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Eastern Anatolia: A Natural and Historical Wonderland
Eastern Anatolia, home to the majestic Mount Ağrı and Lake Van, is Turkey’s easternmost region, offering breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into a simpler way of life. This vast area resembles an immense national park, filled with spectacular views, lush natural foliage, and archaeological treasures. It is also renowned for its stunning ski resorts and unique geographical features.
The Region’s High Peaks and Volcanic Heritage
The sparsely populated Eastern Anatolian Region is dominated by high mountains, with peaks averaging over 3,000 meters. Many of these peaks are extinct volcanoes, evidenced by the traces of lava that confirm their relatively recent activity. Among these, Mount Ağrı (also known as Mount Ararat) stands out, steeped in legend as the supposed resting place of Noah’s Ark.
Human Settlements and Fertile Valleys
Traditionally, human settlements in Eastern Anatolia have concentrated in fertile valleys like the Muş Valley, located to the west of Lake Van, and along the productive river basins. These areas support agriculture and life, providing a stark contrast to the rugged northern highlands, craggy mountains, and barren expanses of the eastern region, which are inhospitable for human habitation.
Escape to Eastern Anatolia
For those seeking an escape from the modern, fast-paced life of western Turkey, Eastern Anatolia offers a journey back in time. With its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and tranquil beauty, this region promises an unforgettable experience.
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Ancient City of Ani and Its Ruins (Kars):
Located on the Silk Road, the ancient city of Ani stands out with its remarkable examples of religious, administrative, military, and civil architecture. Situated 42 km from the city center of Kars, within the borders of Ocaklı Village, Ani is positioned west of the Arpaçay River, which forms the Turkey-Armenia border. Known as one of Eastern Anatolia’s largest ancient sites, Ani is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see for visitors. Its walls, cathedral, mosque, caravanserai, and bridges reflect the city’s historical significance, while the remnants of a Zoroastrian temple add to its cultural depth.
Akdamar Church (Van):
Located on Akdamar Island, the second-largest island in Lake Van, Akdamar Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Cross, is a stunning example of medieval Armenian Apostolic architecture. Built during the Vaspurakan Kingdom era, this church served as both a religious and cultural hub. Its intricate stonework and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Van.
Ishak Pasha Palace (Ağrı):
Situated in Doğubayazıt, Ishak Pasha Palace is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture from the 17th century. Construction began in the late 17th century and was completed in the late 18th century. Combining Ottoman, Seljuk, and Persian influences, the palace is notable for its harem section and advanced central heating system, reflecting the technological sophistication of its era.
Tushpa/Van Fortress, Mound, and Old City (Van):
The ancient capital of the Urartu Kingdom, Tushpa, is located just west of modern Van, on the eastern shores of Lake Van. Dating back to the 9th century BCE, the site showcases the power and culture of the Urartians. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a 5,000-year-old settlement at the nearby mound and 800 years of urban life in the Old City. These findings reflect the rich history of human settlement and activity in the area.
Ahlat Tombstones (Bitlis):
Situated along the shores of Lake Van, Ahlat is home to Seljuk-era tombstones, renowned for their intricate designs and historical significance. Dating back to the 12th and 15th centuries, these tombstones are some of the finest examples of Islamic funerary art. Notable cemeteries include Harabe City, Taht’ı Süleyman, Kırklar, and Kale Cemeteries.
Arslantepe Mound (Malatya):
Located in the heart of the fertile Malatya Plain, Arslantepe Mound dates back to the Chalcolithic period around 5000 BCE. It showcases strong connections with the Mesopotamian world during its early history. Later, during the Bronze Age and Hittite periods, significant cultural and administrative shifts occurred. The remains of a palace uncovered here are displayed as an open-air museum, with artifacts exhibited at the Malatya Museum.
Twin Minaret Madrasa (Erzurum):
A symbol of Erzurum, the Twin Minaret Madrasa is an exceptional example of Seljuk stonework. Built in the late 13th century, the madrasa is noted for its ornate crown gate, featuring botanical motifs and iconic Seljuk symbols like the double-headed eagle and tree of life. Its architectural and decorative elements make it a masterpiece of Anatolian Seljuk art.
