Is the road to Çalyan Tepe and Lake Çalyan difficult to drive?
Çalyan Tepe is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,913m (9,557ft) above sea level, located in southeastern Turkey. Situated on the border between the Van and Şırnak provinces, it is one of the highest roads in the country.
The pass is located in a rugged and remote region of the Taurus Mountains. One of the main highlights near the summit is a stunning high-altitude lagoon known as Lake Çalyan (Çalyan Gölü). The area is characterized by a barren, lunar landscape where snow lingers well into the summer months. Due to its extreme isolation, the road offers a raw adventure for off-road enthusiasts, but it remains a place where self-sufficiency is mandatory.
| Road facts: Çalyan Tepe | |
|---|---|
| Location | Van & Şırnak Provinces (Turkey) |
| Elevation | 2,913m (9,557ft) |
| Length | 29 km (18 miles) |
| Max Gradient | 12% |
| Surface | Gravel / Unpaved |
How challenging is the road to Çalyan Tepe?
The road through the pass is entirely unpaved and requires a 4WD vehicle with high clearance. The track is 29 km (18 miles) long, running in a north-south direction from the settlement of Topyıldız (Gürpınar district in Van) to Yeşilöz (Beytüşşebap district in Şırnak). Driving here is a technical challenge, as the route features several sharp hairpin turns and steep sections with gradients hitting 12%. The surface is often loose gravel, which can become treacherous during thunderstorm activity or when ice and snow accumulate.
What are the conditions at the Çalyan Tepe summit?
Reaching the summit is a journey through one of the most untouched parts of eastern Anatolia. Because of the high altitude, the pass is usually closed for a large part of the year due to heavy snowfall. Even in late spring, the track can be muddy and difficult to navigate. If you decide to drive this route, ensure your vehicle is in top condition and you are prepared for sudden weather changes. The proximity to Lake Çalyan makes the grueling climb worth the effort, offering a peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere far from any paved civilization.