Photographing Nemrut Dagi

Nemrut Dagi is an archaeological site known worldwide. An area that breeds fascination - from the bizarre heads of the gods, the sheer size of the structures, and the incredible location – it truly is one of the most unique locations in the world. It is equally, one of the most photographic location in all of Turkey.

When the last light hits these ancient ruins, and they glow against the background of the huge mountains that don’t dwarf the site, but frame it, this mausoleum is breathtaking. Truly, one of the most magical spots in all of Turkey.

Getting There

To arrive at Nemrut Dagi, I flew into Adiyaman, where I had pre-organised a pick up from my hostel (the Karadut Pension Nemrut). In hindsight, renting a vehicle is the best option, if you are happy to spend more, as it allows you much more freedom to visit the site at different times of the day. As well as the option to explore the rest of the region of Nemrut Dagi National Park. You can start in Kahta, where many people drive from, or from Gazienstep which is a further distance away.

I personally stayed at Karadut Pension Nemrut, which I could not recommend enough as an affordable accommodation option with helpful and lovely staff. I contemplated walking the distance to Nemrut Dagi, but made the decision to pay a small fee for a lift to the top, the right decision in hindsight. After paying for entry to the monument, it is a short, but strenuous 20 minutes of stair-climbing to the first terrace, an amazing scene.

When to Photograph

When asking photographers when the prime time to photograph a location, the answer will normally be sunrise or sunset. Nemrut Dagi is no exception. Whilst it is still spectacular to visit during the middle of the day, the harsh sun and cloudless skies will leave you with fairly unflattering images, that fail to capture the truly mystical atmosphere of this site.

So, sunrise or sunset?

Sunrise will be a much more enjoyable, and quieter experience, will less people around. However, at Nemrut Dagi, sunset is when the light hits the much more natural heads of the Western Terrace. If you can, I highly recommend doing both. If this is unachievable, make sure you give yourself enough time to get a good spot for

when the light gets good.

How to Photograph

When it comes to the technical side of

photographing a location like this, there is not too much to say. A location like Nemrut Dagi, in the right light, will do most of the work for you.

I would recommend using a wide-angle lens, such as a 16-35mm, to help show the scale of these amazing statues. Complimented by a longer lens, with a bit more of a zoom, like a 24-70mm so you can try and create interesting and unique compositions by isolating individual features and playing with depth of field (aperture). These were my favourite shots, as I felt I could create a composition that was compelling and unique (a rare feeling in a place as regularly photographed, and iconic, as Nemrut Dagi)

Other Things to See

When I originally planned my trip to Nemrut Dagi with the intention of photographing the site, I did not plan much else to do. I was blown away by how amazing the rest of the region was, and had one of my favourite days on my trip driving around this incredible and incredible landscape.

Cendere Bridge

An ancient Roman bridge, still in fabulous condition (despite some graffiti) that spans a clear mountain. There is also a stream that makes a fabulous swimming spot just upstream on hot days.

Ruins of the Ancient City of Arsameia

The Ancient City of Arsameia was amazing. You will not find hoards of people and tourist sites on your visit. In fact, I had the whole place to myself when I was there. There is little signage and you are allowed free reign of the site. The, rather precarious cliff top, is dotted with old ruins and inscriptions, as well as a cave that continues to run seemingly endlessly. Photographing this location would be amazing with nice light, but unfortunately, I was only able to visit during a bright and sunny day.

There is also Kahta Castle and Karakus Tumulus which are fascinating and beautiful sites as well.