Mama Hatun Caravanserai (Erzincan):
Commissioned by Saltukid ruler Mama Hatun in the 12th century, the Mama Hatun Caravanserai is one of Erzincan’s most significant historical structures. Built from yellow cut stone, it reflects the architectural elegance of the Seljuk period.
Arak Monastery (Muş):
Dating back 1,500 years, Arak Monastery is a remarkable example of Roman and medieval Armenian architecture. Initially built in the 11th century, it served as a center of learning in the 12th and 13th centuries. Over time, the monastery underwent expansions and restorations, making it one of Muş’s most iconic landmarks.
Mazgirt Castle (Tunceli):
Mazgirt Castle, an Urartian relic, is a must-visit historical site in Tunceli. Known for its strategic location and panoramic views, the castle has withstood the test of time and offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich past.
Harput Castle (Elazığ):
Harput Castle, also known as the Milk Castle, was built by the Urartians in the 8th century BCE. The name "Milk Castle" stems from a legend that milk was used in the construction due to a water shortage. Located on a steep slope, the castle provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Floating Islands (Bingöl):
The Floating Islands in Bingöl are a natural wonder, consisting of three independently moving islands on a crater lake surrounded by mountains. Located just 4.5 km from the Bingöl-Solhan road, these islands are adorned with ash trees, creating a visually stunning and unique landscape.
Harmandöven Ejder Caravanserai (Iğdır):
This caravanserai, built by Sürmari Emir Şerafettin Ejder Bey during the Seljuk period in the 13th century, served as a critical stop on the Batumi-Tebriz Silk Road route. Its historical significance and architectural design make it an important heritage site.
Cilo-Sat Mountains National Park (Hakkari):
Located in the Yüksekova district, the Cilo-Sat Mountains National Park is home to glacial lakes, peaks, and a rich variety of wildlife. Ideal for mountaineering, skiing, and eco-tourism, the park offers trails with varying difficulty levels and stunning natural landscapes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and researchers alike.
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Cağ Kebab in Erzurum
Originating from Erzurum, Cağ Kebab is a mouthwatering dish made with lamb marinated in onions, salt, and pepper for 12 hours. The meat is then skewered on a large horizontal rod and cooked over a wood fire.
The usta (master chef) skillfully stacks tender lamb pieces onto skewers. This flavorful kebab is traditionally enjoyed directly from the skewer or wrapped in warm, freshly baked lavaş flatbread.
Apricot in Malatya
Known as the world’s leading apricot producer, Malatya owes its exceptional apricots to the fertile soil enriched by the Euphrates River. These apricots are sun-dried without sulphur and processed using traditional methods in family-run orchards.
Malatya apricots are also turned into delicious treats, such as marzipan-like pastes or chocolate-coated delicacies, making them a favorite both domestically and internationally.
White Honey in Ağrı
Situated at an altitude of 1,650 meters, Ağrı offers ideal conditions for beekeeping. With a long season and rich flora featuring abundant local flowers, the honey produced here is renowned for its unique flavor and texture. The distinct characteristics of Ağrı honey make it a prized product across Turkey.
Öküzgözü and Boğazkere Grapes in Elazığ
Elazığ is home to around 60 grape varieties, but the Öküzgözü and Boğazkere grapes are the most famous. These grapes are not only consumed as fruit but are also integral to wine production, with their wines loved across the country. Additionally, they are used to create traditional treats like orcik and pestil, hallmarks of Elazığ’s culinary heritage.
Local Breakfast in Van
Famous for its rich breakfast culture, Van offers delicacies such as otlu peynir, a crumbly cheese infused with wild garlic, and traditional dishes like Van çöreği (special pastry), murtuğa (eggs with flour and butter), and kavut (an ancient type of halva).
For an authentic experience, venture into the city’s local breakfast houses, where you can savor these regional specialties at their finest.
