Things To Do
in Başkale
Başkale is a small town located in the Van Province of eastern Turkey. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque mountains and valleys surrounding the town. The town has a rich history, dating back to ancient times, with archaeological sites and historical monuments to explore.
Additionally, Başkale is a peaceful and welcoming community, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Turkish culture and hospitality.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historical Başkale Castle. Enjoy the stunning views and learn about the rich history of the region.
Head to the local bazaar for some authentic shopping experience. Sample some traditional Turkish snacks from nearby vendors.
Relax at a local café and enjoy a delicious dinner. Watch the sunset over the beautiful landscape.
Take a morning hike in the nearby mountains. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Visit the serene waters of the Muradiye Waterfall. Have a picnic by the water while taking in the natural beauty.
Return to Başkale and dine at a restaurant serving local cuisine. Spend the evening chatting with locals at a nearby tea house.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a mix of Turkish and Kurdish influences.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring nature.
- Less touristy compared to other destinations in Turkey, providing an authentic experience.
- Strong sense of community and hospitality among locals.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Access to some services may be challenging, especially for non-locals.
- Potential safety concerns in the region, influenced by geopolitical factors.
- Limited transportation options, making it harder to navigate the area.
- Economic challenges may affect local development and opportunities.
Best Activities in Başkale
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful mountainous terrain around Başkale through hiking trails.
Adventure enthusiasts can attempt to climb Mount Tendürek, which offers a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Observe the diverse bird species in the natural surroundings of Başkale, making it a great spot for bird watching.
Enjoy fishing in the Çoruh River, known for its clear waters and abundance of fish.
Tours
Uncover the best of Başkale with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Başkale
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great spot for capturing photos
Known for its mesmerizing blue color and is a popular spot for photography
Historical building with beautiful architecture, ideal for capturing photos
Food in Başkale
Başkale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stuffed vegetables such as grape leaves or peppers, filled with a delightful mixture of rice, ground meat, and various spices. You can savor authentic dolma at local restaurants like Yaren Restoran.
Must-Try!
A Kurdish version of meatballs, prepared with a blend of minced meat, bulgur, and spices. Try this savory delight at Gözde Cafe & Restaurant, a popular spot in Başkale.
Indulge in succulent kebabs, featuring grilled meats like lamb or chicken, seasoned to perfection. Must-visit places for kebabs include Serhat Et Lokantası and Sevgi Pide.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Başkale's vibrant market offering a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and an array of local snacks and street food like simit (Turkish sesame bread rings), gözleme (thin savory filled flatbread), and mısır (grilled corn on the cob).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Başkale, Turkey, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. It is polite to address people using their titles and to use formal language, especially when interacting with elders or those in positions of authority.
Başkale is a predominantly Muslim community, and it is important to show respect for Islamic customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly when visiting mosques or religious sites, and being mindful of prayer times and religious observances.
Hospitality is highly valued in Başkale, and visitors are often welcomed with warmth and generosity. It is customary to accept offers of food and drink, and to express gratitude for the hospitality shown to you.
Safety
Tipping in Başkale
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Başkale, Turkey. It is not expected in restaurants or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip would be appreciated.
In Başkale, cash is the primary method of payment. Credit or debit cards may not be widely accepted especially in smaller establishments, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting Başkale.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Başkale is in spring, from April to June. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and nature comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the beautiful landscapes.
Summer in Başkale, from July to September, brings warm weather and longer daylight hours, perfect for experiencing the stunning natural beauty of the region. It's a great time for trekking, camping, and enjoying the local cultural events and festivals.
Autumn, from October to November, is another great time to visit Başkale. The weather is cool and crisp, and the fall foliage creates a picturesque setting. It's an excellent time for scenic drives, bird watching, and soaking in the autumn colors.
Winter, from December to March, can be cold in Başkale, with snow-covered landscapes offering a unique beauty. It's a quieter time in terms of tourism, but perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and those who enjoy a peaceful, snowy retreat.
Başkale at Night
Hiking in Başkale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful lake surrounded by lush forests, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
A mountain range offering a variety of trails with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
A scenic plateau with numerous hiking paths and opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.
An elevated hiking destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Challenging hiking routes that provide breathtaking views and a chance to witness the area's rich cultural history.
Aiports
How to reach Başkale by plane.
The nearest airport, located approximately 80 kilometers from Başkale, serving domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 160 kilometers from Başkale, in Iraq, this airport offers a wider range of international flights.
Located about 200 kilometers away, this airport provides both domestic and a few international connections.
Approximately 230 kilometers from Başkale, this airport serves domestic flights and some seasonal international routes.
Around 200 kilometers from Başkale, this airport primarily handles domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Başkale, with a significant cultural influence in the region.
A notable ethnic minority in the area, contributing to the cultural mosaic of Başkale.
A smaller demographic group present in Başkale, adding to the region's diversity.
Includes various smaller groups contributing to the local demographic landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Başkale, with many local teams and passionate fans supporting the game.
Traditional Turkish wrestling has a significant following, with local competitions and events celebrated in the region.
Basketball has gained popularity in recent years, with local schools and clubs promoting the sport among youth.
Volleyball is popular among both men and women, often played in schools and recreational facilities.
Track and field events are encouraged in schools, fostering a competitive spirit in various athletic disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Başkale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the local cuisine predominantly features meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian alternatives like stuffed vine leaves, vegetable kebabs, mezze platters, and fresh salads. Additionally, some eateries are willing to prepare custom vegan dishes upon request.
Individuals seeking gluten-free options can enjoy dishes like grilled meats, traditional rice-based pilafs, and certain mezze items. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly to ensure a satisfying dining experience.