Azmar Mountain rises directly behind Sulaymaniyah to the northeast, its forested slopes visible from much of the city. The road to the summit (or near it — the road ends at a communications installation short of the top) is one of the most popular escapes from the urban heat, especially in summer when families drive up to eat, drink tea, and enjoy the cooler air under the trees.
The views from the upper slopes are excellent: the city below, the plains of the Sulaymaniyah basin, and on clear days the line of higher mountains toward the Iranian border. The drive takes about 45 minutes from central Sulaymaniyah. There are tea houses and small restaurants along the road; the highest ones are the most popular and are busiest Friday evenings.
In spring, the lower slopes are covered in wildflowers and the hillsides are dotted with Kurdish families picnicking among the oak trees. This is the most pleasant time to come; summer is busier and dustier.