Manavgat

Manavgat is a town and district of Antalya Province in southwestern Turkey, situated along the Mediterranean coast. The district seat is the town of Manavgat, and the coastal town of Side lies within the district as a popular tourist destination. The area combines coastal plains with the foothills of the Taurus Mountains.

The Manavgat River originates in the Taurus and flows toward the Mediterranean, creating fertile valleys that support agricultural production, including citrus and vegetables. The climate is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The region’s economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and service activities linked to coastal resorts.

Notable features include the Manavgat Waterfall (Manavgat Şelalesi) near the town, which is a local natural attraction. The district is also home to the historic ruins of Side, an ancient port city with temples and theatres that attract visitors. Köprülü Canyon National Park lies along the Manavgat River, offering opportunities for rafting and scenic canyon landscapes.

Historically, the area has been inhabited since ancient times and has seen rule by Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman powers, which is reflected in archaeological remains around Side and along the river. The district is connected by road to Antalya and other coastal towns, supporting year‑round tourism and trade.

As of the latest available data, the district’s population is in the hundreds of thousands, making Manavgat one of the more populous districts in Antalya Province.