Nallıhan
Nallıhan is a world-class eco-tourism and birdwatching sanctuary. Key highlights include the Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary (Nallıhan Kuş Cenneti—a international RAMSAR-standard wetland hosting over 200 bird species beneath colorful rainbow-striped clay hills), Nasuh Paşa Caravanserai, Taptuk Emre Tomb in Emremtsultan village, Uyuzsuyu Waterfall, and historic silk iğne oyası (needle lace) workshops.
Tourist experience
Nallıhan is a world-class eco-tourism and birdwatching sanctuary. Key highlights include the Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary (Nallıhan Kuş Cenneti—a international RAMSAR-standard wetland hosting over 200 bird species beneath colorful rainbow-striped clay hills), Nasuh Paşa Caravanserai, Taptuk Emre Tomb in Emremtsultan village, Uyuzsuyu Waterfall, and historic silk iğne oyası (needle lace) workshops.
Key points of interest
Investment outlook
Nallıhan's economy combines energy generation (Çayırhan Lignite Thermal Power Plant) with silk needle lace crafts, commercial fruit/vegetable farming, and eco-tourism hospitality. Opportunities exist in wetland eco-lodges, renewable energy, cold storage, and traditional textile exports.
Living here
Nallıhan offers a peaceful, scenic, and culturally proud town lifestyle. Surrounded by colorful geological hills, lakes, and pine forests 160 km northwest of Ankara, residents enjoy clean air, rich local silk crafts, and warm community solidarity.
History & cultural identity
Nallıhan holds a deep historic legacy along the ancient Silk Road route connecting Ankara to Istanbul. Known historically as Nallı-Han after the horseshoe-embellished Ottoman caravanserai constructed in 1599 by Ottoman Vizier Nasuh Paşa, the town blossomed as an essential trade post, traditional silk-weaving enclave, and spiritual center associated with Sufi saint Taptuk Emre and Yunus Emre.
Frequently asked questions
What species can be seen at Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary?+
Over 200 species including black storks, flamingos, herons, and rare migratory waterfowl nest in Nallıhan.
What handicraft is Nallıhan world-famous for?+
Nallıhan is world-famous for traditional Silk Needle Lace (Nallıhan İğne Oyası).
How far is Nallıhan from central Ankara?+
Nallıhan is located approximately 160 kilometers northwest of central Ankara along the D140 highway.