Hakkâri City Guide
Hakkâri is located in the southeasternmost part of Turkey, bordering Iran and Iraq. According to 2024 data, the city has a population of around 280,000. With an average altitude of 2,000 meters, Hakkâri is one of the highest and most mountainous regions of Turkey.
The city takes its name from the historical Hakkari tribes. Throughout history, it was home to the Urartians, Assyrians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. During the Ottoman era, Hakkâri was a key point for border security and trade routes.
Today, Hakkâri is famous for its tribal culture, hospitality, handicrafts, honey production, and highland tourism. Animal husbandry, agriculture, and beekeeping form the backbone of the local economy, while its natural landscape makes it a growing destination for mountaineering and rafting.
Places to Visit in Hakkâri
- Cilo Mountains & Sat Glaciers: Peaks over 4,000 meters and the largest glacier fields in Turkey.
- Zap River: A prime destination for rafting, canoeing, and nature tourism.
- Bay Village Stone Houses: Traditional stone houses that reflect centuries-old architecture.
- Durankaya Plateau: Famous for its summer festivals and nomadic lifestyle.
- Meydan Madrasa: An Ottoman-era religious structure from the 18th century.
- Berçelan Plateau: Colorful meadows and highland pastures used by nomads.
- Şemdinli Stone Bridge: An Ottoman bridge crossing the Zap River.
- Hakkâri Museum: Showcasing archaeological and ethnographic artifacts.
Hakkâri Bus Terminal
The Hakkâri Intercity Bus Terminal connects the city to other parts of Turkey despite its mountainous geography.
- Direct bus services to Van, Diyarbakır, Şırnak, Siirt, and Ankara.
- Minibuses provide access to local districts and villages.
- Passenger facilities include waiting lounges, small restaurants, and ticket offices.
Approximate travel times:
- Van → Hakkâri: 200 km (~4 hours)
- Şırnak → Hakkâri: 230 km (~5 hours)
- Diyarbakır → Hakkâri: 460 km (~8 hours)
- Ankara → Hakkâri: 1,250 km (~16 hours)
What to Eat in Hakkâri?
- Kepaye: A local dish made with meat, chickpeas, and spices.
- Doğaba: A yogurt-based soup with meat and rice.
- Jajh: Yogurt and meat dish, often served during weddings.
- Seveni: A traditional bulgur pilaf with vegetables.
- Siron: Rolled yufka topped with yogurt and butter.
- Berçelan Honey: Famous honey produced in the highlands.
- Herbal Dishes: Meals made with mountain herbs unique to Hakkâri.
How to Get to Hakkâri
- By Bus: Direct buses available from Van and Diyarbakır.
- By Air:Yüksekova Selahaddin Eyyubi Airport, located 70 km away, has flights from Istanbul and Ankara.
- By Car: Accessible from Van via the D-975 highway.
- By Train: No railway line; the nearest connection is in Van.
Bus Companies Operating in Hakkâri
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Vangölü Turizm
- Özlem Van Turizm
- Hakkâri Yüksekova Seyahat
