General Information about Bitlis
Located in Eastern Anatolia, Bitlis is a city of deep valleys, historic castles, and rich culture. With a population of about 349,000 (2024 data), the city sits on the slopes of the Bitlis River Valley, surrounded by high mountains. Its rugged geography and historic landmarks make it a fascinating destination for both history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The city’s history dates back thousands of years and includes civilizations such as the Urartians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Its name is said to have come from Alexander the Great’s general, Bedlis, who supposedly founded the city.
Today, Bitlis is well known for its tobacco, honey, and handcrafted products. It also plays a significant role as a cultural bridge between Anatolia and Mesopotamia.
Places to Visit in Bitlis
- Bitlis Castle: Built by Alexander the Great according to legend, this fortress overlooks the city and has been restored many times throughout history.
- Nemrut Crater Lake (Tatvan): The second-largest crater lake in the world, located near Tatvan, offering hot and cold lakes, hiking trails, and camping areas.
- Ahlat Seljuk Cemetery: A UNESCO candidate site, home to thousands of intricately carved gravestones dating back to the 12th century.
- Tatvan: A district on the shores of Lake Van, popular for its scenic views and cultural importance.
- Lake Van Shoreline: A natural attraction where visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets and fresh fish.
- El-Aman Caravanserai: A Seljuk-era inn built for travelers on the Silk Road.
- Bitlis Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii): Built in the 12th century, it is one of the oldest and most important mosques in the region.
- Şerefiye Mosque and Complex: A historical religious site reflecting Seljuk architecture.
- Sapkor Bridge: A centuries-old stone bridge located near the city center.
Bitlis Bus Terminal
Bitlis Intercity Bus Terminal provides connections to many provinces in Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia, as well as to major cities such as Ankara, Istanbul, and İzmir.
Facilities include:
- Ticket offices for regional and national bus companies
- Waiting halls
- Shops and small restaurants
- Minibuses to districts such as Tatvan, Ahlat, and Güroymak
Travel times: Istanbul–Bitlis (~20–21 hours), Ankara–Bitlis (~13–14 hours), Van–Bitlis (~2 hours), Diyarbakır–Bitlis (~5 hours).
What to Eat in Bitlis?
Bitlis cuisine is rich, hearty, and strongly influenced by Kurdish and Anatolian traditions.
- Bitlis Büryanı (Büryan Kebab): The city’s most famous dish, made by slow-cooking lamb meat in an underground pit oven.
- Keşkek: A dish made of wheat and meat, cooked for hours until soft.
- Çorti Aşı: A winter soup made with fermented cabbage leaves.
- Kenger Saute: A dish prepared with wild herbs unique to the region.
- Kurut Aşı: A soup made with dried yogurt balls.
- Tatvan Fish (Inci Kefali): A unique fish species from Lake Van, grilled or fried.
- Kete and Kömbe: Traditional pastries often filled with butter or tahini.
- Honey: Bitlis highlands produce some of Turkey’s best-quality honey.
How to Get to Bitlis?
- By Bus: Daily buses operate from Istanbul (~20 hours), Ankara (~13 hours), Van (~2 hours), Diyarbakır (~5 hours).
- By Air: Bitlis does not have its own airport. The nearest is Muş Airport (80 km) and Van Ferit Melen Airport (150 km).
- By Train: Tatvan district has a railway connection to Ankara via the Van Lake Express.
- By Car: Istanbul–Bitlis 1,400 km (~20 hours), Ankara–Bitlis 1,050 km (~13 hours), Van–Bitlis 150 km (~2 hours).
Bus Companies Operating in Bitlis
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Bitlis Taç Turizm
- Tatvan Muş Turizm
- Seç Turizm
- Öz Doğu Kars
Local companies ensure frequent transportation between Bitlis and its districts, as well as nearby provinces such as Van, Muş, and Diyarbakır.
