Bitlis-Siirt-Hakkari-Şırnak-Van by Train

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Discover the Mysterious World of the East via Iron Rails: Bitlis, Siirt, Hakkari, Şırnak, and Van! You are invited to a train journey beyond borders, exploring the hidden geography of Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia to the rhythm of rails. This adventure, starting with enchanting landscapes flowing from the windows, brings together five ancient cities from a completely different perspective. Setting off from Bitlis, which defies history with its five minarets and centuries-old stone architecture, we extend to Siirt, host to a mysterious history in the depths of the Botan Valley. As our train overcomes steep slopes, the breathtaking nature of Hakkari greets you with its towering Cilo Mountains and untouched magnificent geography. After exploring Şırnak, nestled in the shadow of epic mountains whispering the legends of Noah's Ark, we turn our route to Van, the sea of the East. Concluding with the deep-rooted history of Akdamar Island and enchanting sunset views, this journey is not just an exploration but a vibrant painting viewed through train windows. Reserve your spot now for this extraordinary adventure blending the purest form of geography, traces of ancient civilizations, and the region's unique gourmet flavors with the nostalgic spirit of the railway!

Included Services

  • Istanbul-Ankara high-speed train ticket
  • Outbound train ticket (sleeper)
  • Return flight ticket
  • 4 nights hotel accommodation
  • 4 breakfasts
  • 4 dinners
  • Transfers by vehicle
  • Travel insurance
  • Onboard refreshments
  • Licensed guide
  • Agency accompaniment

Not Included

  • On-train meals
  • Entrance fees to historical sites
  • Lunches
  • Cilo transfer fee

Meeting & End Points

  • Starting Point: İstanbul-Kadıköy
  • Ending Point: Eruh -İsmail Fakirullah Türbesi-Siirt -Botan Çayı-İSTANBUL

Meeting Points

  • Kadıköy YHT Station — Kadıköy YHT İstasyonu

Daily Tour Program

  1. Day 1
    After arriving at Tatvan train station, we board our vehicle and stop to taste Bitlis's famous Büryan kebab. Then we start the tour with the historical city of Bitlis. You will be amazed by the historical Bitlis city center, where urban transformation projects concluded in 2024 and opened to tourism this year. In the middle of the city, you'll see the stream said to have healed Alexander the Great
  2. Day 2
    After breakfast at the hotel, we head towards Hakkari. We explore Çavuştepe Castle, built by Urartian King Sarduri II between 764-735 BC. After seeing the textile workshop, wheat storage ruins, temple dedicated to God Irmushini, rooms, stone walls, palace, and cellars, we view Hoşap Castle (panoramic), perched on a steep rocky mass northwest of Hoşap Creek. The castle resembles an eagle's nest. Af
  3. Day 3
    After breakfast at our hotel, we depart for Mount Cilo. Following our lunch in Yüksekova, we ascend to the Sat Lakes of Mount Cilo (3,500 m altitude) in extra transfer vehicles. The Sat Glacial Lakes, declared a 'strictly protected sensitive area' on Mount Cilo (Glacial), offer unique vistas with their stunning landscapes and natural beauty. There are three Sat Lakes open to tour routes. Starting
  4. Day 4
    After having breakfast at the hotel, we set off for a delightful tour in Çukurca, exploring the Çukurca Castle, whose history dates back to the Urartu period, and the historic stone houses of the Armenian Quarter, built with cut stone leaning against the castle over 700 years ago. Then, we visit the 400-year-old water mill to see tahini production, take a break for tea and coffee, and after visiti