Manavgat (District)

Manavgat is a large coastal district in southern Türkiye, located east of Antalya province and covering place area. Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, Manavgat is approximately 75 km from the Antalya city center. The district is surrounded by Alanya to the east, Serik to the west, and Akseki and Gündoğmuş districts to the north. Manavgat attracts attention for both its natural beauty and historical fabric. The district center developed around the Manavgat River and is one of the region’s important centers in terms of agriculture and tourism.

Manavgat Waterfall (Manavgat Municipality)

History

Manavgat’s history extends back to the ancient Pamphylia period. The ancient city of Side, located at close, was founded in the 7th century BCE and served as a significant settlement during the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuk periods. During the Ottoman era, Manavgat was administratively part of the Teke Sanjak and developed a distinct district identity from the early years of the Republic. Mentioned as a nahiye at the end of the 19th century, Manavgat attained district status in 1914. Today is a settlement characterized by the interweaving of cultural and natural tourism, with its ancient cities Sidesuch as and river, waterfall and forest areas.

Geography and Climate

Manavgat district lies east of Antalya on the Mediterranean coast. With an area of approximately 2,300 km², Manavgat is among the largest districts of Antalya. Its territory extends northward to the Taurus Mountains and is bounded to the south by the Mediterranean coast strip. The Manavgat River is the district’s most important natural feature, dividing the urban center and providing significant importance for agricultural irrigation and tourism. The Manavgat Waterfall located on the river is one of the district’s natural symbols. The climate is typical Mediterranean: summers are hot and dry, winters are mild and rainy. The annual average temperature ranges from 18 to 20°C, with precipitation of about 1,000 mm.

Population and Demographics

According to TÜİK’s 2024 Address-Based Population Registration System data, the population of Manavgat district is 262,576. The district experiences seasonal population due to tourism, with temporary population increases observed during write months. Migration to the district has occurred from various provinces of Türkiye, particularly from Black Sea Region migration. In recent years, the number of foreign nationals settling in the district has also increased. This diversity is reflected in the district’s social structure.

Economy

The Manavgat economy is based primarily on tourism, agriculture and trade sectors. The district hosts numerous hotel, holiday villages and accommodation facilities, which are concentrated especially in the Side, Titreyengöl and Evrenseki areas. In agriculture, citrus, wheat, cotton, tomato, pepper and banana production are prominent. Nature tourism is also developing through boat tours and activities such as rafting on the Manavgat River. Fishing is supported by traditional small enterprises along the riverbanks. Small and medium-sized industry sites and commercial centers are located in the district, and the construction sector is also showing growth.

Tourism, Culture and Cuisine

Manavgat is one of Antalya’s most important tourism centers. The village of Side, under the jurisdiction of the district, features an open-air museum character with its historical ancient city ruins, the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Theater and the Agora. Side Ancient City is listed on UNESCO’s Temporary Heritage List. Titreyengöl and Sorgun forests are attractive destinations for camping and ecotourism due to their natural beauty. The Manavgat Waterfall is another tourist site used for picnics and leisure. Every year, the Manavgat Peace Water Culture, Tourism, Art and Youth Festival is held in the district.

Manavgat cuisine reflects influences from Mediterranean and Yörük culture. Tahinli piyaz, pumpkin dessert, keşkek, hibeş and citrus marmalade are among the standout local delicacies. Fish restaurants and eateries serving traditional house dishes are common in the region. Additionally, during summer months, jams, sauces and dried products made from field produce reflect the unique flavors of the area.