15.06.2026 16:11
Efforts to declare Nemrut Caldera, located within the borders of Bitlis's Tatvan district and holding the title of Turkey's largest and the world's second largest crater lake, as a 'national park' are nearing completion. Bitlis Governor Ahmet Karakaya stated that the necessary processes are almost finished, saying, "We expect the 'national park' declaration to be published in the Official Gazette within a few weeks."
Nemrut Caldera, which holds the 'Excellence' award under the European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN), welcomes thousands of visitors every year with its hot and cold lakes at an altitude of 2,250 meters, ice caves, steam chimneys, and unique natural beauties. With the start of the summer season, the density of visitors in the region has visibly increased.
"NEMRUT IS THE REGION'S GATEWAY TO THE WORLD"
Bitlis Governor Ahmet Karakaya, who visited Nemrut Caldera, made statements about the ongoing work in the region. Stating that the caldera is not only Bitlis's but also one of the region's most important tourism assets, Karakaya said, "Nemrut Caldera and Crater Lake welcome thousands of domestic and foreign visitors every year with their natural beauties. This place is not only a gateway for our province but also for our region to the world."
NATIONAL PARK PROCESS NEARS COMPLETION
Stating that the ongoing work for about two years has reached its final stage, Karakaya said significant progress has been made within the scope of the process carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change. Karakaya said, "We expect the national park declaration to be published in the Official Gazette within a few weeks. We conducted inspections in the region with our Minister of Agriculture and Forestry last year. Then the process accelerated, and necessary support was provided. Some work will start this year. We aim to complete most of the projects next year. We are acting in line with the plans prepared by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks."
WILL CONTRIBUTE TO BITLIS TOURISM
Stating that the cleanliness, infrastructure, and visitor services of Nemrut Caldera will be further improved, Karakaya said the investments to be made will make significant contributions to Bitlis tourism. Karakaya stated, "Nemrut Caldera will reach a much better point for both our fellow citizens of Bitlis and our guests from our country and all around the world."
After Nemrut Caldera, one of Turkey's most important natural heritage sites, gains national park status, the number of visitors to the region is expected to increase and make a significant contribution to Bitlis's economy.