Suphan Mountain 4058 m., a magnificent dormant volcano rises from the Northwest shores of Lake Van. Throughout the winter, snowfalls on Suphan reach a depth of three to four meters. The mountain’s steeply inclined slopes and snow blanket combine to make it a good location for “Heli skiing” using helicopters to drop you off on the slopes for an adventure of high mountain skiing.
Trips and Climbs
The easily accessible Southern and Eastern flanks of Suphan, both offering spectacular views, are the preferred faces for ascending the mountain. To climb from the Eastern flank take the coast road that circles Lake Van. In the stretch between Adilcevaz and Ercis, turn North to Aydinlar village. From there you continue on to Kicgilli village where you can hire a guide to lead you in your ascent. The climb from the South begins at the village of Harmantepe.
Height: 4058 m
Location: North of Lake Van in Eastern Anatolia, between Adilcevaz – Ercis and Patnos.
Best Time to Climb: Between June and September
Characteristics: Mt. Suphan, an inactive volcano, is the third highest peak in Turkey. Its peak is glacier-covered.
Transport: There is air, railway and road transport to Erzurum and/or Van. From there, go to Adilcevaz via of Ercis.
Climbing: The ascent up Mt. Suphan is generally made on the eastern face, with a marvellous view of Lake Van, and begins at the village of Aydinlar. Camp is set up at the Sekerpinari or Suphan plateau, 6-7 km from the village and up 2500 m. It takes 8-10 hours to climb up to the peak and come back to camp.