Open Travel Guide
Attractions in Tunceli

Tunceli Attractions Guide 2026

Tunceli's essential sights and the lesser-known places locals would rather you found.

By Updated

This guide covers 22+ attractions in Tunceli — Munzur Valley National Park, Pertek Castle (Pertek Kalesi) and Mazgirt Rock Tombs & Castle top the list. Every recommendation carries its practical details: typical costs, the best time to visit, and what to know before you commit.

Tunceli is a remote, mountainous province in eastern Turkey, cradled by the Munzur and Mercan mountain ranges. Known historically as Dersim, it is a stronghold of Alevi culture and has one of Turkey's most dramatic landscapes, with rushing rivers, wild gorges, alpine meadows, and the pristine Munzur Valley National Park. It remains one of the least-visited provinces in Turkey, attracting adventurous travelers who seek unspoiled nature, white-water rafting, trekking, and authentic rural hospitality far from the tourist trail.

Top attractions

The most popular and significant attractions in Tunceli.

  1. 1

    Munzur Valley National Park

    National ParkFree entry to park; guided rafting/trekking tours extraFull day to multiple days
  2. 2

    Pertek Castle (Pertek Kalesi)

    Historic CastleBoat transfer ~100 TRY (~$3) round trip2–3 hours
  3. 3

    Mazgirt Rock Tombs & Castle

    Archaeological SiteFree2–3 hours
  4. 4

    Güneş Museum (Dersim Museum)

    History MuseumFree1–2 hours
  5. 5

    Munzur River (Rafting Section)

    Natural Feature / AdventureRafting tours 400–700 TRY/person (~$12–$21)Half day (3–4 hours on river)
  6. 6

    Ovacık Highland Plateau

    Nature / Scenic AreaFreeHalf day to full day
  7. 7

    Pülümür Canyon

    Natural FeatureFreeHalf day
  8. 8

    Uzunçayır Waterfall

    Waterfall / NatureFree1–2 hours
  9. 9

    Çemişgezek Historic Town

    Historic TownFree2–3 hours
  10. 10

    Laçin Village Hot Springs

    Natural Hot SpringsFree1–3 hours

Attractions by category

Explore by your interests.

Items

Hidden gems

Off-the-beaten-path attractions worth seeking out.

Practical information

What you need to know before you go.

Items
ATMs: Several in Tunceli city center (Ziraat, Halkbank, Vakıfbank) — withdraw cash before excursions, Fuel: Only one petrol station in Tunceli city; refuel before heading into valleys, Emergency: Tunceli Devlet Hastanesi (State Hospital) +90 428 213 1010, Tourist info: Tunceli Valiliği (Governor's Office) can advise on road conditions — +90 428 213 1001, Language: English is rarely spoken outside hotels; a phrasebook app is very useful

Tips for visiting attractions

Make the most of your sightseeing time.

Tip

Most outdoor sites around Tunceli are free and require a private car. Download offline maps (Maps.me or Google Maps offline) before leaving the city

Tip

mobile data is unreliable in valleys. Carry cash; no card facilities exist at parks or waterfalls

Frequently asked questions

Is Tunceli safe for tourists?

Yes, for visitors sticking to main tourist sites and the city. Check your government's current travel advisory for eastern Turkey. The city and main valleys are calm; very remote backcountry areas warrant more caution.

Do I need a permit for Munzur Valley National Park?

No permit is needed for general entry. Overnight camping in the park should be arranged with the park directorate in Ovacık: +90 428 311 2126.

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