Things to Do in Kurdistan
Kurdistan has sun, snow, beautiful mountain ranges, rugged wilderness, peaceful landscapes and significant archeological sites. Kurdistan is a beautiful escape for adventure travelers to explore the wilderness and for tourists to visit ancient ruins and experience Kurdish hospitality and warmth in a safe environment.
Visit Archaeological sites
Kurdistan has more than 1,300 known archaeological sites. Among the most famous is the Erbil citadel, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the world, which has been settled since 6,000 BC.
Another is the Shanidar cave, where nine Neanderthal skeletons were found dating between 60-80,000 years. The cave is in Bradost mountain, in Erbil province. It was excavated between 1957-1961 by Ralph Solecki and his team from Columbia University and yielded the first adult Neanderthal skeletons in Iraq.
Erbil and Sulaimani each have a museum showcasing artifacts from the Region, while Dohuk Traditional Museum displays Kurdistan’s folklore and heritage.
Relax at Mountainside Resorts and Lakes
Just outside the capital city of Erbil there are breathtaking mountains, deep valleys and peaceful lakes. Travelers can explore and relax at one of Kurdistan’s beautiful resorts or hike, mountain climb, canoe, ski and go white water rafting.
The town of Shaqlawa, about 30 miles from the capital Erbil, lies at the base of Mount Safeen which is nearly 6561 feet high at its peak. It has several fruit orchards, a food market, restaurants and hotels. Further away deeper into the mountains and gorges, Gali Ali Beg and Bekhal waterfalls and the water source at Jundyan offer beautiful scenery and a place to stop and enjoy lunch or a drink at the outdoor restaurants, or simply sit down to enjoy your own picnic in a quiet spot.
At Haji Umran, where you will find the Kurdistan Region’s highest mountains, the spa water is renowned locally for treating ailments and the highlands usually remain green through summer.
About 40 miles from Sulaimani, the picturesque Dokan and Derbendikhan lakes are lined with cabins for visitors to enjoy boating or swimming. The lakes are a result of hydroelectric power dams built decades ago.
At Ahmadawa, east of Sulaimani, springs form several waterfalls surrounded by walnut, pomegranate and fig trees, attracting visitors to their cool shade.
In Dohuk province at Silav resort, open-air restaurants provide a view looking up to the nearby ancient town of Amedi (Amadiya), which sits atop a one mile wide plateau. Muslims and Christians have lived alongside each other for centuries in this small town. In former times, it was also home to a thriving Jewish community. Amadiya offers a wonderful view of the nearby valleys and gorges.
The Pank Resort is under construction in the small town of Rawandoz, which was the capital of Soran principality until the 19th century. The resort already boasts a roller-coaster sledge ride.
The best time to visit Kurdistan is March when people celebrate Nawroz, the New Year marked by the spring equinox, by having picnics and dancing in the hills and valleys. In October and November, the weather is very pleasant and still warm enough to enjoy sightseeing.
Museums, Culture and the Arts
Erbil and Sulaimani each have a museum holding collections of artifacts from the Region, while Dohuk Traditional Museum displays Kurdistan’s folklore and heritage.
Inside the ancient citadel of Erbil, you will find a beautiful traditional rugs and textiles at the Kurdish Textile Museum. The museum also showcases and preserves textile techniques by traditional tribes and endangered nomads of Kurdistan.
Video: To watch a Voice of America report on the Kurdish Textile Museum’s work, please Click here
Erbil also benefits from an archeological museum and near the town centre is the Sheikh Chooli Minaret, built by Sultan Mozafaredin between 543 and 586 AD and inscribed with Kufic caligraphy. Sami Abdul Rahman Park is the ideal place to enjoy greenery, peace and quiet without having to leave the city.
Sulaimani, Kurdistan’s cultural capital, has a bustling bazaar as well as the modern Altun shopping center.
Additional Erbil Attractions:
Bekhal waterfalls is an irrigation system from about 700 years BC.
Sami Abdul Rahman Park is a large municipal park built on the site of a former Ba’ath military base.
Qaysari bazaar is Erbil city’s traditional market and sells household goods, food, textiles, gold and souvenirs.
Sheikh Chooli minaret is located in the western district of Erbil and was built by Sultan Mudhaffarudeen and dates back to 543-586 AD. The minaret is the focal point for the recently developed Minara Park.
Khanzad castle is located on the Erbil – Shaqlawa road and dates back to the Soran Period when the Region was ruled by several principalities.
Rabban Beya monastery is a one-hour climb over mountain paths. There are two large highly engraved cave-like chambers that date back to the fourth century AD.
Shaqlawa resort is north of Erbil and is a popular weekend and holiday destination with a great fresh produce market.
Gali Ali Beg ravine and waterfall is 80 miles from Erbil, a popular place for recreational picnics.
Bekhal Resort is another water resort 86 miles from Erbil and a short drive from Gali Ali Berg.
Dohuk Attractions:
Saint Ith Llaha Church, just west of Dohuk, is oldest church in the region and dates back to 500AD.
Amadiyah town, 55 miles north east of Dohuk, dates back to the Assyrian Period and is a former principality.
Amadiyah’s minaret is 98 feet high, with views from the top of the nearby mountains and valleys.
Amadiyah citadel is located on the eastern side of Amadiyah city.
Sulaimani Attractions:
Sulaimani museum, located on Salim Street, houses local items that date back thousands of years. It is one of the richest museums in the Region.
Dokan lake, 43 miles west of Sulaimani, is a local resort with hotels, restaurants and holiday chalets.
Darbandikhan dam 40 miles south east of Sulaimani also has tourist cabins, restaurants, leisure facilities.
Ahmadawa resort, 52 miles from Sulaimani, is known for its springs, waterfalls and orchards and is a popular summer escape for locals and tourists.
