Şırnak City Guide
Şırnak is a city located in Southeastern Anatolia, known for its deep history, mountain landscapes, and cultural diversity.
As of 2024, its population is around 550,000.
The city is believed to be the place where Noah’s Ark landed on Mount Cudi after the great flood, making Şırnak a symbol of rebirth and faith.
It has been home to Assyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, all leaving a rich heritage behind.
Şırnak’s geography is mountainous and rugged, with Mount Cudi, Mount Gabar, and Mount Namaz shaping its landscape.
Its economy depends on agriculture, livestock, and border trade, and it has growing energy and mining sectors.
Places to Visit in Şırnak
Historical and Cultural Sites
- Mount Cudi: The legendary mountain of Noah’s Ark.
- Kasrik Canyon: A scenic gorge along the Tigris River.
- Finik Castle: Ancient ruins offering panoramic views.
- Cizre Great Mosque: A 12th-century mosque known for its bronze door knockers.
- Red Madrasa: 14th-century structure built with red bricks.
- Mem-u Zin Mausoleum: Symbol of Kurdish literature and eternal love.
- Noah’s Tomb: Believed burial place of Prophet Noah.
- Şırnak Museum: Displays ethnographic and historical artifacts from the region.
Natural Attractions
- Cudi Mountain National Park: Popular for hiking and nature photography.
- Hezil River: Ideal for rafting and picnics.
- Idil Highlands: Perfect for camping during summer.
- Bestler Valley: Rugged canyons and streams for adventure lovers.
Festivals
Şırnak hosts the Cudi Mountain Noah Festival, Cizre Culture Days, and Hezil River Festival, celebrating peace, nature, and tradition.
Şırnak Intercity Bus Terminal
The Şırnak Intercity Bus Terminal is located 3 km from the city center and offers routes to Istanbul, Ankara, Diyarbakır, and Gaziantep.
Facilities include cafes, ticket counters, prayer rooms, and rest areas.
What to Eat in Şırnak
- Kipe (Stuffed Meatballs): Bulgur and minced meat dish.
- Tandır Kebab: Slow-cooked lamb in clay ovens.
- Perde Pilaf: Rice with almonds and meat wrapped in pastry.
- Kutlık: Savory pastry filled with spiced meat.
- Zingil Dessert: Deep-fried dough with syrup.
- Serbidev: Spinach and egg dish for breakfast.
How to Get to Şırnak
- By Bus: Regular intercity routes from major Turkish cities.
- By Air:Şerafettin Elçi Airport (10 km) offers daily flights from Istanbul and Ankara.
- By Road: Diyarbakır–Şırnak 220 km (~3.5 h), Batman–Şırnak 150 km (~2 h).
Bus Companies Operating in Şırnak
- Kamil Koç
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Özlem Cizre Nuh Turizm
- Star Cizre
- Has Diyarbakır
- Lüks Mardin
- Yeni Diyarbakır Seyahat
