History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Rising majestically between Bulanık and Malazgirt districts, Bilican Mountains (its peak is approximately 2,950 meters) is the mountain range that hosts the richest transhumance and nomadic shepherd culture in Eastern Anatolia. There are centuries-old stone sheepfolds and plateau camps at the foot of the mountains, where plateau festivals, horse races and fertility prayers have been held since ancient times. According to local legend, it is believed that the crater ponds and ice-cold springs at the peaks of Bilican Mountain are protected by sky fairies. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
The plateaus, which extend between an average altitude of 2,100 - 2,950 meters, are covered with lush green meadows during the summer months, thanks to their rich volcanic soil. Thyme, astragalus, mountain tea and endemic species are abundant in the region. There are small glacial lakes and karst springs on the high slopes of the mountain. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Entrance to the plateau and mountaineering area is completely free.•Visiting Hours and Days:Open 7 days a week; Since it is covered with heavy snow in winter, the most suitable months to visit are June - September.•Rules, Safety and Stroller/Disabled Access: Since it is a high altitude mountainous terrain, windbreakers/warm clothes and hiking boots are essential against weather changes. Not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.•Facilities and Facilities:In summer, there are shepherd tents in the plateau camps; there are no organized commercial facilities; Campers must come with supplies. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Bilican Mountain Range, Yayla Yolu Mevkii, Bulanık / Muş.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: It is 18 km away from Bulanık district center; The foothills are asphalted up to the villages, the road to the plateaus is a stabilized mountain road; SUVs or tall vehicles are recommended.•Real Public Transportation Information: Village minibuses operate from Bulanık to the surrounding plateau villages 1-2 times a day.•Parking Availability:Free parking is possible in unlimited open areas on the plateau plains. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photography Spots and Frames:Panoramic skyline and herds of grazing sheep overlooking Bulanık Plain and Lake Haçlı from the summit slopes.•Light and Shooting Hours:The fog covering the mountain slopes in the early morning hours and the red glow hitting the snowy peaks at sunset.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:Fresh sheep yoghurt, tulum cheese and highland flower honey obtained from the plateau nomads should be tasted.