PLACES TO VISIT

Overview of Sarıkamış

Sarıkamış, connected to Kars province in Eastern Anatolia, is located on a high plateau reaching 1500–2000 meters. A large part of the district is covered with yellow pine forests, and this extensive forest texture gives the region both natural beauty and a special climate feature. In Sarıkamış, where continental climate prevails, winters are long, cold and rainy; summers are short and cool. Low temperatures enable the formation of a special snow structure known as "crystal snow" in the region. This snow type offers great advantages especially for skiing sports, as it has the same characteristics as the dry and powdery structure usually seen in the Alps.

Sarıkamış is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its deep historical past. The Sarıkamış Operation that took place in 1914-1915 has placed this region among the painful but unforgettable pages of history. The martyrdom and monuments built in memory of tens of thousands of Ottoman soldiers who froze to death are among the places that visitors to Sarıkamış must see today. These monuments, rising in the silence of snow-capped mountains, offer a powerful atmosphere both historically and spiritually.

Historical and Cultural Places

Sarıkamış offers its visitors a rich opportunity for discovery with its historical structures and cultural heritage.

Katerina Hunting Lodge is one of the best-known structures in the region. This wooden lodge, built during the reign of Russian Tsar Nicholas II, attracts great attention with its architecture made entirely without nails. The structure, which bears the characteristics of Baltic architecture, creates a fairy-tale image within the yellow pine forests.

Ancient structure ruins such as the Micingirt, Zivin, Kızlar and Köroğlu castles located around the region carry the traces of past civilizations to the present day. These castles, integrated with nature, offer unique views for both photographers and history enthusiasts.

Another important historical structure of Sarıkamış is the Kazım Karabekir Mosque, formerly known as Yanık Church. The structure, built as a church during the Russian period, was later converted into a mosque. This building, which is one of the impressive examples of Baltic stonework, is a work that must be seen for architecture enthusiasts.

The martyrdom and memorial areas dedicated to the 1914-1915 Sarıkamış Operation are also among the historical stops of the region. Especially the martyrdom in the Allahuekber Mountains are areas that deeply feel the historical importance of Sarıkamış. The commemoration events and walks held every year ensure that this history is not forgotten.

Ski Center and Winter Tourism

One of the first places that comes to mind when Sarıkamış is mentioned is undoubtedly the Sarıkamış Ski Center. The ski center, established in the Bayraktepe region, provides an ideal environment for winter sports with its altitude varying between 2100 and 2900 meters. The wide ski slopes passing through the yellow pine forests offer great advantages both in terms of scenery and safe skiing.

The center has long slopes with different difficulty levels, chairlift lines, ski schools and equipment rental points. In the region, there are various accommodation options from five-star hotels to boutique mountain hotels, apartments and pensions.

The most striking feature of Sarıkamış Ski Center is its crystal snow structure. This powdery snow does not deteriorate even on sunny days and creates a soft surface without increasing the slipperiness of the slopes. This snow structure, suitable for snowboarding, slalom, Nordic discipline and sledding sports, makes Sarıkamış one of Turkey's highest quality ski centers.

The Snow Festival held every year adds color to the social atmosphere of the ski center. Snow sculptures, sled races and shows attract the interest of both local people and visitors.

Nature Activities: Hiking, Picnicking and Nature Parks

Sarıkamış offers rich options not only for winter tourism but also for four-season nature tourism. There are many hiking trails around the yellow pine forests, plateaus and valleys. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy pleasant trekking experiences, especially on the routes between the Ski Center and Katerina Lodge.

One of the most visited natural areas of the district is Soğuksu Nature Park. The park, equipped with picnic areas, hiking trails and viewing points, is ideal for families, nature photographers and those who want to spend a quiet day. It is possible to observe squirrels, partridges and various bird species in the region.

Çemçimen Plateau, Keklik Valley and wide forest areas are other important points for those who want to spend time in nature. There are also suitable trails for those who want to do snowshoeing in the winter months.

Accommodation and Dining

Sarıkamış has a very wide range in terms of accommodation. Hotels located at the ski center receive intense interest, especially during the winter season. Pensions and apartment hotels in the district center are the types of accommodation preferred by visitors looking for economical options.

Sarıkamış cuisine reflects the rich food culture of the Kars region. Regional soups, pastries, hıngel, potato gözleme, stuffed apples and umaç halva are among the most preferred flavors. Dishes made from goose and lamb meat frequently find a place on the tables in the winter months. Local breakfasts make the visit to the region even more enjoyable.

Transportation and Practical Information

Transportation to Sarıkamış is quite comfortable both by air and road. Kars Harakani Airport is approximately one hour away from the district. Erzurum Airport can be preferred as an alternative route. Regular bus and minibus services are available from Kars city center to Sarıkamış.

Since there is heavy snowfall in winter, it is important for those coming by private vehicle to have chains and winter tires. There are markets, pharmacies and basic needs points in the district center. Since the winter months are very cold, visitors are advised to come with warm clothing.