Things To Do
in Ahlat
Ahlat is a historic town on the southern shore of Lake Van in Bitlis Province, Turkey. It preserves a remarkable Seljuk-era heritage, notably the Ahlat Seljuk Cemetery with thousands of towering stone sarcophagi. Its hilltop castle and lakeside streets offer dramatic views against a backdrop of mountains and the water.
The town blends centuries of history with warm hospitality, making it a rewarding stop for culture, photography, and quiet lakeside moments.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive before dawn to witness the sun’s first rays illuminating the intricate Seljuk-era tombstones scattered across the field. The cool, golden light casts dramatic shadows, revealing ornate carvings and inscriptions etched in volcanic stone. You’ll feel a profound sense of history as birds chirp and the valley slowly awakens.
Stroll among the centuries-old gravestones with a local guide who shares stories of the Seljuk sultans and craftsmen who built this necropolis. Enjoy a picnic lunch under a shady mulberry tree while admiring the view of nearby Lake Van. Afterward, explore a small workshop where artisans demonstrate traditional stone-carving techniques.
Return to Ahlat town to watch the sunset dye the lake and tombstones pink and orange. Savor a simple meal of pide and ayran at a family-run lokanta by the shore. As dusk falls, let the stars sparkle overhead in an unpolluted sky.
Step into a centuries-old hammam restored with marble and intricate tile work. Steam and scents of eucalyptus open your pores as an attendant performs a gentle exfoliation and foam massage. Afterwards, rinse off in cool marble pools before donning a soft pestemal and sipping rosewater-infused sherbet.
Head to a local tea garden where apple tea is poured into tulip-shaped glasses amid potted geraniums. Join seniors playing backgammon at sunlit tables while tasting fresh simit and lokum. Learn how to brew tea properly from a master çaycı and sample a variety of herbal infusions grown in the nearby highlands.
Gather for dinner at a historic caravanserai converted into a cozy restaurant. Share meze platters of stuffed grape leaves, ezme salad, and grilled köfte beneath lantern-lit archways. End the night with a slow conversation over smoky tea in the courtyard.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🚌Local transportation (day pass or short taxi ride) | $2-8 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1.5-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Seljuk-era heritage and dramatic lakeside scenery
- Warm, welcoming locals and easy day trips to nearby sites
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure outside peak seasons
- Cold winters and occasional road closures due to snow
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Burası nerede?" - Where is this place?
- "Hesap lütfen" - Check, please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Ahlat
Visit one of these nice places.
An expansive hillside cemetery famed for its thousands of stone sarcophagi and intricate bas-reliefs, offering dramatic sunrise or sunset silhouettes.
Ruins perched above the town with sweeping views of Lake Van and the surrounding valley; ideal for panoramic landscape shots.
Open-water vistas and seasonal light create luminous reflections—best during early morning or late afternoon.
Photogenic streets and traditional stone architecture that tell the story of Ahlat's historic neighborhoods.
Food in Ahlat
Ahlat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-roasted lamb dish traditionally prepared in a pit; rich, smoky flavors and commonly found in local kebap houses around Ahlat.
Must-Try!
A rich cheese and butter cornmeal porridge, melted together and served hot with bread.
A festive, fruit-and-nut pudding made from grains, legumes, and dried fruits; often available seasonally at markets and homes.
Delicate Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat, topped with yogurt and paprika oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can taste and buy fresh produce, nuts, dried fruit, and street snacks baked in traditional ovens.
Look for simit, gozleme (savory pancakes), borek, and ayran alongside seasonal fruit stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common greetings are courteous; handshakes are typical for men and women in many contexts; address elders with formal politeness.
Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering mosques; speak softly and avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Turkish hospitality is important—accept invitations when possible and share meals with hosts when invited.
Safety
Tipping in Ahlat
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; leave about 5-10% in cafes and restaurants if service is good. Some larger establishments may include a service charge; check the bill.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool evenings; bring sun protection and hydration. Afternoon dries quickly; enjoy lake breezes and short hikes.
Cold, with occasional snow and icy roads. Pack warm layers, sturdy boots, and goggles for windy lakefront days.
Mild temperatures and blossoming landscapes; great for walking tours and photography along the lake.
Cool days with crisp air and fall colors; ideal for longer walks and quiet town ambiance.
Ahlat at Night
Hiking in Ahlat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills around Adilcevaz town on Lake Van; scenic viewpoints and easy to moderate trails.
Coastal paths along the lake offering water views and birdlife; suitable for easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Ahlat by plane.
The nearest major airport offering domestic and some international flights; drive about 200–260 km to Ahlat depending on route.
Smaller regional airport in the Iğdır area; occasional flights and good for regions east of Ahlat; longer drive via highway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority cultural group in the region, with a long-standing presence in Ahlat.
A significant minority community contributing to local culture and markets.
Historical influences in the region; present in older architecture and ancient sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular spectator sport in the region, with local clubs and informal games in towns and villages.
Common in schools and community centers; weekend games are popular social events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ahlat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find vegetable stews, lentil dishes, yogurt-based sides, and breads widely available; introduce yourself to local cooks and ask for meat-free versions of regional dishes.