
Tunceli City Guide (Detailed)
General Information about Tunceli
Tunceli, formerly known as Dersim, is a unique city in Eastern Anatolia, surrounded by the Munzur and Mercan Mountains.
As of 2024, its population is about 84,000.
The city’s history dates back to Urartians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.
Today, it stands as a symbol of nature, peace, and cultural diversity, blending traditional Anatolian and Alevi-Bektaşi heritage.
The region is famous for its mountains, rivers, plateaus, and strong connection to nature and spirituality.
It is also one of the leading centers for eco-tourism and outdoor sports in Eastern Turkey.
Places to Visit in Tunceli
Historical and Cultural Sites
- Munzur Valley National Park: One of Turkey’s largest national parks, covering 42,000 hectares.
- Pertek Castle: An island fortress accessible by boat on Keban Dam Lake.
- Mazgirt Castle: A historical fortress dating back to the Urartian era.
- Elti Hatun Tomb: 12th-century Islamic monument.
- Düzgün Baba Mountain: Sacred site for the Alevi community.
- Ana Fatma Shrine: Important pilgrimage site for local faith traditions.
- Tunceli Museum: Displays ethnographic artifacts and cultural exhibits.
Natural Attractions
- Munzur River: Ideal for rafting and canoeing.
- Halvori Springs: Crystal-clear water source in the Munzur Mountains.
- Pülümür Valley: Perfect for hiking and nature photography.
- Mercan Waterfalls: Hidden gem surrounded by pine forests.
- Keban Dam Lake: Offers boating and fishing opportunities.
Festivals
Tunceli is known for its Munzur Culture and Nature Festival, Ovacık Sports Festival, and Rafting Championships, celebrating harmony between people and nature.
Tunceli Intercity Bus Terminal
Located 2 km from the city center, the Tunceli Intercity Bus Terminal provides daily connections to Istanbul, Ankara, Elazığ, and Erzincan.
Facilities include ticket counters, cafes, prayer rooms, and rest areas.
What to Eat in Tunceli
- Keledoş: Signature local dish made with dried meat, chickpeas, and yogurt.
- Kenger Pilaf: Pilaf flavored with wild thistle.
- Ayran Soup: Cold yogurt-based soup.
- Haşıl: Wheat-based porridge served with butter.
- Kavut: Roasted flour dessert.
- Tandır Bread: Traditional flatbread baked in stone ovens.
How to Get to Tunceli
- By Bus: Regular intercity bus routes from major Turkish cities.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Elazığ Airport (80 km).
- By Road: Erzincan–Tunceli 130 km, Elazığ–Tunceli 80 km.
Bus Companies Operating in Tunceli
- Kamil Koç
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Tuncelililer Seyahat
- Öz Elazığlılar Turizm
- Lider Elbistan
- Elazığ Hazar Turizm