Things To Do
in Eleşkirt

Eleşkirt is a small yet charming district located in the Ağrı Province of Turkey, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled at the foot of Mount Ararat, it offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The town is characterized by its traditional architecture and hospitable locals, providing visitors with a glimpse into Turkish rural life.

With a blend of ancient history and modern-day convenience, Eleşkirt is an off-the-beaten-path gem waiting to be explored.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Eleşkirt
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Eleşkirt Castle, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to experience the vibrant culture and shop for handmade crafts and local produce. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Wrap up your day by visiting a traditional Turkish tea house to relax and socialize with locals while sipping on delicious tea.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in the nearby Mount Ararat National Park, where you can witness breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Eleşkirt and the surrounding regions.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes, followed by a stroll through the town's charming streets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$8
Cup of coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel night$30
🥖Loaf of bread$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and views of Mount Ararat.
  • Rich cultural heritage and welcoming locals.
  • Affordable costs of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes

Places to Visit in Eleşkirt

Visit one of these nice places.

Eleşkirt Castle

The ruins of this historical castle provide a stunning backdrop for photographs, especially during sunset.

Mount Ararat

The majestic view of Mount Ararat from various vantage points in Eleşkirt is breathtaking and perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Local Market

The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the local market present fantastic opportunities for candid and culturally rich photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Eleşkirt

Eleşkirt offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the region's rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Eleşkirt Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Aşure

A traditional dessert made from a mixture of grains, fruits, and nuts, symbolizing abundance and sharing.

Must-Try!

Kebab

Succulent skewers of marinated meat, grilled to perfection, often served with rice and fresh vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Eleşkirt Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and street food, offering a taste of authentic Turkish flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Eleşkirt experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant. In summer, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures may drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower. Rainfall is minimal in summer but can increase during spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

It's important to show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during religious events.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local culture.

Hospitality

Turkish people are known for their hospitality; it’s polite to accept offers of tea or food when visiting someone’s home.

Safety Guide

Safety

Eleşkirt is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it's advisable to take standard precautions like keeping an eye on personal belongings. Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas. It's also beneficial to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and health facilities.

Tipping in Eleşkirt

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of about 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some establishments also accept credit cards. ATMs are available in the town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot, with temperatures rising, so it's best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for outdoor exploration.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, providing stunning landscapes for photography and comfortable temperatures for activities.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snowfall, creating a picturesque setting but making outdoor activities more challenging.

Nightlife Guide

Eleşkirt at Night

Eleşkirt has a subdued nightlife scene, primarily consisting of local cafés and tea houses where you can enjoy traditional Turkish tea and socialize with locals. While there are no nightclubs, the warm ambiance of the cafés provides a great opportunity to unwind after a day of exploring. Occasionally, local events or celebrations can provide lively entertainment, showcasing traditional music and dance.

Hiking in Eleşkirt

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Ararat Trail

A challenging trail that leads to the base of Mount Ararat, offering breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.

Eleşkirt Nature Park Trail

A scenic and easier trail perfect for families, winding through lush landscapes and offering picnic spots along the way.

Airports

How to reach Eleşkirt by plane.

Ağrı Ahmed-i Hani Airport

Located about 25 km from Eleşkirt, this airport offers domestic flights connecting to major cities in Turkey, making it the closest access point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Eleşkirt is a small town, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the area on foot. The streets are generally flat, but some areas may have uneven pavement, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurds

The Kurdish community is significant in Eleşkirt, contributing to the cultural diversity and traditions of the region.

Turks

Turks make up a considerable portion of the population, influencing local customs, cuisine, and daily life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Eleşkirt, with local teams and matches that attract community support.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling, known as 'Yağlı Güreş,' is also celebrated in the region, showcasing cultural heritage during local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Eleşkirt is generally light, and the town can be navigated easily by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include minibuses and taxis, which are available for longer distances. Although roads are mostly in good condition, rural areas may have less maintained roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Eleşkirt.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; be sure to ask for specific options if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Eleşkirt are limited, with a local hospital providing basic medical services. For serious medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities such as Ağrı for more comprehensive care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide