If you’re looking for an authentic and untouched travel destination in Turkey, Ermenek in Karaman Province should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the majestic foothills of the Taurus Mountains, Ermenek offers breathtaking scenery, historical treasures, and warm Turkish hospitality far from the crowds of mass tourism.
The city has a population of around 12,000, and with its districts, approximately 27,000 people reside there.
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Ermenek – A Town in the light of Cultural History
Even upon approaching Ermenek, all your senses tell you that this small town is something very special. Nestled directly into the light-reflecting cliff face, every single minute of daylight creates its own unique atmosphere. Add to that the constantly changing colors of the lake, which alone makes it worth lingering here and letting time slip away. Naturally, sunrises and sunsets here have a special effect on the soul of the observer.
As you get to know the town better over time, learn more about Ermenek’s cultural history, and realize that you are standing directly beneath the exposed cave settlements and burial sites, all the expectations you had when you arrived here will shift. If you are lucky enough to stay here for a few days and discover the many exposed and hidden relics of the past, some of which are still in their original state, the image you previously had of Turkey will change.
Pure Nature: The Ermenek Dam Lake
One of the most stunning places in the region is the Ermenek Dam (Ermenek Barajı) – one of the deepest reservoirs in Turkey since 2010. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and dense forests, the turquoise lake is perfect for boat tours, fishing, and peaceful days in nature. Adventurous visitors can enjoy kayaking or hiking along the steep banks. Exploring the approximately 11km long canyon up to the source and the evidence of the Crusader era will remain impressively in your memory.
Since the dam serves as a drinking water supply, nature conservation is a top priority here. Motorized water sports are not permitted, which only serves to enhance the recreational value of the area.
Historical Legacy: The Underground City of Zeyve
Just a few kilometres from Ermenek lies the mysterious Zeyve Valley, home to a natural water park with over 300 small springs and traces of an ancient underground city. Thought to date back to Byzantine times, it may have served as a hiding place during invasions – a rare archaeological discovery!
Zeyve Pazarı (Zeyve bazaar) is a historic open-air marketplace nestled between the villages of İkizçınar and Yaylapazarı, approximately 26 km from Ermenek. Established over 500 years ago, it has become a unique natural and cultural heaven.Dating back to the 15th century, Zeyve Pazarı has served as a central gathering point for local communities. Its longevity and preservation make it a rare example of Anatolian marketplaces that have maintained their traditional charm over centuries.
Ancient Plane Trees: The area is home to over 300 monumental plane trees, some of which are over 800 years old, providing ample shade and contributing to the serene atmosphere.
Zeyve Stream: Originating 300 meters above the marketplace, this stream cascades into small waterfalls, creating a tranquil setting for visitors.
Traditional Water Mills: Though less active today, the remnants of historic water mills and sawmills add to the area’s rustic charm.
Bungalow Accommodations: For those wishing to immerse themselves in nature, nearby bungalow villages offer comfortable stays amidst the greenery.
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The Maraspoli Cave: A Place of Legends
The Maraspoli Cave, also known as the “Pigeon Cave,” is one of the most fascinating natural wonders in the region. Local legends claim the cave once sheltered a lost kingdom. Today, it attracts adventurers and geologists eager to explore its deep tunnels and underground water systems. Maraspoli Cave, also known as Meraspolis Cave, is a remarkable natural formation in the Ermenek district of Karaman Province, Turkey. It’s considered one of the largest known caves in the world, with a length of approximately 3,750 meters.
Maraspoli Cave has served various purposes throughout history. It was used as a shelter, refuge, and dungeon in ancient times. The cave has two known entrances: one is a natural opening, while the other is a man-made gallery located in Başpınar Mahallesi, constructed by the Ermenek Municipality to supply drinking water to the town.
The cave houses an underground river crucial to the region’s water supply. This river provides drinking water to Ermenek and the surrounding towns. Additionally, it powers a hydroelectric power plant that supplies electricity to the area.
