Things To Do
in Hizan
Hizan is a small town located in eastern Turkey, in the Bitlis province. It is surrounded by picturesque mountains and beautiful natural scenery. The town has a rich history, with historical sites such as mosques, old churches, and traditional Turkish houses.
Hizan is known for its peaceful atmosphere and warm hospitality of its residents.
- "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): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café. Visit the historical sites in the town center.
Explore the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Hizan. Hike through the nearby mountains and enjoy the fresh air.
Relax in a local tea house and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea. Engage with locals to learn more about their culture.
Take a morning walk in the countryside to absorb the tranquility of Hizan. Don't forget your camera for some beautiful photos.
Have a picnic by the river and savor the delicious local food. Spend your afternoon birdwatching in the lush greenery.
Visit a local market to buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Enjoy a peaceful dinner at your accommodation, reflecting on the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with ancient ruins and cultural landmarks.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and lakes.
- Warm hospitality and friendly local communities.
- Lower cost of living compared to larger cities in Turkey.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Fewer job opportunities, especially for specialized professions.
- Potential for isolation due to its rural location.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in urban areas.
- Limited public transportation options.
Best Activities in Hizan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails in Munzur Mountains National Park, which offers stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
Set up a camp near the Tunceli River where you can enjoy fishing, swimming, and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Take advantage of the rugged terrain and scenic routes in the area by going mountain biking through the countryside.
Observe many species of birds in their natural habitat in Munzur Valley, a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Visit nearby villages to experience local culture, traditions, and hospitality while enjoying the beautiful outdoor scenery.
Enjoy a leisurely picnic with family and friends in the picturesque Amanos Mountains, surrounded by nature.
Experience the thrill of rafting in the Fırat River, which offers challenging rapids and breathtaking views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hizan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hizan
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing the beauty of the region.
The nearby mountains provide stunning backdrops with their rugged terrain and lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.
A picturesque lake surrounded by hills, perfect for reflective photos during golden hour.
A serene natural park with diverse flora and fauna, excellent for wildlife photography and landscape shots.
The charming village features traditional architecture and local life, providing great opportunities for cultural photography.
Food in Hizan
Hizan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory dish comprising tender lamb or beef, seasoned with local spices and herbs, grilled to perfection. Often served with flatbread and fresh vegetables. Notable places to savor Kürt Kebab include Hizan Sofrası and Yörem Lokantası.
Must-Try!
A popular dish made from lamb intestines stuffed with a mixture of seasoned rice, ground lamb, and aromatic spices. Visitors can relish the best Bumbar at local eateries like Hizan Köftecisi and Zilan Konağı.
A traditional Turkish beverage made from yogurt, water, and a dash of salt. It's a refreshing accompaniment to any meal and is readily available at most restaurants and cafes in Hizan.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a delightful array of fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, dried fruits, and aromatic spices. Visitors can also sample flavorful street food such as gözleme (thin flatbread filled with various savory fillings) and grilled corn.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this market is a treasure trove of authentic Kurdish specialties. Visitors can indulge in local snacks like kete (a type of savory pastry) and simit (circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hizan, a handshake is a common form of greeting, often followed by a nod or a smile. It's important to greet elders first as a sign of respect.
Cultural norms in Hizan emphasize modesty in dress. Wearing conservative clothing is appreciated, especially in rural areas and religious contexts.
Turkish culture values hospitality highly. If invited to a local's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, and when being served food, it's respectful to accept and express gratitude.
Safety
Tipping in Hizan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hizan, Turkey, tipping is considered a customary practice, especially in the service industry. It is common to leave a small tip in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as taxi rides or haircuts. The tip is typically round numbers or a percentage of the total bill, depending on the quality of service received.
Payment practices in Hizan often include cash transactions, especially in smaller businesses and local shops. However, credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments and restaurants. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash, as some smaller vendors may not have card facilities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Hizan (March to May) is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities as the landscape starts to bloom with wildflowers, making hiking and nature walks particularly rewarding.
Summer (June to August) can be warm, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This is the peak tourist season, and visitors can expect vibrant local festivals. The evenings are cooler, making it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the local culture.
Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The foliage changes color, creating stunning landscapes. It's a peaceful time to visit, with fewer crowds and ideal conditions for photography and relaxation.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to below freezing. Snow is possible, transforming the area into a winter wonderland. This season is perfect for those who enjoy quiet landscapes and cozy indoor activities.
Hizan at Night
Hiking in Hizan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park offering various hiking trails with stunning views of mountains, lakes, and diverse wildlife.
A scenic plateau perfect for hiking, with lush greenery and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
A picturesque valley with trails suitable for all skill levels, featuring natural beauty and tranquility.
Known for its charming natural environment, this plateau offers peaceful hiking experiences amidst forests and meadows.
A stunning trail around Lake Van, providing breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Aiports
How to reach Hizan by plane.
Located approximately 130 km from Hizan, Erzurum Airport serves domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 170 km from Hizan, this airport serves both domestic and some international destinations.
Situated approximately 210 km from Hizan, Diyarbakır Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections.
Located about 250 km from Hizan, this airport primarily serves domestic flights.
Approximately 260 km from Hizan, Adıyaman Airport mainly handles domestic passengers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Hizan, predominantly Kurdish people are known for their unique cultural traditions, language, and social structures.
A significant number of Turkish people reside in Hizan, contributing to the cultural and social diversity of the area.
There are smaller communities of Arabic speakers in Hizan, which adds to the rich tapestry of cultures in the region.
The Zaza people represent a minority group in Hizan, with their distinct language and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Hizan, with many local clubs and youth teams. The community often comes together to support their teams during the local league matches.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Hizan, particularly among younger generations. Local schools often have basketball programs, and there are various recreational leagues for both males and females.
Traditional wrestling is a significant part of the culture in Hizan, with local competitions and events showcasing skilled wrestlers. This sport has deep-rooted historical significance in the region.
Volleyball is popular among both men and women in Hizan, with many community tournaments held throughout the year, fostering teamwork and local pride.
Track and field activities are promoted in schools, and local sports events often include competitions in running, jumping, and various other athletic disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hizan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Hizan has a strong focus on meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options such as stuffed grape leaves, falafel, and lentil soup.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free variations of local specialties like kebabs, rice pilaf, and mezes at select restaurants. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a delightful dining experience.