Kelkit
,Kelkit is a charming town located in the Gümüşhane province of Turkey. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush green forests, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers. The town is known for its traditional Ottoman architecture, with several historic mosques and bridges scattered throughout the area.
Kelkit also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with festivals and events that showcase the local traditions and customs.
- "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 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Nature of Kelkit
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing hike in the beautiful countryside surrounding Kelkit. Enjoy the stunning views and fresh air as you encounter local wildlife.
afternoon
:Visit the charming village center and explore its shops and cafes. Don't forget to try some traditional Turkish snacks.
evening
:Relax at a local restaurant and enjoy a hearty meal. The perfect way to wind down after a day of adventure!
Historical Kelkit Journey
morning
:Visit the ancient ruins of the Seljuk Mosque, an architectural gem of Kelkit. Learn about its fascinating history from the locals.
afternoon
:Explore nearby historical sites, including fortresses and walls from various periods. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage.
evening
:Return to the town and enjoy a leisurely walk through the streets. Savor the local cuisine at a quaint eatery.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
- Beautiful natural landscapes and scenery
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Affordable cost of living compared to major cities
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and fishing
Bad
- Limited job opportunities for professionals
- Less access to modern amenities and services
- Infrequent public transportation options
- Potential language barrier for non-Turkish speakers
- Harsh winter weather conditions
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Koyunbaba Mountains
Explore the beautiful natural scenery and enjoy the fresh air while hiking in the Koyunbaba Mountains near Kelkit.
Fishing in the Kelkit River
Cast your line in the Kelkit River and try your hand at fishing for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Picnicking in the Yellice Forest
Enjoy a tranquil picnic surrounded by the lush greenery of the Yellice Forest, perfect for a peaceful outing with friends and family.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Kelkit with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Kelkit Castle
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a great spot for photography
Tatlarin Tepesi
Famous for its stunning views of the Kelkit Valley and the surrounding mountains, perfect for photography enthusiasts
Kelkit River
Scenic spots along the Kelkit River offer picturesque views for photography
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kelkit Köfte
A savory dish made of seasoned ground meat, shaped into patties and commonly grilled or pan-fried. It's a must-try local specialty that showcases the region's expertise in meat-based dishes. Visitors can savor authentic Kelkit Köfte at local kebab houses and grill eateries.
Must-Try!
Çemen
A unique type of paste made from ground fenugreek seeds and hot red pepper, often served as a condiment or dip with bread. It's a flavorful and spicy addition to any meal, and it can be found in traditional bakeries and markets across Kelkit.
Hangel
A popular dessert made from thin layers of pastry dough, sweetened with syrup and often filled with nuts or cream. Hangel is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed at local pastry shops and dessert cafes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kelkit better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kelkit Friday Market
Every Friday, the bustling Kelkit market comes alive with fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls. Visitors can explore an abundance of regional fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and enjoy authentic street food such as simit (sesame-seed bread rings) and gözleme (traditional savory flatbread filled with various fillings).
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting
It is important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time. It is also polite to use titles like 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' when addressing someone.
Hospitality
Hospitality is highly valued in Kelkit. When invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or flowers, as a token of appreciation.
Respect for elders
Respect for elders is an integral part of the culture in Kelkit. It is important to address older individuals with respect and deference, and to listen attentively to their advice and stories.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kelkit with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping in Kelkit, Turkey is not mandatory, but leaving a small amount as a sign of appreciation for good service is generally appreciated, especially in restaurants and for services like taxi rides.
Payment
In Kelkit, Turkey, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, while credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller shops and local markets.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kelkit.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to enjoy the blooming flowers and pleasant weather
Summer
Ideal for outdoor activities and events like the Kelkit Festival
Autumn
Great for hiking and enjoying the colorful foliage
Winter
Perfect for experiencing the beauty of snow and enjoying winter sports
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Kalkanlı Plateau
A beautiful plateau offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Çamlıca Forest
A serene forest area with well-marked trails ideal for hiking and nature walks, featuring rich flora and fauna.
Kuzalan Nature Park
This nature park has several hiking paths and picnic spots, along with breathtaking landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere.
Gölbaşı Lake
A picturesque lake area that provides access to hiking trails along the water’s edge, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
Dağbaşı Mountain
A mountainous region with more challenging hiking routes, offering panoramic views of the Kelkit Basin and beyond.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kelkit through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Kelkit by plane.
Erzincan Airport (ERC)
Located approximately 89 km from Kelkit, Erzincan Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.
Bayburt Airport (BYT)
Situated around 92 km from Kelkit, this airport serves domestic flights and is one of the closest to the region.
Trabzon Airport (TZX)
This airport is about 154 km from Kelkit and is a major international airport in the Black Sea region, providing numerous domestic and international flights.
Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport (VAS)
Located 165 km from Kelkit, Sivas Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Erzurum Airport (ERZ)
Approximately 183 km from Kelkit, Erzurum Airport is a significant international hub in Eastern Turkey with various domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Turkish
The predominant ethnic group in Kelkit, representing the majority of the population.
Kurdish
A significant minority group in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Alevi
A religious and cultural community, which may include members of both Turkish and Kurdish ethnic backgrounds.
Other ethnic groups
Includes smaller populations of various ethnicities and communities, contributing to the local tapestry.
The Soul of Kelkit
Discover the essence of Kelkit through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Kelkit, with many local teams participating in regional leagues.
Basketball
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth, with local courts and clubs facilitating matches and training.
Volleyball
Volleyball is widely played in schools and local tournaments, attracting both boys and girls.
Wrestling
Traditional Turkish wrestling is a popular sport in Kelkit, showcasing local culture and heritage during festivals.
Athletics
Athletics events, including running and field sports, are common in schools and organized competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Kelkit's cuisine predominantly features meat-based dishes, many local eateries offer vegetarian options such as stuffed grape leaves (dolma), eggplant dishes, and various mezze plates. Visitors can also find vegan-friendly items like çemen and vegetable-based stews.
Gluten-Free Choices
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can indulge in gluten-free options like rice-based dishes, kebabs without pita bread, and salads made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out to ensure a pleasant experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kelkit with these cultural adventures.