Kaşar Cheese in Kars
Kaşar cheese, particularly the aged version known as eski kaşar, is a staple in Kars. With a tangy, buttery flavor, it complements meals and pairs perfectly with breakfast spreads. Made primarily from cow’s milk, this cheese develops peppery notes when aged for over six months, making it a favorite for all occasions.
Tulum Cheese in Erzincan
Erzincan Tulum Cheese is a delicacy aged in a goat or sheepskin sack, giving it a pungent, soft, and crumbly texture. Often served as an appetizer, it is best enjoyed with walnuts, sweet butter, and freshly baked lavaş flatbread, providing a rich start before a hearty meal of spicy kebabs.
Kadayıf Dolması in Erzurum
Kadayıf Dolması, a dessert from Erzurum, consists of thin shreds of filo dough filled with ground nuts like pistachios or walnuts. The rolls are dipped in eggs, fried, and soaked in lemon-infused sugar syrup. Often garnished with clotted cream (kaymak) and ground nuts, this sweet treat is a true delight.
Çorti and Harse in Bitlis
For a taste of Bitlis, try two iconic dishes: Çorti and Harse.
- Çorti: A flavorful dish made by boiling fatty meat and bones in pickled cabbage juice.
- Harse: Combines roasted chicken breast with wheat, cooked in a tandoor oven, and mixed into a thick, hearty paste.
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Murat River
The Murat River, also known as the Eastern Euphrates, is a significant tributary of the Euphrates River. Known in ancient times as Arsanias by the Greeks and Romans, it originates near Mount Ararat, north of Lake Van, in eastern Turkey. The river flows westward for 722 km through mountainous terrain. Before the Keban Dam was built, the Murat River merged with the Karasu River about 10 km north of the dam site. Today, it feeds into the reservoir created by the Keban Dam, which, when completed in 1974, became Turkey’s largest dam and a vital source of hydroelectric power.
The harsh winters in the region, with abundant snowfall, sustain the river year-round. As the snow gradually melts, it continuously feeds the Murat River, aided by numerous springs in the surrounding highlands. This unique geography ensures a steady and powerful flow.
Aras River
The Aras River, which begins in Turkey, flows along the border between Turkey and Armenia. Spanning 1,072 km in total length, 548 km of the river runs through Turkish territory, covering a basin area of 102,000 square kilometers. Historically, the Aras has often served as a natural border between nations.
In 2006, a bird research and education center was established in the Aras Valley, in the Tuzluca district of Iğdır Province. Managed by KuzeyDoğa, this site is one of Turkey’s two active bird ringing stations, contributing to wildlife conservation and research.
Karasu River
The Karasu River (meaning “Black Water” in Turkish), also called the Western Euphrates, is one of the two main sources of the Euphrates. Originating in Dumlu Dağ in Erzurum Province, the river flows for about 450 km, draining the plains around Erzurum before merging with the Murat River in Elazığ’s Keban district, forming the Euphrates.
Sarıkamış - Allahuekber Mountains National Park (Kars and Erzurum)
Located across Kars and Erzurum provinces in eastern Anatolia, the Sarıkamış - Allahuekber Mountains National Park holds historical significance as the site where 90,000 soldiers perished in freezing conditions during World War I in 1914.
The area is also famous for the Sarıkamış Ski Center, located at an altitude of 2,500 meters. Its crystal snow and pine-covered slopes make it a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The ski center features a 12-kilometer-long runway divided into five stages, offering excellent conditions for skiers.
Munzur Valley National Park in Tunceli
Spanning approximately 42,000 hectares in the province of Tunceli, the Munzur Valley National Park is a haven of natural beauty and biodiversity. Situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters, the park boasts one of Anatolia’s richest floras, as well as endemic fauna.
