Discover Hanak

Hanak combines scenic driving routes with cultural and historical themes in the town and its surrounding area. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Hanak, you can first decide which of these interests will take priority during your stay: a drive through the region or the history of its settlements.

Driving routes through Hanak

A 62-kilometre scenic driving route passes through Hanak and İncedere, continuing to Şavşat-Karagöl. A second, 66-kilometre route passes through Hanak and Ortakent to Lake Aktaş and Çıldır. The second route is four kilometres longer, and the destinations listed also differ. When comparing them, consider both the distance and which destinations you would like to include in your route planning. Check road conditions and the availability of each route before setting out.

Historical traces in Hanak

The earliest recorded name for Hanak is “Tariu”; it is derived from Urartian references on the Kırmalar rock inscription. The inscription is considered evidence that sheds light on Hanak’s history. The Selamverdi neighbourhood also contains church ruins regarded as historically valuable.

Places in the surrounding area

In the Middle Ages, the village of Karakale, near Hanak, was a centre of the Ilbeyi; ruins of the old town remain there today. Near Ortakent, in the Kura River valley region, there are cave settlements and a large rock church. These places offer different points of interest: Karakale represents medieval urban history, while Ortakent is known for its cave settlements and rock church.

A route also runs through Harosman Valley in the Ortakent neighbourhood of Hanak District. It includes a river, wooded areas, a valley, a watermill and caves.

Memorial festival and cycling festival

The first Âşık-Mazlumi Memorial Festival in Hanak took place in 2013 and lasted two days. The programme included folk dance performances and concerts by Âşıks. On the first day, the event was held in the town square in front of the governor’s office and the town hall; on the second day, it took place in the Hanak Forest recreation area. The memorial festival in Hanak was held for the third time.

At the Ardahan Cycling Festival, riders covered a 24-kilometre Hanak stage from the Yenisey Campus to the entrance to Hanak. The festival also featured cultural events and local food in the Hanak festival area. The 24-kilometre distance refers to the cycling stage; the 62- and 66-kilometre distances refer to the driving routes. This distinction helps you compare the different types of routes and their lengths.

Climate and travel season

Hanak District has a continental climate, with very cold winters and mild, rainy summers. This seasonal information can help you choose when to travel, especially if driving routes are part of your plans.

Discover more destinations: Ardahan, Çobanlı Köyü.

Return to the main travel overview: Ardahan.