Buzluk Cave, near Elazığ's Harput district, is a rare cave that freezes in summer; it is currently closed for safety but can be visited for views of Keban Dam Lake.
Buzluk Cave is located northeast of Harput, on the slope of Buzluk Hill. It gets its name from a peculiar natural phenomenon: ice forms inside the cave during summer, but not in winter. Due to reverse underground air currents, the cave remains warm in winter and cold in summer. Its depth is estimated to be 150-200 meters. There are very few caves of this type in the world.
In the past, villagers would extract ice from here between June and August, transport it on animal back to Harput, and sell it. At the entrance, there is an iwan section, followed by steps leading down to the first part where ice forms. In 1990, stairs and lighting were added while preserving the natural structure. However, the current situation is different: the cave entrance has been closed with an iron gate due to the risk of collapse. Some visitors state that they couldn't even see the gate, and the entrance was covered with large rocks. The Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism has also announced that the cave is closed to visitors until its landscaping is completed.
Despite this, most visitors come here for the view. Looking north from the Buzluk rocks, the blue of Keban Dam Lake and the green of the Pertek area stand out. A frequently mentioned point in comments is that even if it's not possible to enter the cave, the climb to the top and the view itself are reasons enough to visit. Some visitors report that the gate opens on weekends, while some who go on weekdays are turned away. This information has not been officially confirmed.
Related discoveries: Natural Beauties, Elazığ natural beauties, Lake Hazar.
Guide's Note
Why Does the Cave Freeze in Summer?
The most known feature of Buzluk Cave is that its underground air currents work in reverse. In winter, the cave remains warm, and no ice forms. When summer arrives, the cave cools down and starts to freeze. This is why villagers used to extract ice from here between June and August, transport it on animal back to Harput, and sell it. Its depth is estimated to be 150-200 meters, and the number of such caves in the world is quite limited.
Is the Entrance Currently Closed?
According to the Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, the cave is closed to visitors until its landscaping is completed. Most recent visitors report encountering an iron gate or rocks blocking the entrance, and gendarmerie teams prohibiting entry due to collapse risk. Some visitors claim the gate opens on weekends, but this seems inconsistent. It is healthiest to call the Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism before you go.
How to Get There?
From Elazığ city center, reach Harput and then continue towards Buzluk Hill. There is a hiking trail going north from Harput district square. The total round-trip distance is approximately 12 km, with an estimated duration of about 6 hours. Public transport options are limited, so driving your own car to Harput and completing the last part on foot is the most practical way. You can also approach a point close to the hill by car.
Best Time to Visit
If you want to see the ice formation, June-August is the most suitable time. In winter months, no ice forms, and road conditions can become more difficult. Even in summer heat, the inside of the cave is cold, so it is recommended to bring a jacket, even if entry is possible. One visitor also recommends a headlamp.
View and Photography
Even if the cave cannot be entered, looking north from the Buzluk rocks, the blue of Keban Dam Lake merges with the green of the Pertek area. Visitors state that even if they cannot access the inside of the cave, seeing this view makes the journey worthwhile. The light is clearer and fog is less before noon.
Combine with Harput
Buzluk Cave alone does not fill a whole day, so it makes sense to plan it together with Harput. Harput Castle, Ulu Mosque, and Harput Rock Tombs are in the same area. You can visit Harput in the morning and hike to Buzluk Hill in the afternoon. For those with mountaineering experience, the trail offers an extra climbing opportunity.
Budget and Practical Notes
The visit is free, there is no extra ticket or entrance fee. The main cost is transportation: if you don't have your own car, you may need to take a taxi or rent a private car from Elazığ city center. There are also complaints about litter and neglect due to incomplete landscaping. It's a good idea to bring water and a bag to take your waste back with you.
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