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
This might just be your highlight from Dohuk. Walk out of town and you will see a massive dam which has been built against completely immaculate and scenic countryside. The walk takes you up a hill past a proud Kurdistan flag and then there it is - the Dohuk Dam.
The valley spreads far and wide and the views are worth it.
3. Waterfalls at Dohuk
Dohuk has a few false waterfalls which have been added to the walk away from the city round to Dohuk dam. These are nice to look at and add to the effects of the city but ultimately they are fake!
4. Dohuk Bazaar
It seems that every city or town of any decent size in Iran, Iraq and Turkey has a bazaar. Dohuk's is colourful and has all the usual stuff - fruit and veg stalls, drinks, clothes, nik baks, electronics etc.
5. Dohuk Art Gallery
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
This might just be your highlight from Dohuk. Walk out of town and you will see a massive dam which has been built against completely immaculate and scenic countryside. The walk takes you up a hill past a proud Kurdistan flag and then there it is - the Dohuk Dam.
The valley spreads far and wide and the views are worth it.
3. Waterfalls at Dohuk
Dohuk has a few false waterfalls which have been added to the walk away from the city round to Dohuk dam. These are nice to look at and add to the effects of the city but ultimately they are fake!
4. Dohuk Bazaar
It seems that every city or town of any decent size in Iran, Iraq and Turkey has a bazaar. Dohuk's is colourful and has all the usual stuff - fruit and veg stalls, drinks, clothes, nik baks, electronics etc.
5. Dohuk Art Gallery
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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To read a load more cool stories from wandering in Iraq head over to Jonny Blair's quality travel site which has tips and also features documents like travelling in Dohuk
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