Visitors can explore glacial lakes, canyons, and waterfalls, including the stunning Kırk Merdiven Waterfall on the slopes of the Munzur Mountains, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Tulips in Muş
The tulip, native to Muş, is part of the lily family, known for its long leaves and bright red flowers. Tulip cultivation requires patience, as it takes three to six years for flowers to grow from seeds. For this reason, tulip fields are carefully preserved. Each year, Muş celebrates the Tulip Festival on April 29-30, an event that has been held annually since 2000.
Balık Lake (Fish Lake) in Ağrı
Located on volcanic terrain in the Taşlıçay district, Balık Lake is Turkey’s highest-altitude lake at 2,250 meters above sea level. Famous for its fresh water and trout, the lake freezes completely during winter, creating an ideal setting for winter sports. In summer, visitors can enjoy trekking around the lake or relaxing on its southern beach, which offers facilities for tourists.
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Mount Ararat (Ağrı Dağı) in Ağrı
Mount Ararat (Ağrı Dağı), at an elevation of 5,137 meters, is the highest peak in Turkey and Europe. Rising dramatically above the eastern Turkish plain, it offers breathtaking views and is visible from vast distances. Declared a national park in 2004, Mount Ararat is crowned with snow year-round and features glaciers, making it the largest permanent ice mass in Turkey.
This magnificent mountain consists of two volcanic cones: Greater Ağrı, the highest peak in Turkey, and Little Ağrı, with an elevation of 3,896 meters. The massif spans about 35 kilometers at its base.
Mount Ararat is steeped in legend, believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark. First climbed in 1829 by Friedrich Parrot and Khachatur Abovian, it has long captivated explorers, despite Marco Polo’s claim that it was “impossible to climb.”
Lake Van in Van and Bitlis
Located between Van and Bitlis provinces, Lake Van is a volcanic lake formed by the eruption of Mount Nemrut. The lake is home to four islands—Adır, Akdamar, Kuş, and Çarpanak—which attract visitors with their historical significance and were declared an archaeological site in 1990.
Lake Van holds the title of the largest saline soda lake in Turkey and the largest soda lake on Earth. While its high alkalinity limits biodiversity, the lake is home to the pearl mullet fish. Additionally, the Van Fortress near the lake is a historical site containing Urartian temples, Persian inscriptions, and Ottoman mosques.
Palandöken Ski Center in Erzurum
Situated just six kilometers from Erzurum city center, Palandöken Ski Center is one of Turkey’s premier winter sports destinations. At an altitude of 1,950 meters, it boasts the country’s longest ski run and exceptional snow quality, making it a favorite among expert skiers.
Palandöken is one of the closest ski resorts to an airport, located just a five-minute drive from landing. The slopes, coated in fine snow from November to June, offer clear weather and stunning landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable skiing experience.
Karanlık Canyon (Dark Canyon) in Erzincan
Karanlık Canyon, located in Erzincan’s Kemaliye district, is a 25-kilometer-long gorge formed by the Karasu River in the Munzur Mountains. With a depth of 1,000 meters and steep rocky walls, the canyon offers dramatic scenery.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as rock climbing and boat rides, making it a popular destination for adventurers.
Saklıkapı Canyon in Elazığ
Discovered by chance, Saklıkapı Canyon runs for 2.5 kilometers between the Baskil and Keban districts of Elazığ. With heights ranging from 20 to 200 meters, the canyon is a natural wonder characterized by karstic topography and diverse plant life.
Nearby, the Karaleylek Canyon features steep cliffs, karstic caves, and historical cave settlements, adding to the area’s allure.
Lake Çıldır in Ardahan
Lake Çıldır, located 44 kilometers from Ardahan city center, covers an area of 123 square kilometers at an altitude of 1,959 meters. During winter, the lake freezes completely, allowing visitors to walk, bike, or ride horses on the ice. Local fishermen carve through the ice to catch fresh fish, which is served at nearby restaurants.
Lake Nemrut in Bitlis
Perched at an altitude of 2,800 meters on Mount Nemrut, Lake Nemrut is the second-largest crater lake in the world and the largest in Turkey. Spanning 15 square kilometers, this crescent-shaped freshwater lake is surrounded by picturesque camping spots and lush landscapes.
