General Information about Bingöl
Located in Eastern Anatolia, Bingöl is a mountainous province with a population of about 284,000 (2024 data). The name "Bingöl" means “a thousand lakes”, referring to the countless glacial lakes scattered across its highlands. Known for its natural beauty, plateaus, and cultural traditions, Bingöl offers a mix of untouched nature and authentic Anatolian life.
The city has been home to many civilizations, including the Urartians, Persians, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Today, it is characterized by its strong connection to livestock farming, honey production, and traditional crafts. The city’s high altitude and mountainous climate make winters long and snowy, while summers are mild and cool, ideal for nature tourism.
Places to Visit in Bingöl
- Bingöl Highlands: Famous for trekking, camping, and breathtaking landscapes.
- Glacial Lakes: The city’s name reflects these natural wonders, with numerous lakes such as Yüzen Adalar (Floating Islands).
- Yüzen Adalar (Floating Islands): A unique natural phenomenon where small floating islands drift on a lake in Solhan.
- Kös Thermal Springs: Known for their healing waters, attracting health tourism.
- Kiğı Castle: A medieval fortress with historical remains.
- Buban Fairy Chimneys: Natural rock formations resembling Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys.
- Çır Waterfall: A scenic waterfall located near Kiğı district.
- Hazarşah Village and Yaylalar: Rich in natural scenery and traditional village life.
Bingöl Bus Terminal
Bingöl Intercity Bus Terminal provides connections to major Turkish cities as well as neighboring provinces like Erzurum, Elazığ, Muş, and Diyarbakır.
Facilities include:
- Ticket counters for regional and national companies
- Waiting areas
- Small cafés and markets
- Minibus services to districts and villages
Travel times: Istanbul–Bingöl (~17–18 hours), Ankara–Bingöl (~11–12 hours), Erzurum–Bingöl (~3 hours), Diyarbakır–Bingöl (~2.5 hours).
What to Eat in Bingöl?
Bingöl’s cuisine is hearty and influenced by Kurdish and Anatolian traditions.
- Bingöl Meatballs (Bingöl Köftesi): A local specialty made with bulgur and minced meat.
- Löl (Herb Dish): A springtime dish made with fresh herbs, bulgur, and yogurt.
- Gluten (Bulgur Pilaf): A common side dish made with bulgur wheat.
- Kete: A traditional pastry often filled with tahini or butter.
- Çorti Aşı: A soup made from pickled cabbage leaves, bulgur, and meat.
- Mastuva: A yogurt and rice-based dish.
- Honey: Bingöl is famous for its highland honey, particularly from Yayladere and Karlıova.
- Dolma Varieties: Stuffed vegetables, often flavored with regional spices.
How to Get to Bingöl?
- By Bus: Intercity buses connect Bingöl with Istanbul (~18 hours), Ankara (~12 hours), Erzurum (~3 hours), and Diyarbakır (~2.5 hours).
- By Air:Bingöl Airport is located 20 km from the city center, offering regular flights to Istanbul and Ankara.
- By Train: Bingöl does not have a direct railway connection. The nearest stations are in Elazığ and Muş.
- By Car: Istanbul–Bingöl 1,200 km (~18 hours), Ankara–Bingöl 800 km (~12 hours), Erzurum–Bingöl 150 km (~3 hours), Diyarbakır–Bingöl 145 km (~2.5 hours).
Bus Companies Operating in Bingöl
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Öz Bingöl Turizm
- Seç Turizm
- Lüks Bingöl Seyahat
Local bus companies provide frequent services to nearby provinces such as Elazığ, Erzurum, and Diyarbakır.
