Hızlı Git
While I was in Ankara to apply for a visa, I wanted to visit Dikmen Valley and do some on-site research. I had a long conversation with a security guard I met inside the park. He told me there are 38 security officers in the park and that security services are provided by ANFA Security.
When I stepped into the landscape office inside the park, I was welcomed kindly by the landscape architects responsible for maintenance, and I learned a bit more about the site. It turns out the entire area used to be a squatter settlement; the stream running through it gradually turned into a swamp, and this place in the center of Ankara was considered something of an embarrassment for the city. Later, all the squatter houses were demolished and this beautiful park was built. The squatters formed an association and started resisting, and the demolitions were halted. Then, after permission was obtained again by ministerial decision, demolitions have continued—as you can see in the photos below…
In addition, a large amusement park is being built inside the park as well—one that I did not photograph. This new facility, which will open this summer, completes what the valley has been missing.
The Extraordinary Landscape of Dikmen Valley
When evaluating the park, the first thing to notice is that it has such a strong character even in winter. The main reason they have achieved this is the abundance of evergreen trees. A good designer should use evergreens generously to prevent a garden from becoming indifferent in winter—so it doesn’t “turn its back on us.”
This is Phase 1; it started in 1994 and was completed in 2000..
If you plan to visit Dikmen Valley—located among Ankara’s massive buildings—and walk the entire park, my recommendation is to prepare accordingly, assuming you will spend at least 4–5 hours there.
The red walkway systems installed in front of the blue-toned Cedrus atlantica (Atlas cedar) and the incredible sound created by water being splashed below have formed an ideal place for helping people relax.
Water surfaces and hundreds of fountain systems create a visual feast throughout the valley.
Wall edges are covered with small stone fragments, and climbers have been used above them. Once the climbers cover the wall, those areas are trimmed to achieve a neat and attractive look.
Using the same broadleaf species along the path creates a corridor-like effect and turns the space into a structure that works well even in winter..
Even though plants with different needs are used in the same environment, good maintenance allows them to form a highly harmonious living setting..
Even though it was winter, the park had been turned into a kind of color festival with plants—I can’t even imagine what it looks like in autumn..
Because of the park’s size, a small mosque has also been added within the park.
After Phase 2, the plants are younger, so the impact they create decreases.
However, the plants have been protected carefully, and every plant has been valued..
Under the bridge, a vertical garden system was created using thousands of pots, and climbers were planted inside. Once the climbers grow enough, it will look like a large fortress wall made of plants..
Family-oriented seating areas were designed within the park, and the furnishings were selected carefully..
In addition, small penalty areas and climbing walls for children have been installed throughout the valley.
As you get closer to the end, a darker tone takes over—whether because the sky is getting darker or because those areas need more attention, who knows.
The area where Phase 4 and Phase 5 have begun.
There is also a giant waterfall inside the park; since it was winter when I visited, I think it wasn’t flowing.
I entered Dikmen Valley at 11 a.m. and only managed to leave at 6 p.m. It’s unavoidable that I was very tired, but it’s also true that I will miss Dikmen Valley a lot until my next visit..
About Dikmen Valley
1. History
Dikmen Valley is located in Ankara’s Çankaya district. Historical remains in the valley indicate that it hosted many civilizations, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, and Byzantines. During the Ottoman period, bridges, fountains, and water channels were built in the valley. Today, Dikmen Valley is one of Ankara’s important natural areas.
2. Geographic Features
Dikmen Valley is a valley located in the Çankaya district, right in the middle of the capital city. The valley was formed by the flow of the Dikmen Stream. Covering an area of approximately 20 square kilometers, Dikmen Valley is one of the largest valleys in Ankara. The valley is composed of limestone and breccia rocks.
3. Flora and Fauna
Dikmen Valley’s vegetation is quite rich. In woodland areas, there are tree species such as oak, plane tree, black pine, and maple. In addition, species such as Scots pine, thyme, rosemary, heather, and similar plants can also be found in the valley. The valley’s fauna diversity should not be underestimated either. The valley hosts wolves, foxes, rabbits, squirrels, weasels, snakes, wild boars, deer, and various bird species.
Things to Do in Dikmen Valley
Dikmen Valley offers many activities thanks to its natural beauty and recreational areas. Here are some things you can do in Dikmen Valley:
A. Walking and Picnicking
Dikmen Valley National Park is an ideal place for walking and picnicking. While enjoying nature, you can have a picnic with your family or friends.
B. Cycling
Dikmen Valley is a very suitable place for cycling. You can rent a bicycle here and take a pleasant tour in nature.
Here are the posts the Mayor of Ankara Metropolitan Municipality shared on his social media account after coming across this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Dikmen Valley is a valley located in Ankara’s Çankaya district and is especially popular for outdoor activities such as nature walks, running, and cycling. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Dikmen Valley:
- Where is Dikmen Valley located?
Dikmen Valley is located in Ankara’s Çankaya district, on Konya Road.
- How do you get to Dikmen Valley?
You can reach Dikmen Valley by bus or private car. For those living in Ankara, public bus transportation is possible. If you go by private vehicle, it may be helpful to go early, as parking can be an issue.
- What can you do in Dikmen Valley?
You can do outdoor activities in Dikmen Valley such as nature walks, running, and cycling. It is also possible to have a picnic, light a barbecue, and spend time in playgrounds for children.
- Is Dikmen Valley free to enter?
Entry to Dikmen Valley is free. However, some activities may require a fee.
- Where can you eat in Dikmen Valley?
There are cafés and restaurants in Dikmen Valley for food and drink. There are also barbecue areas for those who want to have a picnic.
- What animals can be seen in Dikmen Valley?
Animals such as rabbits, foxes, and wild boars can be seen in Dikmen Valley. What matters is not harming nature, since the valley is a natural habitat.
- What plants can be seen in Dikmen Valley?
You can see various tree species, flowers, and plants in Dikmen Valley. It is especially ideal for nature walks in spring.
