The Inkaya Historical Plane Tree is a giant plane tree over 600 years old, located on the 3rd kilometer of the Uluda臒 road in Osmangazi district of Bursa; its height reaches 35 meters, its trunk circumference is 9.2 meters, and it welcomes visitors with tea gardens in its shade.
The Inkaya Plane Tree appears on the roadside at the third kilometer when ascending from Bursa to Uluda臒. It stands in the Inkaya neighborhood, part of Osmangazi, at an altitude of 610 meters above sea level. With a history spanning over 600 years, it is believed to have witnessed the establishment period of the Ottoman Empire. Some sources state its age as 615-620 years.
The dimensions are truly impressive: the trunk circumference is 9.2 meters, its diameter is 3 meters, and its height is measured between 35-37 meters. It has 13 main branches, each as thick as a normal tree trunk, and these branches together form a canopy covering approximately 250 square meters. It has been registered as a monumental tree by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and Natural Parks. To prevent its heavy branches from breaking, they are supported by steel cables.
The area beneath the tree has been transformed into a tea garden. Most visitors come here to drink tea, and some eat 'gözleme' (Turkish flatbread). Some comments complain about the area being filled with tables, making it difficult to approach the tree. However, some visitors see this as a natural part of the experience and enjoy sitting in the shade. It gets particularly crowded on weekends.
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Guide's Note
When to Visit
In spring and summer, the plane tree's leaves provide full shade, making this period more enjoyable for a visit. In winter, the tree loses its leaves, but the size of its trunk and branches is still impressive. On weekends, especially in the afternoon, the number of visitors significantly increases. Comments complaining about the crowds mostly coincide with these hours. Weekday mornings are recommended for a peaceful visit.
How to Get There
The Inkaya Plane Tree is located on the road ascending from Bursa to Uluda, 4 km from Çekirge. According to Culture Portal data, it is at the third kilometer along the road. It takes approximately 10 minutes by private car from Çekirge, as the road is the same main avenue leading to Uluda. Those going to Uluda for skiing or nature trips can easily stop by on their way back.
Duration of Visit
15-20 minutes is sufficient to see the tree and take photos. For those who wish to sit and relax in the tea garden, the duration can extend to 40 minutes-1 hour. When combined with an Uluda臒 trip, it can be considered a small stop on a full-day itinerary.
How to Add to Your Itinerary
The Inkaya Plane Tree works well as a starting or ending point for an Uluda trip. It's logical to stop by when leaving thermal hotels in Çekirge on the way to Uluda, or on the return journey after descending by cable car. Among the routes suggested by visitbursa.org are nature and culture-themed tours that include this tree. It can be added as a small stop to a one-day out-of-city program in Bursa.
What to Eat Under the Tree
Gözleme and tea are served in the tea garden under the plane tree. One visitor's comment stated that tea was 25 TL, a teapot was between 180-420 TL, and gözleme was around 150 TL. As these prices may vary, please confirm current information before visiting. Breakfast options are also offered.
Things to Consider
The area around the tree is largely covered with tables. Some visitors state that this turns the natural area into a commercial space, making photography difficult. Morning hours are more suitable for those who want to take photos without people. Weekend crowds should also be taken into account.
Photography Tip
To fit the tree's trunk and 13 main branches into a single frame, it is necessary to shoot from a little further back, from the opposite side. During less crowded hours, the true size of the branches becomes clearer. For lighting, coming before noon can be preferred to capture the light filtering through the branches.
FAQ
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