A 24 km² dam lake on the Tigris near Eğil with rocky shores and boat trips; not a swimming beach and a drinking-water protection area.
Dicle Dam Lake (Dicle Baraj Gölü) lies in Eğil district, about 50 km north of Diyarbakır. It is a 24 km² reservoir, up to 20 km long, behind a 75 m earth-fill dam on the Tigris, and supplies most of Diyarbakır's drinking water. The shoreline is rocky and steep with quiet coves, and Eğil town sits on the water below an Assyrian-era castle rock. Boat trips run from the Eğil ferry pier, and divers have reported submerged ruins.
This is a scenic lake, not a swimming beach. Drownings have been reported, and the current in parts of the lake has caught swimmers. Because the lake feeds the city water supply, authorities have sent text messages warning that camping and picnicking are prohibited in the drinking-water protection basin, so visitors should check on site where sitting and picnicking are allowed. Facilities are minimal and prices for boats were not verified.
| Distance | About 50 km north of Diyarbakır by road |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Taxi or private car from Diyarbakır to Eğil |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Best season | April-June and September-October |
| Address | Eğil, Diyarbakır, Türkiye |
Amenities
- Boat trips from Eğil pier (price not verified)
- Views of Eğil Castle
Good to know
- Best for
- views, boat trips, photographers
Location
Eğil, Diyarbakır, Türkiye
38.2308, 40.1766 View on map
Highlights
- 24 km² reservoir with rocky coves
- Boat trips from the Eğil ferry pier
- Eğil Castle and prophets' tombs nearby
- Sunset views over the water
Tips for visiting
- Do not swim; drownings have been reported.
- Check on site where picnicking is permitted, as water-protection rules may apply.
- Confirm boat prices and schedules at the pier.
- Hire a taxi for the 50 km trip; services are infrequent.
- Carry water and shade for the shore.
When to visit
April-June and September-October.
Accessibility
Shore access is rough and rocky; boat boarding may involve steps.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Dicle Dam Lake from Diyarbakır?
About 50 km by road to Eğil.
Can visitors swim?
Swimming is not advised; deaths have been reported.
Is picnicking allowed?
Camping and picnicking are restricted in the drinking-water protection area, so rules should be checked locally.
Are boat trips available?
Yes, from the Eğil pier; prices were not verified.