Cave houses and hidden churches
In the steep canyons and rock formations surrounding Ermenek, ancient cave dwellings and ruins of hidden churches carved into the cliffs—some dating back to Byzantine times—are found.
The region was a significant cultural centre for Byzantine Christians between the 3rd and 8th centuries, featuring remains of churches, monasteries, and dwellings integrated into the landscape.
Stone Graves
The stone graves carved into the mountains of Ermenek, Karaman, are known as rock tombs, and several notable examples can be found in the region.
- 1. Firan Castle Necropolis: Located on the slopes of Firan Castle, this ancient necropolis dates back to the 3rd century b.c..
- 2. Ancient City of Sibide (Yukarıçağlar): In Yukarıçağlar, the ancient city of Sibide features numerous burial chambers carved into the rock. Among the findings is a marble sarcophagus from the 3rd century BCE, adorned with inscriptions and decorative wreaths.
- 3. Gökçeseki Archaeological Site: Situated in Gökçeseki Village, this site encompasses two hills with rock tombs on their northern and southern slopes.
- 4. Güneyyurt (Formerly Gargara): In the town of Güneyyurt, previously known as Gargara, an ancient shrine is carved into the rocks. It features sculptures of lions, bulls, and a snake.
These rock tombs are significant archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into the ancient civilisations once inhabited the Ermenek region.
Turkish Hospitality & Cuisine
Turkey often ranks high in traveller forums and articles as one of the friendliest countries. Foreigners frequently recount unexpectedly warm interactions, such as shopkeepers refusing to charge them for small items or strangers helping them navigate the city.
The word “misafirperverlik” means Guest-first mentality. This is how local people host their guests, a guest sent by God.
Another highlight is Spontaneous Generosity. Whether in a village or a big city, it’s common to be invited into a local’s home for tea (çay), a meal, or even to stay overnight, especially if you’re travelling. As the Paragliding-Turkey team, we can tell you much about Turkish Hospitality, which we have seen during our 12000km Discover-Turkey Tour.
Ermenek is famous for its apricots, figs, and especially homemade grape molasses (Pekmez). In the nearby villages, you can stay with local families and enjoy traditional dishes, often cooked in wood-fired ovens. A regional favourite is Batırık, a cold dish made with bulgur and tomatoes, perfect for hot summer days.
For example, Batırık is a no-cook, hand-kneaded salad made primarily from fine bulgur (locally known as düğürcük), combined with fresh vegetables, herbs, and either walnuts or ground meat. It can be served in two forms: as shaped patties (sıkma) or diluted with cold water to create a chilled, soup-like dish. The dish is deeply rooted in Ermenek’s culinary heritage, with variations across the Taşeli region.
Ingredients
While recipes can vary, a classic Ermenek-style Batırık typically includes:
- Fine bulgur (about 1 cup per person)
- Crushed walnuts (or ground meat for a meat-based version)
- Ripe tomatoes (fresh or rehydrated dried tomatoes)
- Onion
- Parsley
- Fresh basil (essential for authentic flavour)
- Green peppers
- Salt and red pepper flakes
- Lemon juice
- Optional additions: tahini, sesame seeds, peanuts, or dried herbs.
Some versions add tahini and peanut butter to enhance the flavour profile. Fresh vegetables like cucumbers, lettuce, and vine or cabbage leaves often accompany the dish
Bedouins
If you’re lucky, you might encounter one of Turkey’s last two authentic Bedouin tribes here. Depending on the season, they travel between Ermenek and Anamur. If you’re lucky and they’re in the area at the same time as you, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy their traditional hospitality.
Hiking, Climbing & Recharging
The area around Ermenek is ideal for trekking, mountain biking, or simply relaxing. The air is clean, and the summer climate is pleasantly mild, perfect for a digital detox. Ermenek Canyon also offers spectacular views and is a hidden spot for climbers seeking a challenge.
And of course Paragliding ;-)
Ermenek is one of our top favourite destinations for Paragliding in Turkey. More info you will find here:
