The first passengers of the Touristic Tatvan Train arrived in Tatvan

The ‘Touristic Tatvan Train’, which aims to be the new route of tourism, has arrived in Tatvan on its first journey.

Yesterday, the ‘Touristic Tatvan Train’, which was bid farewell to in Ankara, was welcomed in Tatvan as part of its first journey between Ankara and Tatvan. The train, welcomed in a ceremony by the chamber delegation, provincial and district protocol with drums, pipes, and flowers, carries a team of 140 people including press members, influencers, and special guests who will explore the historical and natural beauties of the city for 3 days.

Speaking at the welcoming ceremony, Bitlis Governor Erol Karaömeroğlu stated that the start of the new train service is an important and significant step to introduce Bitlis’ natural beauties, historical riches, and cultural heritage. Karaömeroğlu emphasized that Bitlis, with its more than 760 registered structures, is an ancient city carrying the feature of a ‘museum city’, and highlighted the attractions awaiting visitors such as Mount Suphan, which is the third highest mountain in Turkey with snow on its summit all year round, Ahlat known as the ‘City of Tranquility’ from the Kubbet-ul Islam, Ahlat Seljuk Cemetery listed on UNESCO’s Temporary World Heritage List, the Tomb of Muhammad Küfrevi, a beloved companion of Sultan Abdulhamid II, the Tomb of Feyzullah El Ensari, brother of Eyüp Sultan in Istanbul, the historic inns and baths in the city.

Expressing gratitude to those who contributed to the realization of this project and to the Chairman of Eren Holding, Ahmet Eren, Karaömeroğlu stated, ‘Such projects are significant steps to promote the beauties of every corner of our country and develop tourism. I welcome all our guests once again. I wish you a pleasant time. I hope that the enchanting journey from Ankara to Bitlis will lead to new friendships and beautiful memories.’

Mayor Tanğlay emphasized that the touristic train, which set off on June 24, completed its first journey, stating that the passengers have arrived in the ancient city of Bitlis with a history of 7,000 years.

Tanğlay expressed that the guests will accumulate beautiful memories in Bitlis and said, ‘We are delighted to welcome the tourism train. Under the leadership of our Governor, we will ensure its continuity. On behalf of our city, I welcome you all. As you leave here as goodwill ambassadors, you will narrate Bitlis to all your friends you meet. I wish you a pleasant journey.’

Muzaffer Halbulayf, who arrived in Tatvan from Ankara by train and was warmly welcomed, said, ‘I am from Uzbekistan. I am doing my PhD at Ankara University, our university provided us with this opportunity, we have been on the road for two days, we visited historical touristic places on the way, and despite it being 11 o’clock, we were warmly welcomed.’

‘Melike Sönmez also stated, ‘We came from Ankara to Bitlis by the touristic train and traveled with very tolerant people. We were welcomed here with drums and pipes. I recommend this journey to everyone.’

Servet Doğan, emphasizing the great importance of these train services for the region in a journey accompanied by influencers, said, ‘A magnificent organization has been done today regarding the promotion of Bitlis, and we are here today for this. It is a very important program for people to see and learn about this place, I thank those who contributed.’

Beyzanur Çiftçi said, ‘We came here with the touristic Tatvan train, we are very excited, our journey was very enjoyable. Tomorrow, we will visit the touristic places of Bitlis.’

After the program, the guests proceeded to the hotels where they will be staying.