Dohuk is an odd kind of town. You've never been in one like it before and you'll never be in one like it again. In fact, the nearest comparison I can make to Dohuk is with a town called Vank in Nagorno Karabakh. Basically Dohuk wants to be cool. It really wants to be. But it has a lot of barriers to overcome. Slowly but surely this town is becoming a decent spot for travellers. Even though you won't linger long (we stayed 2 nights), it's definitely worth a trip if you're touring Northern Iraq.
Here are the best 5 things to see and do in Dohuk
1. The Promenade at The Corniche
Running long and windingly through the city, and right out to Dohuk Dam, this trendy and smart looking promenade makes a fresh and relaxing walk. Students hang around to study, old men chat, kids mess around and the big city carries on regardless up above. I ended up walking almost the whole way along it. That was probably too much - it needs a bit of work done to it, but it's pleasant enough.
2. Dohuk Valley and Dam
In and around Dohuk there is a quality dam to check out. It sits on the edge of town and has valleys around it which is amazing. You should head out there and check this epic place out for sure!
The valley spreads far and wide and the views are worth it.
3. The Dohuk Waterfall
First of all - these waterfalls are FAKE. They are not natural at all. We caught them out one morning while walking past they had turned one of them off!! However this doesn't stop the locals going and enjoying them and you'll want to get your photo taken anyway as you walk past.
4. Dohuk Bazaar
Every town or city in this region seems to have a market, known normally as a Bazaar. Dohuk of course also has one which is very big and has lots of nooks and crannies to it. Really worth a look around to do shopping in.
5. Art Gallery in Dohuk
We couldn't get inside the days we were there but this place has a load of Kurdish Art which for sure will be unique and interesting.
In conclusion Dohuk is a truly remarkable small town to visit when backpacking in Iraqi Kurdistan and you should get it on your list. Be sure to meet the locals and have a great time!
Here are the best 5 things to see and do in Dohuk
1. The Promenade at The Corniche
Running long and windingly through the city, and right out to Dohuk Dam, this trendy and smart looking promenade makes a fresh and relaxing walk. Students hang around to study, old men chat, kids mess around and the big city carries on regardless up above. I ended up walking almost the whole way along it. That was probably too much - it needs a bit of work done to it, but it's pleasant enough.
2. Dohuk Valley and Dam
In and around Dohuk there is a quality dam to check out. It sits on the edge of town and has valleys around it which is amazing. You should head out there and check this epic place out for sure!
The valley spreads far and wide and the views are worth it.
3. The Dohuk Waterfall
First of all - these waterfalls are FAKE. They are not natural at all. We caught them out one morning while walking past they had turned one of them off!! However this doesn't stop the locals going and enjoying them and you'll want to get your photo taken anyway as you walk past.
4. Dohuk Bazaar
Every town or city in this region seems to have a market, known normally as a Bazaar. Dohuk of course also has one which is very big and has lots of nooks and crannies to it. Really worth a look around to do shopping in.
5. Art Gallery in Dohuk
We couldn't get inside the days we were there but this place has a load of Kurdish Art which for sure will be unique and interesting.
In conclusion Dohuk is a truly remarkable small town to visit when backpacking in Iraqi Kurdistan and you should get it on your list. Be sure to meet the locals and have a great time!
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