Things To Do
in Başkale

Elevated terraces around the town offer sweeping views of the plains, mountains, and the Old Town with its stone architecture.

Golden hour light on weathered shopfronts, colorful spices, grains, and textiles creates textured, intimate scenes.

Winding stone streets, whitewashed houses, and daily village life provide authentic portrait opportunities.

Photograph rivers carving through the landscape with wooden bridges and families working along the banks.

Lamb or beef kebab grilled over charcoal; widely available in local lokantas.

Must-Try!

Tiny Turkish dumplings served with garlic yogurt and tomato sauce.

Slow-cooked meat with onions and spices, often served with flatbread.

Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices; a common meze in many homes and eateries.

Main market offering fresh produce, dairy, herbs, spices, dried fruit, and regional snacks.

Teahouses and stalls serving simit, börek, yogurt, ayran, and other simple, flavorful snacks.

A courteous hello with a handshake; using the right hand is customary. Close friends may greet with a cheek kiss on both sides in informal settings.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Accept hospitality when offered tea or food; it’s a sign of courtesy.

Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional spaces. Ask before taking photos of people or interiors.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or religious sites.

In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if service isn’t included. Tea houses and casual eateries often rely on small tips for the server; tipping at guesthouses is discretionary.

Turkish Lira is the primary method in Başkale. Cash is widely accepted; some larger establishments may take credit/debit cards, especially in towns with more tourism. ATMs are available in the district, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller vendors.

Hot, dry days with cool evenings at higher elevations. Stay hydrated, wear a hat, and seek shade during peak sun. Thunderstorms can roll in later in the day; carry a light rain jacket.

Cold, snowy conditions are common. Roads can be icy; plan for slower travel and warm clothing. Indoor cafés and guesthouses are cozy refuges, and the scenery is starkly beautiful in snow.

Accessible routes that offer panoramic views of the town and surrounding valleys; suitable for day hikes of varying difficulty.

Circular routes through farmland, orchards, and traditional villages, ideal for cultural insight and photography.

The closest major airport serving domestic and limited international routes; access to Başkale by road typically requires several hours depending on road conditions.

Smaller regional airport with limited flights; further from Başkale but usable for connections to major hubs.

The district has a strong Kurdish presence with rich oral traditions and agricultural livelihoods.

A mix of Turkish families and other regional residents contributing to daily life and markets.