Setting off from Kahta after midnight to watch the sun rise among the statues of the gods is one of the most unforgettable mornings in Türkiye. On the way back, more traces of the Kingdom of Commagene: Arsameia, the Cendere Bridge and the Karakuş Tumulus.
Things to experience at least once in Türkiye: the Eastern Express and the train to Lake Van, sunrise on Mount Nemrut, the Lycian Way, a Blue Cruise, the sunken city of Kekova, the Hittite capital, Selimiye and Kırkpınar, and skiing on Erciyes and Palandöken. We don't sell train, boat or ski tickets; each route links to the official sales channel. Places where seasons and hours may change carry a "check before you go" notice.
Getting there / tickets: Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism · museums and archaeological sites
AnatoliaPass does not sell these tickets; we send you to the official sales channel. Check prices and departure days there before you go.
Start: Kahta (hotel) · stay 10 min
To catch the sunrise you set off around 2–3 am; the drive takes about 1–1.5 hours.
Sunrise time changes with the season; arrange the departure time with your hotel.
≈ 1 hour 15 min by car + 30–40 min walk · stay 120 min
The tumulus and statues of Antiochus I; the sunrise is watched from the East Terrace, then you walk to the colossal heads on the West Terrace. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hours and prices change with the season; check with the official source before you go.
≈ 30 min by car · stay 45 min
The summer capital of Commagene: the relief of Heracles shaking hands with King Mithridates and a long tunnel cut into the rock.
Hours and prices change with the season; check with the official source before you go.
≈ 10 min by car · stay 25 min
A single-arched stone bridge with columns, built in the Roman period in the 2nd century AD; still standing and open to pedestrians.
≈ 10 min by car · stay 25 min
A tumulus built for royal women of Commagene; known for its columns topped by an eagle statue.
≈ 2 h 15 min · fast ferry + bus · Day trip
Why here: The first Ottoman capital. The Green Mosque, the Grand Mosque and Koza Han make an easy day trip; we suggest it if you are staying in Istanbul for more than four days. Not part of this route.
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Source: Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı (1947–2026)
Source: Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı (1947–2026)
