Things To Do
in Kulp
Kulp is a small town in southeastern Turkey, situated on the plains near Diyarbakır. It offers a glimpse into rural Kurdish culture, with simple stone houses, markets, and a welcoming community. The town sits close to the Dicle River and the surrounding farmland, creating a serene backdrop for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from crowded tourist hubs.
Visitors come for the relaxed pace, local hospitality, and accessible day trips to nearby villages and natural scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh bread, olives, and regional cheeses. After breakfast, stroll through the cobbled streets of Kulp, admiring the unique stone architecture and vibrant local markets. Don't forget to visit the ancient mosques and learn about the rich history of the region from friendly locals.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Kulp Castle, where you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the nearby archaeological sites and engage with local historians who can provide fascinating insights into the area's past. Stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can savor authentic regional dishes like kebabs and lentil soup.
As evening approaches, make your way to a traditional tea garden, where you can relax and unwind with a cup of Turkish tea. Engage in conversations with locals, sharing stories about your travels and learning more about their culture. End the day by enjoying a leisurely walk along the river, soaking in the serene atmosphere and the beauty of the sunset.
Begin your day with a visit to a local artisan workshop where traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving are practiced. Watch the artisans at work and perhaps even try your hand at creating your own piece. Afterward, visit the local market to purchase handmade souvenirs and regional spices, immersing yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas.
After a delicious lunch at a local eatery, take part in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Kurdish dishes. Enjoy the process of combining fresh ingredients and spices, guided by a local chef who shares stories about the culinary heritage of Kulp. Savor your creations in a communal setting, enjoying the warmth of local hospitality.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance, showcasing the rich heritage of the region. Engage with performers and locals, learning about the significance of each dance and song. Wrap up your night with a stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the friendly buzz of the evening atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel night | $20-40 |
| 🥙Street food snack | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine local culture and hospitality
- Affordable travel in a rural, scenic setting
- Easy day trips to nearby villages and plains
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Fewer English-speaking services in some areas
- Transport options can be less frequent than in bigger cities
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "İyiyim, teşekkürler" - I’m well, thank you
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Kulp
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over traditional stone houses and narrow lanes offers classic village character and color.
Peaceful waterway with reed beds and rural fields; ideal for long exposure and landscape shots at golden hour.
Weathered facades, wooden balconies, and market remnants create intimate portrait photography opportunities.
Bursting colors of produce, textiles, and spices make vibrant documentary photography easy.
Open countryside with terraced plots and distant ridges provides expansive panoramic views.
Food in Kulp
Kulp Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin, crisp flatbread topped with spiced minced meat and herbs; best enjoyed fresh with a squeeze of lemon.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked lamb or beef that is rich, savory, and commonly served with rice or bulgur.
Bulghur dumplings stuffed with seasoned meat and nuts; a regional favorite in many eateries.
Stuffed grape leaves or peppers with herbaceous filling, often served as a shareable dish.
Turkish flatbread baked with various toppings; a popular street-side option and restaurant staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, olives, dried fruits, spices, and regional snacks like simit and grilled kebabs.
Vibrant stalls selling lokum ( Turkish delight), dried apricots, nuts, and small ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting like Merhaba or Selam is customary. Show respect in conversations and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or religious sites; remove shoes when required and ask before photos of people or private spaces.
Guests are often offered tea or coffee; accept when comfortable as a sign of hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Kulp
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip modestly in restaurants if no service charge is included; 5-10% is common. Small tips for guides or drivers are appreciated but not obligatory.
Turkish Lira is widely used; most places accept cash and some larger establishments accept cards. ATMs are common in town and nearby Diyarbakır.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming fields make it ideal for outdoor walks and photography; bring light layers and sunscreen.
Very hot and dry; plan early-morning activities, stay hydrated, and wear sun protection; seek shade during peak heat.
Comfortable temperatures and harvest-season markets; great for day trips and countryside photography.
Cool to cold with a chance of rain; indoor attractions and village visits are common; pack warm layers and a waterproofs.
Kulp at Night
Hiking in Kulp
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle loop offering expansive views of farmland and distant hills; suitable for an easy morning hike.
Riverside route with seasonal wildlife and reed beds; ideal for photography and relaxed walks.
Airports
How to reach Kulp by plane.
Modern domestic airport with connections to major Turkish cities; typically used for access to Diyarbakır and surrounding towns.
Regional airport offering several domestic routes; reachable by road from Kulp with a longer drive.
Large regional airport with broader international and domestic connections; drive time is longer but serves as an alternative gateway.
Smaller regional airport; convenient for certain routes and regional access, with a longer onward drive to Kulp.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic in the area with a strong sense of regional identity and tradition, contributing to local culture, music, and cuisine.
An integrated mix within the town, contributing to daily life, commerce, and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport in the region; local matches and community teams are common in and around towns.
Wrestling and other local athletic activities have cultural significance and may be observed during community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kulp.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find lentil soups, salads, stuffed vine leaves, and bean-based dishes. Request olive oil and vegetable broths, and avoid meat-based broths or stock where possible.