Çamlıhemşin (District)

Çamlıhemşin is a district of Rize province in Türkiye’s Black Sea Region. It is located in the depths of the Fırtına Valley, at the foot of the Kaçkar Mountains. Known for its natural beauty, historical structures and cultural richness, the district is an important center particularly for highland tourism.

^{Çamlıhemşin (Source:} Rize Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism⁾

The history of Çamlıhemşin extends back to antiquity. The region was successively ruled by Colchis, Lazica, Rome, Byzantium and the Empire of Trebizond. The settlement gained the status of a subdistrict in 1953 under the name Çamlıca and became a district in 1957 under its current name, Çamlıhemşin.

Çamlıhemşin is situated southeast of the city center of Rize at an elevation of approximately 300 meters above sea level. The district covers an area of 880 km². The region has a typical Black Sea climate with abundant rainfall throughout the year and high humidity. This climate provides favorable conditions for tea cultivation and forest products.

According to 2021 data, the population of Çamlıhemşin is 6,280. The district is home to various ethnic groups, primarily the Hemshinli and Laz communities. The majority of the population resides in rural areas where traditional ways of life continue to have a strong influence.

Çamlıhemşin’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, animal husbandry and tourism. Tea cultivation is the most important economic activity in the district and supports other sectors as well. Additionally, industries based on beekeeping and forest products also hold significant importance in the district.

Çamlıhemşin has great potential for tourism due to its natural beauty and cultural richness. It is home to numerous tourist sites including Ayder Yaylası, Zilkale, Kale-i Bala, the Fırtına Stream and historic stone arch bridges. The district offers favorable conditions for a variety of alternative tourism activities such as hiking, rafting, camping, photo safaris, heliskiing and mountaineering.

Çamlıhemşin cuisine features the typical flavors of the Black Sea region, with local dishes such as muhlama, hamsili pilaf, karalahana sarma and minci standing out. In addition, festivals and cultural events held in the district reflect the region’s cultural richness.