Southeastern Anatolia Travel Guide

Discover the best cultural and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, activities and tours, food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local customs and traditions, safety and health, and transportation options in Southeastern Anatolia.


Introduction to Southeastern Anatolia

Southeastern Anatolia, also known as Turkish Kurdistan, is an underrated destination in Turkey that is culturally and historically rich, surrounded by spectacular landscapes, and home to a diverse and hospitable population. The region comprises of the provinces of Adıyaman, Batman, Diyarbakır, Gaziantep, Mardin, Şanlıurfa, Siirt, and Şırnak, and is considered one of the cradles of civilization, where the oldest known civilizations arose over ten thousand years ago.

List of Places to Visit in Southeastern Anatolia

If you are wondering where to start exploring Southeastern Anatolia, here is a list of the top attractions that are worth visiting:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Diyarbakır Fortress and Walls: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient city walls that date back to the Roman era, are the longest and most well-preserved in the world.
  • Göbekli Tepe: The world’s oldest temple, and one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, which dates back to 10,000 BC.
  • Mount Nemrut: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, that houses the majestic statues of the gods of the Hellenistic period on its peak, surrounded by stunning views of the mountains and lakes.
  • Mardin: A charming ancient city, with narrow streets, towering mosques, and monasteries, that has been inhabited since the Bronze Age.
  • Sanliurfa: A sacred city known as the “Prophet Job’s town,” has been inhabited since the Neolithic period and holds a rich history and tradition.

Natural Attractions of Southeastern Anatolia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Harran: The fertile plains of Harran are where many biblical stories transpired, including the birthplace of the prophet Abraham.
  • Halfeti: A picturesque town on the banks of the Euphrates River that is famous for its unique submerged city.
  • Lake Van: The largest lake in Turkey, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and home to a unique species of fish.
  • Şanlıurfa Balıklı Göl: The sacred pool where the legend has it that King Nimrod drowned Abraham before being swallowed by fish, now a popular place to visit and pray.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeastern Anatolia

Southeastern Anatolia is a natural paradise, with a diverse range of terrains, from the plains, rivers, and lakes to the mountains and valleys, all offering exciting hiking and biking trails for nature lovers. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • Mount Nemrut Trek: A challenging two-day trekking route to the top of the mountain, that reveals the stunning beauty of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kizilirmak Delta Bird Paradise: A biking route of stunning natural beauty, where you can watch a diverse range of bird species.
  • Kahta Canyon: A picturesque valley divided by the river Euphrates, with refreshing waterfalls and crystal clear waters for a refreshing swim.

Best Things to Do in Southeastern Anatolia: Activities and Tours

Apart from the primary attractions and hiking/biking opportunities, there are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Southeastern Anatolia, including:

  • Hot Air Balloon: Take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia for a breathtaking view of the region.
  • Food Tours: Discover the local culinary delights, such as kebab, baklava, and Gaziantep pistachios, on a food tour of the region’s vibrant cities.
  • Train Rides: Take a nostalgic and scenic train ride through the Taurus Mountains, from Adana to Mersin.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southeastern Anatolia

To make the most of your time in Southeastern Anatolia, here is an itinerary that you can follow for a week-long trip:

Day Destination
1 Gaziantep
2 Şanlıurfa
3 Harran
4 Diyarbakır
5 Mardin
6 Mount Nemrut
7 Adıyaman

Food and Drink Scene of Southeastern Anatolia

The food and drink scene in Southeastern Anatolia is one of the most vibrant in the country, with a range of unique and authentic dishes and beverages that you must try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lahmacun: A thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced lamb, herbs, and spices, commonly known as “Turkish Pizza.”
  • Adana Kebab: A grilled skewer of minced beef, seasoned with chili pepper flakes, and tomato sauce, usually served with rice or pita bread.
  • Urfa Kebab: A juicy grilled lamb kebab, covered in Urfa pepper and served with roasted vegetables.
  • Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layered filo dough, filled with nuts and syrup or honey.

Local Beverages

  • Şıra: A refreshing drink made from fermented grape juice, served cold or hot, and often consumed during religious holidays.
  • Aryan: A yogurt-based drink mixed with salt or herbs, a perfect thirst quencher in hot weather.
  • Gaziantep Coffee: Strong, finely ground coffee, infused with cardamom, served with water and a small glass of sherbet to balance the bitterness.

