A province of mountains
Hakkari borders Iran to the east and Iraq to the south, and is one of Türkiye's most mountainous provinces. Most of its land is mountain, with an average altitude of about 2,000 metres. Its districts are Merkez (Centre), Yüksekova, Şemdinli, Çukurca and Derecik.
Nature and tourism
- The Cilo and Sat Mountains: Home to Uludoruk, one of Türkiye's highest peaks, and glaciers that draw mountaineers.
- The Zap Valley: Deep canyons and dramatic scenery.
- Winter sports: Long winters with snow up to 2 metres deep, and the Mergabütan Ski Centre.
- The upside-down tulip: The "weeping bride" that decorates the highlands in spring. Upside-Down Tulip
History and culture
- Meydan Madrasa: One of Hakkari's most important historic places of learning.
- Historic mosques and old church ruins reflecting the region's multicultural past.
Economy
- Farming: Wheat, barley, tobacco and rice; walnuts, apples, apricots, pomegranates and figs.
- Beekeeping: Honey from around Şemdinli is especially famous.
- Livestock and dairy.
- Mining: Zinc, lead and other deposits.
- Small industry: Building materials, food, furniture and PVC products.
Getting there
- Esendere (Serow) border crossing: Connects via Yüksekova to Urmia in Iran.
- Yüksekova Airport: Flights to major cities.
- Linked to Van by road.
Investment priorities
Mining, beekeeping and bee products, winter tourism and outdoor sports.