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Erzurum-Kars Plateau

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

plateau

Weather…

The Erzurum-Kars Plateau is situated in northeastern Anatolia, forming one of the highest and coldest highland regions in Turkey. Geographically, it consists of expansive volcanic plains at an average elevation exceeding 2,000 meters, rimmed by high mountain ranges. Historically, the plateau was a strategic junction on the Silk Road and a frequent battlefield between the Ottoman and Russian Empires. The city of Kars, known for its distinctive Russian-style architecture, and the ruins of Ani, the 'City of 1001 Churches,' reflect its diverse cultural history. The climate is intensely continental, featuring prolonged, snowy winters that have helped develop the region into a major winter sports hub at Palandöken. The local economy is traditionally rooted in livestock farming and dairy production, with Kars cheese being a prominent national specialty.

Location: Turkey
Nearby: Sarıkamış (48 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-9	-7	-1	4	10	14	18	18	14	8	0	-6
Rain mm	35	27	38	61	79	68	53	42	33	53	34	35

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

This elevated terrain is best accessed from the regional hubs of Erzurum and Kars, which feature reliable transport links. Well-maintained mountain roads provide the main arteries into the higher, more isolated sectors.

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Best season

Summer, strictly from July to August, is typically the only window for comfortable general tourism without snow. The infamous icy and prolonged winters dominate most of the year, appealing strictly to specialized winter adventurers.

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Terrain & paths

The environment consists of severe, high-altitude alpine plains bordered by jagged volcanic mountains. The ground is often rocky and challenging, requiring heavy-duty trekking boots even during the warmer, snow-free months.

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What to bring

Layered thermal clothing and extreme windproof jackets are absolutely mandatory, regardless of the precise season. Visitors must also carry emergency thermal blankets and high-calorie rations due to the sheer remoteness.

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Parking

Safe parking spaces can primarily be found in the designated lots of Erzurum or Kars city centers. Venturing deeper into the plateau means parking is limited to makeshift spots near rural villages or local trailheads.

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Safety

The primary hazards include sudden whiteout blizzards in winter and severe wind-chill factors year-round. Always inform local authorities or accommodation providers of your specific travel route before departing into the wilderness.

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Time needed

Dedicate at least two to four days to carefully explore the cultural landmarks and natural vistas of this rugged expanse. The slow pace of high-altitude travel naturally extends the time required for any meaningful itinerary.

Geography

Coordinates

40.50000, 43.00000

Facts

The average elevation of the plateau ranges between 1,800 and 2,000 meters.
Erzurum is among the coldest cities in Turkey, with record temperatures dropping below -35°C.
The UNESCO site of Ani served as the capital of the Armenian Kingdom during the 10th and 11th centuries.
Palandöken ski resort features one of the longest continuous ski slopes in Europe at 12 km.
The region is famous for 'Kars Gravyer,' a Gruyère-style cheese produced since the late 19th century.
Kars Castle was originally constructed in 1153 by the Saltukid Seljuks.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Sarıkamış-Allahuekber Mountains National Park39 km · SExplore →

Sarıkamış48 km · SExplore →

Lake Çıldır53 km · NEExplore →

Ani64 km · NExplore →

Vardzia78 km · NEExplore →

Lake Arpi82 km · NEExplore →

Khertvisi Fortress85 km · EExplore →

Karagöl-Sahara National Park86 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Erzurum-Kars Plateau (1)

Akbaba Dağı

Akbaba Dağı is a mountain in Turkey, located on the Erzurum-Kars Plateau.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Erzurum-Kars plateau known for?

It is known for its harsh winter landscape and winter sports opportunities.

Can I ski there?

Yes, Palandöken near Erzurum is a well-known ski resort.

What historical site is nearby?

The ruins of Ani are absolutely worth seeing.

How cold is it in winter?

It can get extremely cold; temperatures well below freezing are common.

When should one visit the plateau?

Winter for winter sports, summer for trekking.

Erzurum-Kars Plateau: where is it located?

Erzurum-Kars Plateau is located in Turkey.

Erzurum-Kars Plateau: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Erzurum-Kars Plateau: why is it worth visiting?

The Erzurum-Kars Plateau is situated in northeastern Anatolia, forming one of the highest and coldest highland regions in Turkey.

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