Crying Rocks (Tunceli)

Ağlayan Kayalar is a natural formation located within the boundaries of Pülümür district in Tunceli province, in Türkiye’s Eastern Anatolia Region. It is situated along the Tunceli–Erzincan road, near the Hılbeş Bridge within the Pülümür Valley. Water drips continuously from the rock surfaces throughout the year, with a height of approximately 20 metres. Due to this characteristic, the formation is locally known as “Ağlayan Kayalar.” The site is approximately 35 kilometres from the city centre of Tunceli.

Ağlayan Kayalar (AA)

Formation and Physical Structure

Ağlayan Kayalar is a natural phenomenon characterized by year-round seepage of water from the rock surfaces. The water filtering through the rocky area flows in thin streams across the surface, a condition that persists for most of the year. During winter months, when air temperatures fall below zero, the water seeping from the rocks freezes and forms icicles, creating distinct seasonal variations in appearance.

Seasonal Appearance

Ağlayan Kayalar exhibits different visual forms depending on seasonal conditions throughout the year.

Spring–Summer

During spring and summer, water droplets seeping from the rock surfaces are observed more intensely. The melting of snow and rising groundwater levels during this period increase the volume of water emerging from the surface. The surrounding rocky area becomes covered in lush green vegetation during these months.

Ağlayan Kayalar (AA)

Winter

In winter, when temperatures drop below zero, the water seeping from the rocks freezes and forms icicles along the rock surfaces. These ice formations cover the rock faces and transform the surrounding natural landscape under winter conditions.

Ağlayan Kayalar (Culture Portal)

Tourism and Access

Ağlayan Kayalar is visited by travelers during different times of the year. During winter, the ice formations on the rock surfaces attract visitors. Tourists stop at this location along the Tunceli–Erzincan road to observe the scenery, photograph the rocky area, and study the surrounding environment.

Ağlayan Kayalar is located along the Tunceli–Erzincan road, near Pülümür district. Access to the site is by road, and it is approximately 60 kilometres from the provincial centre of Tunceli.

Ağlayan Kayalar (AA)