Updated Date : 15.01.2022
Rivers and Lakes in Istanbul
Lakes and rivers in Istanbul have historical importance. Back in history, Constantinople (now Istanbul) was the center of battles and warfare. It was imperative to have reservoirs of water for fulfilling the drinking supply and many other chores. Not much has changed today other than the fact there are no battles and these rivers and lakes now also serve as great tourist attractions.
The lakes and rivers in Istanbul have become hot tourist spots because there is a long list of recreational activities the visitors can enjoy. These include camping, sunbathing, Forest trekking on the lake and riverside, and relaxing.
Lakes in Istanbul
Many poets and writers have penned the beauty of the lakes of Istanbul.
Terkos / Durusu Lake
Terkos lake, also known as the Durusu Lake, is located between the Arnavutkoy and Catalca districts of Istanbul. Terkos Lake is the largest lake in Istanbul and is fed by Kanli Creek, Belgrad Creek, Baskoy Creek, and Ciftlikkoy Creek. Terkos Lake is an ideal picnic spot for locals and tourists. It is surrounded by small forests making it adventurous for forest trekkers.
Durusu Lake stretches over an area of about 25 square kilometers. Lake Terkos is not directly connected to the black sea; therefore, the water is fresh. The main center of water distribution in the city has pipelines extended from the lake, and hence it supplies fresh water to the town. The lake has small country-style hotels and a small village around its vicinity. Tourists and locals can enjoy goose hunting and freshwater fishing (under particular protocols).
Buyukcekmece Lake
Buyukcekmece Lake is located close to the Sea of Marmara. It extends over an area of 12 squarer kilometers and flows in the populated district of Beylikduzu. It is a shallow water lake with even the deepest section of about 6 meters. Naturally, the lake is connected to the sea of Marmara but is separated artificially by a dam, and consequently, it acts as a water reservoir of the city. Buyukcekmece Lake was very popular for fishing, but it has been recently listed as endangered due to human settlements and industrial accomplishments in the nearby areas.
Kucukcekmece Lake
Fed by the Sazlidere, Hadimkoy and Nakkasdere streams is the Kucukcekmece Lake. Much like Buyukcekmece Lake is connected to the sea. However, the Kucukcekmece Lake has a small channel that connects it to the sea under the breakwater. It is located to the west of the center of the city on the shores of the Marmara Sea. The most profound areas of the lake are not more than 20 meters, and it is, therefore, has mostly shallow waters.
But like many other water bodies, the lake is subjected to non-regulated poisonous chemicals and industrial waste harmful to both human and marine life. Due to this reason, the animals in the lake are said to be polluted and are not considered ideally safe for fishing.
Dam Lakes
Isakoy lake, Omerli lake, Elmali lake, Alibey lake, Sazlidere lake, and Dalek lake are common dam lakes that serve as water reservoirs. Although not very populated, these dam lakes are a great place to relax and spend quality time in peace. The government authorities have banned any housing projects in the vicinity to keep the water as unpolluted as possible.
Rivers in Istanbul
Istanbul does not have very large rivers. All the rivers located inside the borders are either small or mid-sized. The largest among the 32 rivers found in Istanbul is the Riva Creek. Some of these are too small not to hold much significance other than being connections and arms of other larger rivers and streams. Some of these rivers act as potential water sources for the central city.
Asian Side of Istanbul
The largest of all the rivers of Istanbul is the Riva river. It is located on the Asian side, 40 kilometers from the center of the city. It starts from the Kocaeli province and enters the Black Sea after traversing along 65 kilometers from its origin. Yesilcay (Agva), Canak streams, Kurbagalidere stream, Goksu, and Kucuksu streams are also located on the Asian side of Istanbul. Yesilcay (Agva) and Canak streams end in the Black Sea. Kurbagalidere stream ends in the Sea of Marmara, whereas Goksu and Kucuksu streams enter the Bosphorus.
The European side of Istanbul
On the European side of the city, Istinye, Buyukdere streams, Kagithane stream, Alibey stream, Sazlidere stream, Karasu stream, and Istiranca stream. The Golden Horn is formed when Alibey Creek merges with Kagithane Creek.
The Final Word
Smaller or larger, the water bodies, be it lakes or rivers of Istanbul, are wondrous creations of nature. They are beautiful and enthralling. Many rivers and lakes offer several enjoyment opportunities and are therefore ideal for trips and picnics. All the water sports are great for relaxing on weekends and killing time. Hence a trip to one or two of these rivers is worth paying some bucks for.
So don't hesitate to pack your bags and travel to Istanbul!