Tatvan is a district of Bitlis Province on the western shore of Lake Van. The nearby Mount Nemrut (sharing its name with, but geologically distinct from, the Commagene Nemrut in Adıyaman) holds in its crater one of the world's largest crater lakes, Nemrut Crater Lake. The lake formed when a depression created by volcanic explosions filled with water.
The region is also surrounded by historical traces such as the Seljuk-era Ahlat cemetery; the formation of Lake Van itself is attributed to lava from this volcanic region blocking a valley.
Highlights
Crater lake
A lake formed inside a volcanic crater, known for its scenery and hot springs.
Lake Van shoreline
Tatvan sits at the western end of Turkey's largest lake, with a long lakeside coastline.
Volcanic geology
The region offers one of the most striking volcanic landscapes in Eastern Anatolia.
Proximity to the Seljuk cemetery of Ahlat
Regional tours often combine the Tatvan-Ahlat-Van route.