General Information about Çankırı
Located in Central Anatolia, Çankırı is a small but historically rich province with a population of about 204,000 (2024 data). Nestled between Ankara, Kastamonu, and Çorum, Çankırı has served as a cultural and trade crossroad for thousands of years. The city is particularly known for its rock salt mines, hot springs, and Anatolian village life.
Çankırı’s history stretches back to the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Its old name was Gangra during the Hellenistic period and Germanicopolis under the Romans. Today, Çankırı maintains its traditional Anatolian identity while offering unique natural and historical attractions.
Places to Visit in Çankırı
- Çankırı Castle: Dating back to Roman and Byzantine times, offering views over the city.
- Çankırı Rock Salt Mine: One of the largest and oldest in Turkey, providing guided tours and even a health therapy center inside.
- Great Mosque (Ulu Camii): A 16th-century Ottoman mosque built by Grand Vizier İshak Pasha.
- Taş Mescit (Stone Mosque): Built in the 13th century, reflecting Seljuk architecture.
- Eldivan Vineyards and Plateaus: Famous for grapes, natural beauty, and local festivals.
- Ilgaz Mountains National Park: A popular destination for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, shared with Kastamonu.
- Çivitçioğlu Medrese: A 17th-century religious school showcasing Ottoman architecture.
- Buğday Pazarı Medrese: Now used as a cultural center and museum.
- Korgun Highlands: A serene area with meadows and fresh air.
Çankırı Bus Terminal
Çankırı Intercity Bus Terminal provides regular services to Ankara, Istanbul, Kastamonu, and other Anatolian provinces. Although not very large, it is functional and meets passenger needs.
Facilities include:
- Ticket offices for local and national bus companies
- Waiting lounges
- Cafés and small shops
- Minibuses to districts such as Ilgaz, Eldivan, and Kurşunlu
Travel times: Ankara–Çankırı (~2 hours), Istanbul–Çankırı (~6–7 hours), Kastamonu–Çankırı (~2 hours).
What to Eat in Çankırı?
Çankırı’s cuisine is simple, hearty, and based on local agricultural products.
- Yaren Güveci: A slow-cooked meat and vegetable dish.
- Çankırı Tava: A lamb-based dish with rice or bulgur.
- Ekmek Musakka: Bread layered with minced meat and vegetables.
- Yaprak Sarma: Stuffed vine leaves prepared with rice and spices.
- Kuru Yayla Çorbası: A yogurt-based soup with grains and herbs.
- Hoşmerim Dessert: A sweet made with cheese, flour, and sugar, also common in nearby regions.
- Handmade Noodles (Erişte): Traditionally dried and stored for winter.
- Village Yogurt and Butter: Natural dairy products from local farms.
How to Get to Çankırı?
- By Bus: Daily services operate from Ankara (~2 hours), Istanbul (~6–7 hours), and nearby provinces.
- By Air: Çankırı does not have an airport. The nearest is Ankara Esenboğa Airport (130 km).
- By Train: Çankırı is connected by railway to Ankara, Zonguldak, and Karabük.
- By Car: Ankara–Çankırı 130 km (~2 hours), Istanbul–Çankırı 470 km (~6–7 hours), Kastamonu–Çankırı 100 km (~2 hours).
Bus Companies Operating in Çankırı
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Öz Çankırı Turizm
- Seç Turizm
- Kastamonu Güven Turizm
Local bus companies provide services to Ilgaz, Eldivan, and other districts.
