Things To Do
in Çıldır
Çıldır is a small town located in north-eastern Turkey, near the border with Georgia. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Çıldır, which is the second largest freshwater lake in the Eastern Anatolia region. Çıldır is known for its stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows surrounding the lake.
The town is a popular destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the serene surroundings.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike around Çıldır Lake, embracing the stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere. Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy by the water's edge.
Visit the local village of Çıldır to explore traditional Turkish architecture and culture. You can also interact with locals and learn about their way of life.
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a lakeside restaurant, trying local delicacies like fresh fish. As the sun sets, take a moment to appreciate the tranquil waters of the lake.
Kick off your day with a kayaking session on Çıldır Lake, relishing the peaceful waters and surrounding nature. It's a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.
Join a local fishing tour for a chance to catch your own fish and learn fishing techniques from experienced locals. It’s a fun, engaging activity that connects you with nature.
Savor the fruits of your labor with a BBQ dinner at your accommodation, featuring the fish you caught earlier. Share stories with fellow travelers under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage
- Beautiful natural landscapes and scenery
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban centers
- Less crowded than major tourist destinations
- Limited access to modern amenities and services
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Some areas may have inadequate infrastructure
- Economic challenges may affect public services
Best Activities in Çıldır
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a relaxing day of boating on Lake Çıldır, where you can rent a boat or join a guided tour to explore the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Lake Çıldır is known for its rich fish population. Bring your fishing gear or rent equipment locally and spend a serene day fishing in tranquil waters.
Explore the surrounding natural beauty with various hiking trails that provide stunning views of the lake and nearby landscapes.
Çıldır is a haven for bird watchers. Spend time observing the diverse bird species that inhabit the area, especially near the lake.
Set up a picnic by the lakeside. Enjoy local foods while soaking in the scenic views and fresh air.
Explore the local culture by visiting nearby villages and experiencing traditional Turkish hospitality and cuisine.
In winter, nearby mountains offer opportunities for snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
Places to Visit in Çıldır
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning freshwater lake surrounded by picturesque landscapes, perfect for capturing breathtaking sunsets and panoramic views.
An ancient castle offering a historical backdrop and impressive views of the surrounding mountains and the lake, ideal for photography.
Located nearby, this lush plateau features vibrant greenery and scenic hills, providing fantastic opportunities for landscape photography.
Although in Kars, this hilltop castle overlooks the region and offers dramatic views of Çıldır and its surroundings, making it worth the visit.
The charming traditional villages around Çıldır present authentic rural life scenes and stunning backdrops for cultural photography.
Food in Çıldır
Çıldır Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A unique twist on the traditional Turkish dumplings, Manti, with spiced meat fillings, topped with garlic yogurt and butter sauce, that can be savored at local eateries like Cıldır Lokantası.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish grilled to perfection and served in a crusty bun with salad and herbs, commonly available at the lakeside fish restaurants.
A savory pastry filled with local cheese, herbs, and sometimes ground meat, best enjoyed at street food stalls or bakeries like Köylü Bakkal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering a colorful array of fresh produce, dairy products, and regional specialties. It's a great place to sample local snacks and street food like crispy gözleme and roasted chestnuts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone in Çıldır, a handshake is common among men, while women may use a light touch or nod. It's polite to ask about the other person's well-being before jumping into conversation.
If invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruit. During meals, wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and try to finish everything on your plate as a sign of appreciation.
In Çıldır, dress modestly, especially in rural areas or when visiting religious sites. Women may want to wear dresses or long skirts, while men should avoid wearing excessively casual clothing like shorts in public settings.
Safety
Tipping in Çıldır
Ensure a smooth experience
In Çıldır, tipping practices are generally casual and based on personal discretion. It is common to leave a small tip in restaurants and cafes, usually rounding up the bill or leaving an extra 5-10%. Tipping is appreciated in bars and for services such as taxis and hairdressers, where rounding up is also typical.
Payment methods in Çıldır typically include cash, as many local businesses may not accept credit or debit cards. The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the official currency. Some larger establishments and tourist areas may accept card payments, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or dining in local restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Çıldır as temperatures begin to warm up, ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Blossoming flowers and lush greenery create a picturesque landscape. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local nature.
Summer (June to August) can get quite warm, with temperatures averaging between 25°C to 35°C. This season is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities like swimming in local lakes or participating in traditional festivals. However, be prepared for occasional heatwaves.
Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The fall foliage provides stunning views, making it a great time for photography and hiking. The weather is generally mild and comfortable.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to -5°C to 5°C. Snow is common, transforming the town into a winter wonderland. This season is ideal for those who enjoy winter sports or exploring local culture in a snowy setting.
Çıldır at Night
Hiking in Çıldır
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic spot with beautiful trails around the lake, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Located a bit further to the southeast, this national park offers diverse hiking trails with stunning views of the lush forests and mountains.
This nature park features various hiking paths with opportunities for wildlife observation and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Though a bit far, it’s one of the prominent hiking destinations in northeastern Turkey, offering challenging trails and breathtaking landscapes.
Hiking trails around the historical Kars Castle that provide both a cultural experience and panoramic views of the town.
Aiports
How to reach Çıldır by plane.
Located about 75 kilometers from Çıldır, Erzurum Airport serves both domestic and international flights, offering access to various destinations.
Approximately 64 kilometers from Çıldır, Kars Harakani Airport primarily focuses on domestic flights but has some international connections.
Around 190 kilometers from Çıldır, Trabzon Airport is a major airport on the Black Sea coast, handling numerous domestic and a few international flights.
Situated roughly 220 kilometers from Çıldır, Kayseri Airport offers a mix of domestic and international services, connecting travelers to several locations.
About 760 kilometers from Çıldır, Antalya Airport is one of the busiest airports in Turkey, predominantly serving international flights and tourism.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Çıldır, comprising the largest portion of the population.
A significant ethnic minority in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Çıldır.
A small community with historical roots in the area, adding to the multicultural aspect of Çıldır.
A minority group in Çıldır, often with cultural ties to neighboring regions.
Includes small populations of various other ethnic and cultural groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular team sport played with a spherical ball, where two teams compete to score goals by getting the ball into the opposing team's net.
A fast-paced team sport where players aim to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop.
A team sport in which two teams compete to score points by hitting a ball over a net and into the opposing team's court.
A traditional sport in Turkey with a rich history, characterized by grappling techniques and physical strength.
Various competitions involving running, jumping, and throwing events that are popular among schools and local sports clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Çıldır.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer vegetable-based dishes, salads, and meze platters that cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Cıldır Organic Cafe and some traditional restaurants are good options for these dietary choices.
While gluten-free options might be more limited, traditional dishes like grilled meats, fresh salads, rice-based dishes, and some local specialties can often be adapted to accommodate gluten-free diets upon request at various dining establishments.