Hakkari Travel Guide

Explore Hakkari, an off-the-beaten-path destination in Eastern Turkey. Discover its rich culture, breathtaking natural attractions, delicious cuisine, and much more.


Introduction to Hakkari

Hakkari is a hidden gem in Eastern Turkey, located in the Middle East and Asia. This stunning destination rests upon a high altitude valley, surrounded by majestic mountain ranges. Hakkari is known for its unique blend of culture and geography, characterized by traditional lifestyles, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. This place promises a unique, authentic travel experience for any enthusiastic traveler. In this ultimate travel guide to Hakkari, we will take you on a journey through its top attractions, local culture, and customs, must-try cuisine, safety concerns, transportation options, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Hakkari

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hakkari has a rich cultural heritage and history, reflected in its museums and historical sites. The following are some of the must-visit attractions:

  • Hakkari Museum: A small museum showcasing the history, culture, and traditional lifestyle of the Hakkari people.
  • Zernek Castle: An ancient castle dating back to the 17th century, known for its strategic location and fascinating architecture which comprises both Turkish and Persian styles.
  • Karisik Church: An ancient church from the Ottoman era, boasting stunning frescoes, and mosaics.

Natural Attractions of Hakkari: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hakkari is renowned worldwide for its breathtaking natural wonders, from snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, to vast lake systems. Here are the top natural attractions to explore in Hakkari:

  • Merga Butan Plateau: It’s a large, high altitude plateau known for its scenic beauty and remarkable wildlife. Ideal for hiking and skiing during late October and early May.
  • Hevsel Gardens: A lush valley that is part of Hakkari’s UNESCO world heritage site, an ancient irrigation system featuring terraced paddy fields.
  • Seydansu Waterfall: A huge, mesmerizing waterfall located in Basaksehir, a neighboring region of Hakkari.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hakkari

Hakkari’s rugged terrain and unspoiled natural environment provide an excellent opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the region by hiking, motorcycling, or mountain biking. Some of the top hiking routes in Hakkari include:

  • Daglica Plateau trail: It starts at the entrance of Daglica Valley, showcasing striking landscapes of the Hakkari mountain range.
  • Cilo-Sat Mountains Trek: An exciting opportunity for more experienced trekkers, offering a challenging route to the Cilo-Sat Mountains near the Iranian border.

Best Things to Do in Hakkari: Activities and Tours

From cultural tours to natural expeditions, Hakkari has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to experience in Hakkari:

  • Visit local bazaars: Discover local handicrafts, clothes, and food in the bustling bazaars of Hakkari.
  • Experience the traditional Hayme Ana Festival: Taking place in August, this festival is an event full of dances, folk music, and regional delicacies.
  • Take a jeep tour to the mountains: Explore the stunning mountain ranges of Hakkari by taking a jeep tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hakkari

Here’s a recommended week-long itinerary for Hakkari:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Hakkari Museum, Karisik Church, and Zernek Castle
Day 2 Explore Merga Butan Plateau and trek around the plateau’s edge.
Day 3 Visit the Hevsel Gardens and spend the night here.
Day 4 Enjoy a picnic at Seydansu waterfall and take a dip in the pool.
Day 5 Take a 5-hour jeep tour to the Cilo-Sat Mountains
Day 6 Visit local bazaars in the morning and attend a traditional Hayme Ana Festival held in the afternoon.
Day 7 Relax and get ready for departure on this day.

Food and Drink Scene of Hakkari

Must-Try Dishes

Hakkari’s cuisine is a fusion of Turkish and Kurdish influences, featuring flavorful dishes prepared with locally produced ingredients. Here are some dishes to try:

  • Mantı: A well-known Turkish dish consisting of tiny dumplings served with tomato sauce, yogurt, and some spices.
  • Dolma: Vegetables or grape leaves stuffed with spiced rice and eaten with yogurt.
  • Kebab: Mutton or chicken skewered and grilled over a flame.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Tea is ubiquitous in Turkey and plays an essential role in Turkish culture. Enjoy a cup of tea in the morning or late afternoon with locals.
  • Ayran: Ayran is a salty Turkish yogurt drink usually served with a meal.

Where to Stay in Hakkari: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodations are diverse and cater to different budgets, ranging from hostels to luxury hotels. Here’s a list of places to stay in Hakkari:

  • Dolunay Motel: Simple budget hotel with excellent views.
  • Akmescit Hotel: 4-star hotel featuring an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant.
  • Sahmeran Otel: A chic boutique hotel with a central location.

What to Buy in Hakkari: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Hakkari without taking some local handicrafts and products as souvenirs. Here are some of the items to look out for:

  • Traditional Kilims: Kilims are flat woven carpets traditionally made by Hakkari’s women.
  • Trabzon-style silver jewelry: Trabzon-style silver jewelry features intricate designs and is a favorite among visitors.

Local Culture and Customs of Hakkari

Hakkari locals hold dear their traditional culture and customs. Here are some of the things to keep in mind while visiting:

  • Language: Kurdish is commonly spoken. Some locals may speak Turkish or Arabic.
  • Social norms: Hakkari is a conservative city. Dress modestly, and do not wear revealing clothes.
  • Religion: The majority of people in Hakkari are Sunni Muslims, and show great respect towards their religion.

Best Time to Visit Hakkari

The best time to visit Hakkari is during summer and fall, from late May to October. The weather is temperate and favorable for outdoor activities. Winter can be extremely challenging due to heavy snowfall, avalanches, and low temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hakkari

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture.
  • Dress modestly, especially in religious areas.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Cover your head and remove shoes when entering mosques or religious places.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol publicly.
  • Show too much public affection.
  • Ignore safety concerns when outdoor adventuring.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hakkari

Hakkari is generally safe for travelers. However, it’s best to avoid border areas with Iran, Iraq, and Syria, which are known to have political instability and conflict.

Health in Hakkari

Medical facilities in Hakkari are limited. It is recommended to carry basic medicines and first aid kits when venturing outside the city. Also, avoid drinking tap water and instead buy bottled water.

Getting to Hakkari: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hakkari

The nearest airport to Hakkari is Yüksekova Selahaddin Eyyubi Airport, which operates daily flights to Istanbul.

Bus Stations Near Hakkari

Hakkari Otogar is the main bus station, connecting Hakkari with major cities in Turkey.

Other Options

Driving to Hakkari is possible, but the journey can be challenging due to mountainous terrain and snowfall during winters.

How to Get Around in Hakkari

The best way to get around Hakkari is by taxi, which is affordable and convenient. Local buses and shared taxis are also available, but these are slower and less comfortable.

Where to Go Next from Hakkari: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hakkari’s location makes it a gateway to explore the surrounding regions of Turkey, Iran, and Iraq. Here are some nearby destinations that you may want to explore:

  • Van: Van is located two hours away from Hakkari and is famous for its gorgeous Lake Van and the historical Akdamar Island church.
  • Hasankeyf: Hasankeyf, a small town in southeastern Turkey boasts an impressive citadel with caves that date back to ancient times.
  • Sulaymaniyah: Sulaymaniyah is a city in Iraqi Kurdistan, located around two hours away from Hakkari. One can visit the beautiful Patriarch Ahmet Khani Tomb in Sulaymaniyah.

Conclusion

Hakkari is a hidden gem with rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural attractions, and delicious cuisine. This beautiful place in Eastern Turkey is waiting to be discovered by adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts. Be sure to follow our travel guide and experience the best that Hakkari has to offer.

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