Things To Do
in Narman
Narman is a quiet town in eastern Turkey's Erzurum Province, set among rugged uplands where dramatic fairy chimney rock formations rise along limestone cliffs. The landscape is striking year-round, with snowy winters and sunlit canyons in the warmer months. Its rural atmosphere offers a window into traditional Anatolian village life and warm Erzurum hospitality.
Visitors come for photography, nature, and a taste of regional culture in a compact, scenic setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Narman and check into your accommodation, enjoying a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café. Spend your morning wandering the charming streets of the town, admiring the unique architecture and colorful flower boxes. Take some time to visit the local market, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and sampling fresh produce and local delicacies.
In the afternoon, head to Narman's famous red rocks, known for their stunning geological formations. You can explore the area through hiking, capturing breathtaking photographs of the surreal landscapes. Don't miss a visit to the nearby ancient ruins for a dose of history and culture.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy traditional Turkish dishes flavored with local herbs. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, watching as the evening sky is painted in hues of orange and purple. End your night with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee at a local café, soaking in the friendly ambiance of Narman.
Start your day with a visit to the local cultural center where you can learn about the rich history of Narman. Participate in a pottery workshop led by local artisans and try your hand at creating your own piece of art. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the community and gain insight into traditional crafts.
In the afternoon, visit the Narman Fairy Chimneys, an enchanting site that showcases nature's artistry. Spend time hiking around the formations and capturing stunning views, while possibly encountering local wildlife. Make sure to bring a packed lunch to enjoy a picnic amidst the natural beauty.
For dinner, savor a meal at a family-run eatery that specializes in regional cuisine, where you can taste local specialties such as kebabs and mezes. Afterward, attend a cultural night featuring traditional folk music and dance, allowing you to experience the vibrant spirit of Turkish culture. Conclude your evening by mingling with locals and sharing stories of your day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $50-90 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $25-60 |
| 🛒Basic groceries for 1 week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning rock formations and photography opportunities
- Authentic Erzurum hospitality in a compact, less-crowded setting
- Rich regional cuisine and rural countryside experiences
- Clear, stargazy nights and peaceful landscapes
- Limited tourist infrastructure and nightlife
- Longer drives to Erzurum city for major services and more options
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and icy roads
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Nerede ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Afiyet olsun" - Enjoy your meal
Places to Visit in Narman
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic row of tall, mushroom-shaped rock pillars carved by wind and rain, best photographed at sunrise or sunset for soft, dramatic light.
High viewpoints along the hillside offering sweeping views of the chimney formations and valleys, ideal for wide-angle shots.
Old limestone houses lining narrow lanes that frame the chimneys—great for architectural and street photography.
Food in Narman
Narman Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Erzurum-style lamb kebab grilled on a long skewer, traditionally served on flatbread with grilled peppers and onions.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings topped with garlicky yogurt sauce and a drizzle of oil, a regional favorite.
Slow-cooked beef or lamb finished in its own fats, often served with bread or pilaf.
comforting lentil soup that starts many meals in the region.
Refreshing salted yogurt drink that pairs well with heavy dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, cheeses, herbs, bread, and simple street snacks like gözleme and simit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Merhaba' or 'Selam'; handshakes are common, especially with men; address elders with respect.
Tea is a social staple; accepting tea is polite and conversation typically slows during tea breaks.
Modest dress is appreciated in villages and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered for many interiors.
Always ask before photographing people, especially in intimate or religious settings.
Safety
Tipping in Narman
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants if service is not included; 5-10% is common for good service. Guides and drivers may appreciate small tips.
Cash (Turkish Lira) is widely accepted; major credit cards are common in towns and larger establishments, but some rural spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; long daylight hours make for extended hiking and photography sessions. Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Mild weather with golden light and quieter trails; excellent for landscape photography and village exploration.
Cold and often snowy; roads can be icy and some routes may close. Pack warm, layered clothing and footwear with solid traction.
Milder temperatures and budding flora; pleasant for hiking and outdoor walks with fresh air and clear skies.
Narman at Night
Hiking in Narman
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking route along the chimneys with overlooks and photo-ready viewpoints.
Ridge trails that offer expansive views of rock formations and the surrounding valleys.
Airports
How to reach Narman by plane.
The main regional airport with domestic connections and some international flights; access to Narman by road is a few hours depending on weather and road conditions.
A secondary option in the wider region, further away but reachable by road for broader flight connections.
Another regional airport within a reasonable drive, offering additional travel options to larger cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Turkish-speaking rural families who engage in agriculture and regional trades; strong sense of community.
You may encounter regional influences from nearby eastern Anatolian communities, reflected in dialect and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter sports destination near Erzurum with long-season skiing and alpine facilities.
Village and town leagues reflect local passion for the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Narman.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose lentil soup, eggplant dishes, peppers and cheeses, or cheese-filled mantı alternatives; ask for meat-free versions when ordering.