Kars in Winter: Horse-Drawn Sleighs on Frozen Lake Çıldır and Snowy Ani

In winter, Kars offers two unforgettable things to do besides skiing: riding a horse-drawn sleigh across frozen Lake Çıldır and walking in the silence of the snow-covered Ani Archaeological Site. For those skiing in Sarıkamış, these experiences are possible as optional day trips; the stone buildings of Kars city centre can also be added to the day. The activity on Lake Çıldır depends entirely on the state of the ice and the weather.

A good reason to take a day off skiing

The Kars Sarıkamış Ski Tour is a 3 nights, 4 days programme, and on day three it offers participants three options: free skiing at Cıbıltepe, an optional Kars trip (Ani Archaeological Site and Kars city centre) or, if the weather allows, a horse-drawn sleigh ride on Lake Çıldır. If there are non-skiers in your group, or your legs want a rest after two days of skiing, this day may become the most talked-about memory of the holiday.

Lake Çıldır: a winter on the ice

Why does the lake freeze?

Lake Çıldır is a large lake on a high plateau between Kars and Ardahan. In the region's harsh winter, the surface of the lake is covered by a thick layer of ice and turns into a vast, pure white plain. It is a sight you won't easily find anywhere else in Türkiye.

Horse-drawn sleighs

Rides on horse-drawn sleighs across the frozen lake have become the symbol of Çıldır. This method, used by local people for getting around in winter, now offers visitors an unforgettable experience too. The sound of the sleigh gliding over the ice, the jingling bells and the endless whiteness are far more impressive than any photo.

Ice fishing

In winter you may also see local fishermen catching fish through holes in the ice. This traditional method is part of winter life at Çıldır, and you may be able to find fresh fish at the lakeside restaurants.

Safety and conditions

The activity at Çıldır depends entirely on the thickness of the ice and the weather. If the ice is not thick enough or the weather is unsuitable, there are no sleigh rides; on our tour, too, this option is offered if the weather allows. On the ice, move only in the areas shown by local guides and sleigh drivers.

Ani Archaeological Site: a snow-covered medieval city

The story of Ani

Ani is the ruins of a medieval city on the banks of the Arpaçay, right next to today's Armenian border. Ruled by different states in different periods, the city grew into a major centre where trade routes met. Because of its many churches, it is also known as the “city of 1001 churches”. Ani Archaeological Site is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

What can you see?

Spread over a wide area, the site includes the remains of city walls, a cathedral, churches and buildings such as the Ebul Menuçehr Mosque, considered one of the earliest Turkish mosques in Anatolia. In winter, these stone buildings rising from the snow-covered plain create a dramatic scene you won't see in summer.

Visiting Ani in winter

• The site is wide and open; the wind can blow hard. Your ski jacket and neck warmer will come in handy here too.
• Walking on snow-covered ground can be tiring; wear waterproof, non-slip boots.
• Visiting conditions can vary with the season; we recommend checking before you go.

Kars city centre

Kars is a city bearing the traces of different eras. Kars Castle on the hill, the Kümbet Mosque converted from a former church and the historic stone bridge over the Kars River are the city's best-known sights. In the city centre, stone buildings from the late 19th century, built under Russian rule and known as “Baltic architecture”, give Kars a distinctive look. During the visit you can also stop at local cheese and honey shops; we cover these in our Kars flavours article.

Photography and preparation tips

• At Çıldır: Horse-drawn sleighs on the white plain are great subjects for contrast. Increase the exposure slightly to stop the snow looking grey.
• At Ani: Shots where the stone buildings meet the snow form a striking trio with the sky on clear days.
• Batteries and temperature: Batteries drain quickly in the cold; keep your phone in an inside pocket.
• Clothing: Thermal base layer, thick socks, gloves and a hat. At Ani and Çıldır you spend a long time outdoors.

Which option should you choose?

If you are interested in history and architecture, Ani and Kars city centre may be the better choice; if you are looking for nature and a different winter experience, Lake Çıldır. We work out together which option is planned on which day and how, depending on the weather. For the skiing side of Sarıkamış, see our Sarıkamış ski guide, and for all winter routes, our ski holidays page.

Frequently asked questions

When does Lake Çıldır freeze?

The lake usually freezes in the coldest part of winter, especially in January and February. However, the thickness of the ice varies each year with the weather; sleigh rides take place only if conditions allow.

Is the horse-drawn sleigh ride on Lake Çıldır included in the tour?

On day three of our tour there is an option of a horse-drawn sleigh ride on Lake Çıldır if the weather allows. We finalise the details of participation together at the quote stage.

Can you visit Ani in winter?

Yes. Snow-covered Ani offers a very different and impressive sight compared with summer. As the site is wide and exposed to the wind, you need to dress warmly.

What can you see in Kars in a day?

The optional Kars trip on our tour visits Ani Archaeological Site and Kars city centre. In the city you can see Kars Castle, the Kümbet Mosque and the stone buildings known for their Baltic architecture.