Mount Cilo in Hakkari
Mount Cilo, at 4,135 meters, is Turkey’s second-highest mountain. Located in the Yüksekova district of Hakkari, the mountain is part of the southeastern Taurus Mountains and is permanently covered with snow and ice. The nearby Uludoruk Glacier adds to the region’s unique beauty.
The area is also home to prehistoric rock paintings depicting tulips, animals, and symbolic figures, offering a glimpse into ancient life.
Munzur Mountains in Tunceli
Rising to an altitude of 3,000 meters, the Munzur Mountains are located in Tunceli’s Ovacık district. Known for their glacial lakes and lush green plateaus, the mountains attract nature lovers who explore trails leading to highlands such as Teng, Sor, and Kormuskan.
Mount Süphan in Ağrı, Bitlis, and Muş
Mount Süphan, Turkey’s third-highest mountain, is a composite volcano located near Lake Van. The mountain, with a summit at 4,058 meters, features lava mounds and breathtaking views. Visitors wishing to climb Mount Süphan must obtain permission from local authorities in Adilcevaz.
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Tortum Waterfall, Erzurum
Tortum Waterfall is one of Turkey’s tallest waterfalls, located at the end of Lake Tortum in Erzurum. The water cascades from a height of approximately 48 meters, creating rainbows at the top and forming a large pond below.
Visitors can enjoy the surrounding picnic area and a viewing terrace. For the adventurous, stone steps lead down to the base of the waterfall, allowing you to walk underneath the cascading water—just be prepared to get soaked!
Muradiye Waterfall, Van
Located in the Muradiye district of Van, Muradiye Waterfall pours from Bend-i Mahi Creek, with waters originating from Mount Tendürek, a shield volcano. Standing at a height of 15 meters, the waterfall features a picturesque pedestrian bridge.
In winter, the frozen waterfall creates a view reminiscent of the Pamukkale travertines, making it a serene and unique destination year-round.
Kırk Merdiven Waterfall, Tunceli
The Kırk Merdiven Waterfall, located in the Ovacık district of Tunceli, is a series of cascading waterfalls flowing through a narrow valley on the slopes of the Munzur Mountains. The name, meaning “forty stairs,” reflects the waterfall’s layered appearance.
Reaching the site requires a two-hour hike, during which visitors can encounter endemic plants and stunning natural scenery.
Ore Waterfall, Hakkari
Ore Waterfall in Hakkari is one of the region’s most striking natural wonders, falling from a height of 25 meters. During spring, the water volume increases significantly, while in winter, the frozen waterfall creates a dramatic and beautiful sight.
The steep cliffs surrounding the area provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Girlevik Waterfalls, Erzincan
Located in Çağlayan, southeast of Erzincan, the Girlevik Waterfalls are a natural retreat known for their cool microclimate. The waterfalls descend from the Kalecik village on the slopes of the Munzur Mountains and feature water flows from nine separate points over three stages, dropping from a height of 40 meters.
In winter, the waterfalls freeze, forming stunning ice stalactites, making the area a haven for ice climbers.
Caucasian Folk Music in Kars
The province of Kars boasts a rich folklore shaped by heavy Caucasian migration before and after World War I. Caucasian Folk Dances hold a prominent place in the local culture, performed either as individual solos or group performances.
The tradition of minstrelsy (aşıklık), included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2009, blends the sounds of the saz (a string instrument) with poetic storytelling. Events featuring minstrel competitions add to the vibrant cultural tapestry of Kars.
Cittaslow Ahlat in Bitlis
The historical town of Ahlat, located northwest of Lake Van, is known for its grand Seljuk tombstones, which stand as a testament to its rich history. Ahlat has served as a bridge between Eastern and Western civilizations, playing a significant role in the migration of Turks from Central Asia to Anatolia.
The town’s fertile lands, warm climate, and abundant water resources have historically made it a vital center for settlement and cultural exchange.
