Mount Nemrut (in Turkish “Nemrut Dağı”) is a 2,150-meter-high mountain in Adıyaman Province, southeastern Turkey. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1987. The summit is famous for its giant stone statues and the tomb (tumulus) of King Antiochus I. It is one of Turkey’s most unique historical sites, where visitors can experience the mystery of the ancient world.
Highlights of Mount Nemrut
The Tomb of Antiochus I
Built in the 1st century BC by King Antiochus I of the Kingdom of Commagene, this huge burial mound reflects the king’s grand vision of resting among the gods.
The Giant Statues
At the summit, you will find rows of massive stone heads of Antiochus I and deities such as Zeus, Apollo, and Heracles. Each head is 2–3 meters tall, separated from its body, creating an impressive sight.
Sunrise & Sunset Views
The sunrise and sunset seen between the statues are the most magical experiences at Mount Nemrut. Many visitors come just for this breathtaking moment.
Nearby Attractions
Karakuş Hill（Karakuş Tepesi）
A hill with the tombs of royal women from the Commagene dynasty. The eagle statue on a stone column gave the site its name, meaning “black bird.”
Cendere Bridge (Cendere Köprüsü)
A beautiful Roman stone bridge crossing the Kahta River, blending perfectly with nature.
Arsameia （Arsameia Ören Yeri）
The former summer capital of Commagene, famous for rock inscriptions and a relief showing Antiochus I shaking hands with Heracles.
New Castle (Yeni Kale)
A castle ruin offering panoramic views of the area.
Kahta Castle (Kahta Kalesi)
A mountain fortress later rebuilt during the Ottoman period.
Tours & Routes
Sunrise Tour
- Departure from Kahta around 3:30 AM
- Sunrise at Mount Nemrut
- Visits to Arsameia, Cendere Bridge, Yeni Kale, and Karakuş Tepesi
- Return to Kahta around 9:00–12:00
Day Tour
- Departure around 10:00 AM
- Visits Mount Nemrut and nearby sites
Sunset Tour
- Departure around 2:30 PM
- Visits to Karakuş Tepesi, Cendere Bridge, Yeni Kale, Arsameia
- Sunset at Mount Nemrut
- Return around 9:30 PM
How to Get There
To Kahta
The nearest airport is Adıyaman Airport (ADF), about 15 km away. Minibuses connect the airport with Kahta.
Alternative airports: Şanlıurfa, Malatya, and Gaziantep (1.5–2.5 hours by car).
From Kahta to Mount Nemrut
Joining a local tour from Kahta is the easiest option. It is also possible to come from Malatya, but this usually requires a rental car or private tour. For a weekend trip, Kahta is more convenient.
Accommodation
Staying in Kahta
Convenient for joining tours.
- Kommagene Hotel – Close to the Kahta bus terminal, organizes tours and airport transfers. Communication in English via WhatsApp is available.
👉 Kommagene Hotel Website
Staying near Mount Nemrut
There are a few simple hotels near the mountain, but sometimes there is no hot water. Even the closest hotel is about 5 km from the summit. To reach the top, you will need a car or use a paid shuttle service.
Since there are no restaurants nearby, dinner must be arranged through the hotel or brought with you. The cost is higher than in Kahta, but it is recommended for those who want to enjoy the special atmosphere of the mountain and reduce travel time.
- Nemrut Euphrat Hotel – About 20 minutes by car from the site. Simple but comfortable, with WiFi, hot showers, and even wine and beer.
- Güneş Hotel – The closest hotel (5 km away), but has only cold water and no WiFi.
Local Food in Kahta
- Şabut Fish – A local river fish from the Euphrates, often grilled or salted.
- Adıyaman Kebabı – Juicy kebabs with mild seasoning.
- Çiğ Köfte – A spicy bulgur-based dish (the meatless version is common today), popular as a snack or souvenir.
Best Season
The best time to visit is May to October. In winter, snow often closes access to the site.
What to Bring
Warm clothing for early mornings and evenings, as it gets cold. A hat or scarf for the wind, comfortable shoes, a flashlight, and water are also recommended.
Entrance Fee
As of 2025: 240 TL (about €10) per adult
+100 TL for sunrise or sunset visits.
Sample Weekend Itinerary & Costs
- 11:10 – Flight from Istanbul
- 13:00 – Arrival at Adıyaman Airport, minibus to Kahta (140 TL per person)
- 14:30 – Join sunset tour (2,500 TL for 2 people)
- 19:50 – Arrive at Nemrut Euphrat Hotel
- 21:00 – Hotel check-in (3,400 TL with breakfast)
- 04:00 – Sunrise tour (2,500 TL)
- 07:00 – Return to hotel, breakfast and rest
- 11:00 – Checkout, transfer to Adıyaman Airport (€60)
- 13:45 – Flight to Istanbul
- 15:45 – Arrive in Istanbul
Conclusion
Mount Nemrut is a world heritage site perfect for a weekend trip. With its giant statues, stunning sunrise and sunset views, and nearby ancient ruins, it offers a truly unique travel experience. Add local food and friendly hospitality, and it becomes a must-visit for anyone living in or traveling through Turkey.