THE TOROS (TAURUS) MOUNTAINS
THE TOROS (TAURUS) MOUNTAINS (3756 M.)
The Toros (Taurus) Mountains are the westernmost branch of the great mountain chain that stretches across all of Asia the Himalayan mountain belt. The Turkish section of this massive mountain range follows the southern border of Anatolia and is itself made up of four major sections, the Western, Central, Southern and Southeastern Toros (Taurus) ranges. The highest peaks rise out of the Central and Southeastern branches, a stretch of mountains which are rugged, magnificent and arduous to climb.
Trekking in the Ala Mountains
The Toros Ala Mountains
Forming part of the Central Toros (Taurus) range, the Aladaglar range runs from the southwest to the northeast for approximately 50 kilometers and boasts the region’s highest peak, Demirkazik which stretches to 3756 meters. Other high summits include Kizilkaya in the center (3725 m), a peak that reaches 3688 meters in the south, and Mount Vayvay in the east (3565 m). This long range, situated in the provinces of Nigde, Kayseri and Adana, rises between Lake Ecemis and the Zamanti River.
Kapuzbasi Waterfall, Ala Mountains National Park
The geology of the area is responsible for the interesting rock formations and waterfalls. The erosion of limestone has created a fascinating karstic topography and hydrography, especially in the Yedigoller valley, where karstic underground rivers and caverns collect the surface water. Both the Mediterranean and Anatolian weather systems influence the climate of the Aladaslar bringing warm summers and cool winters to the mountains.
Trips and climbs
The best season to climb the mountains is during May, June, July and August when the alpine meadows of the higher elevations are rich in vegetation.
Researchers and mountaineers ascending the Aladaglar usually begin their climb from either Camardi or Cukurbas villages. Those attempting to climb the Demirkazik summit depart from Demirkazik village. Both of these villages lie 65 km from Nigde and can be reached by asphalt road.
Demirkazik Summit, Ala Mountains
Regional attractions
The yaylas of the Toros (Taurus) Aladag are the summer homes of entire villages and the summer grazing of herds of animals. Be sure to see the rounding up of all the animals for milking. Traditionally women of these encampments have produced some of Turkey’s most beautiful carpets and kilims, and it is often possible to see a carpet still in progress.
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