Where to Stay in Southeastern Anatolia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southeastern Anatolia has an excellent variety of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels or cozy guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Gaziantep: A well-located, modern hotel, with comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar with a view.
  • Manici Hotel Sanliurfa: A traditional style boutique hotel located in the city center, with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
  • Beyaz Konak Hotel Diyarbakır: A restored Ottoman mansion turned hotel, in the heart of Diyarbakır, with excellent breakfast and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Southeastern Anatolia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southeastern Anatolia is famous for its diverse handicrafts and delicious food products, meaning you can find an abundance of souvenirs and local products to purchase on your travels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Copperware: From pots and pans to trays and decorative items, copperware is a famous handicraft in Gaziantep, and it makes the perfect souvenir or gift.
  • Kilim Rugs: A handmade rug adorned with intricate patterns, made in Mardin, is a unique souvenir that you won’t find anywhere else.
  • Spices and Sweets: From pistachios to baklava, and rose water to bezoar stones, Southeastern Anatolia has a unique variety of ingredients and delicacies that make perfect souvenirs for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Southeastern Anatolia

Southeastern Anatolia is a culturally rich and diverse region, home to dozens of ethnic groups and languages, each with its own customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Hospitality: The people of Southeastern Anatolia are known for their hospitality and generosity towards guests, so expect to be welcomed warmly and with plenty of food and drink.
  • Dress Code: Although there are no strict dress codes in Southeastern Anatolia, it is advisable to dress modestly when visiting mosques, holy sites, or rural areas.
  • Respect for Elders: Elders are highly respected in Southeastern Anatolia, and it’s customary to greet them with a kiss on the hand or cheek.

Best Time to Visit Southeastern Anatolia

The best time to visit Southeastern Anatolia is from April to June or from September to November, when the temperatures are mild, and the landscapes are lush and green. However, keep in mind that summers can be hot and dry, and winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southeastern Anatolia

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink scene.
  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques, holy sites, or rural areas.
  • Engage with locals and learn about their culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful towards local customs or taboos.
  • Assume that everyone speaks English, be prepared to communicate through gestures if you don’t speak Turkish.
  • Inquire about politics or sensitive topics unless in secure settings.

Safety and Health

Southeastern Anatolia is generally safe and hospitable towards tourists, but like any other destination, it’s essential to take precautions and be aware of any potential risks or hazards.

Safety in Southeastern Anatolia

  • Be respectful of local customs and taboos.
  • Stay vigilant around border areas and political hotspots.
  • Be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Southeastern Anatolia

  • Check with your doctor before traveling regarding any recommended vaccinations or medications.
  • Watch out for contaminated food or water, and avoid raw vegetables or undercooked meat when unsure about their safety.

Getting to Southeastern Anatolia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southeastern Anatolia is easily accessible, with several transportation options, including planes, buses, and trains.

Airports Near Southeastern Anatolia

  • Gaziantep Airport (GZT)
  • Diyarbakır Airport (DIY)

Bus Stations Near Southeastern Anatolia

  • Diyarbakir Bus Station
  • Gaziantep Bus Station

Other Options

  • Trains are also available, and the Taurus Express connects Istanbul with Adana and Mersin.

How to Get Around in Southeastern Anatolia

Once you have reached Southeastern Anatolia, there are several ways to get around, including:

  • Buses and minibusses: The most affordable and convenient way to travel within the region, connecting cities, and smaller towns.
  • Private cars or taxis: A more comfortable, but more expensive way to travel around the region.
  • Renting bikes: In cities or towns, renting a bike can be a great way to explore the local sights and landscapes.

Where to Go Next from Southeastern Anatolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southeastern Anatolia is conveniently located near other popular Turkish destinations, such as Cappadocia, Istanbul, and Antalya, making it an excellent starting point or stopover in your travels.

Conclusion

Southeastern Anatolia is a destination that has it all: a rich history and culture, breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, friendly people, and plenty of activities and experiences to keep you entertained. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Southeastern Anatolia is waiting to be explored and discovered. So, pack your bags and head towards the land of the great gods and ancient civilizations!

One of the best views in Southeastern Anatolia is no longer: Hasankeyf was swallowed by the Ilısu Dam on the Tigris in 2020 One of the best views in Southeastern Anatolia is no longer: Hasankeyf was swallowed by the Ilısu Dam on the Tigris in 2020 A Yazidi temple in the abandoned village of Mağara (Kiwex) near İdil, Tur Abdin A Yazidi temple in the abandoned village of Mağara (Kiwex) near İdil, Tur Abdin A bilingual sign featuring Syriac, rendered in its unique cursive alphabet, and Turkish ( A bilingual sign featuring Syriac, rendered in its unique cursive alphabet, and Turkish ("''silence please!''", in Deyrülzafaran Monastery, Mardin) From the exhibition of the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Gaziantep From the exhibition of the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Gaziantep Artifacts of traditional life in the courtyard of a 'beehive house', Harran Artifacts of traditional life in the courtyard of a 'beehive house', Harran Mor Şarbel, a Syriac Orthodox church in Midyat Mor Şarbel, a Syriac Orthodox church in Midyat The Hevsel Gardens, a part of a World Heritage site, along the Tigris in Diyarbakır The Hevsel Gardens, a part of a World Heritage site, along the Tigris in Diyarbakır Freshly harvested pistachios, Gaziantep Freshly harvested pistachios, Gaziantep


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    Siirt