Cittaslow Uzundere in Erzurum
Uzundere, a peaceful town in Erzurum province, lies at the crossroads of the Black Sea and Eastern Anatolia regions. This quiet haven is rich in natural beauty and steeped in history, with traces of numerous civilizations.
Interestingly, Uzundere experiences a Mediterranean-like climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, rainy winters. The region is agriculturally productive, and parts of it remain green even during the colder months. The locals primarily rely on agriculture and animal husbandry for their livelihood.
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Take a Ferry to Visit Akdamar Church
The Church of the Holy Cross (Akdamar Church), located on Akdamar Island, the second-largest of the four islands in Lake Van, is a medieval Armenian Apostolic cathedral. Built as a palatine church for the rulers of the Kingdom of Vaspurakan, the church’s intricate design and historical significance make it a must-visit destination.
Walk on Ice at Lake Çıldır
In the winter months, Lake Çıldır in Ardahan transforms into a frozen wonderland, with ice covering its surface for nearly eight months of the year. Visitors can walk, bike, or even ride horses on the frozen lake. Local fishermen break the ice to catch fresh fish, which can be enjoyed at nearby restaurants.
Be Mesmerized by the Architecture of Twin Minaret Madrasah
The Twin Minaret Madrasa (Çifte Minareli Medrese), a stunning example of Seljuk architecture, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Erzurum. Built in the late 13th century, the crown door (Taç Kapı) features intricate stone decorations with herbal motifs, showcasing the artistic excellence of the Seljuk era.
Feel the Serenity in Cittaslow Cities
Two Cittaslow cities in Eastern Turkey—Ahlat in Bitlis and Uzundere in Erzurum—offer peaceful retreats. Ahlat, known for its Seljuk tombstones, is a historical gem located northwest of Lake Van. Uzundere, rich in natural beauty and history, is a tranquil town situated on the border between the Black Sea and Eastern Anatolia regions.
Enjoy the Unforgettable Van Breakfast
Van’s breakfast is celebrated as one of the richest in Turkey. Local restaurants serve delicacies like otlu peynir (cheese spiked with wild garlic), Van çöreği (a special pastry), murtuğa (eggs with flour and butter), and kavut (a traditional halva). For an authentic experience, savor these regional dishes in their hometown.
Accelerate at Palandöken Ski Center
Located just six kilometers from Erzurum city center, Palandöken Ski Center boasts the longest ski run in Turkey and excellent snow quality. Its proximity to the airport makes it an ideal winter sports destination. With clear weather and fine snow from November to June, it’s a paradise for skiing enthusiasts.
Hike Around Tortum Waterfall
Tortum Waterfall, one of Turkey’s tallest waterfalls, is located in Erzurum at the end of Lake Tortum. The 48-meter cascade forms a large pond and rainbows at its base, making it a popular spot for visitors. The site also features a viewing terrace and picnic area, with stone steps leading down to the base of the waterfall.
Reach the Highest Peak of Europe
Mount Ağrı (Ararat), standing at 5,137 meters, is the highest point in both Turkey and Europe. Its snow-capped summit, covered with glaciers, dominates the eastern Turkish plain. The mountain is steeped in legend, believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark. The first recorded ascent was made in 1829 by Friedrich Parrot, Khachatur Abovian, and their team.
Visit the Ancient City of Ani
Located 42 kilometers from Kars, the Ancient City of Ani is a former Silk Road trading hub. This ancient city, on the Arpaçay River, showcases religious, military, and civil architectural marvels, reflecting the region’s rich history. Its ruins, spread across the Turkish-Armenian border, offer a glimpse into a vibrant past.
Taste the Unique Cheeses
- Kaşar Cheese: Known as eski kaşar when aged, this tangy and buttery cheese from Kars pairs well with any meal. After six months of aging, it develops a peppery flavor that enhances its versatility.
- Erzincan Tulum Cheese: A specialty from Erzincan, this soft, crumbly cheese is aged in goat or sheepskin sacks. Served with walnuts and lavash flatbread, it’s a delicious appetizer before hearty meals.
