ABOUT NEMRUT

There are two peaks called Nemrut in Turkey; the one near Adiyaman has the colossal stone heads. The other Mt. Nemrut in Eastern Anatolia is an extinct volcano which blew off its cone some 60,000 years ago, blocking the outlet of the Van basin and forming Lake Van; it continued to be active until 1441 A.D. The remaining rim rises to 3050 m, and contains a 4km diameter crater with several large crater lakes and a warm-water pool.

It rises from the northwest shore of Lake Van, about 30 km north of Tatvan; a tarmac road reaches to the crater rim and continues as a dirt road into the crater, terminating at the largest (cold) lake. Mt. Nemrut is bare of vegetation except in the south part of the crater, which has scrubby oak and birch trees.

The crater lakes are well known for migrating birds, including the rare black velvet scoter; plant life includes several species of fritillary and other bulbs; butterfies also abound. In summer, the crater is inhabited by flocks of goats and sheep with their nomadic shepherd owners, who generally camp near the hot lake. It’s also a popular picnic spot for local families at weekends.

Summer (June-Septemper) is the best season for expeditions up Mt. Nemrut. Treks up Mt. Nemrut begin on the mountain's southeastern flank at Tatvan; it takes 4-5 hours to reach the summit. From the southeast face of the mountain there are wonderful views of Lake Van.

How to get there:
Nearest town, Tatvan, can be reached from Van airport (3 hrs) or by train or bus. See details under Ararat.

Where to Stay:
Tatvan has a choice of suitable hotels; the Selcuklu (0434 412 5697) at Ahlat is a huge but underused hotel right on the lakeshore.