Whilst I was in Istanbul for several days, I decided to have a whole day trip to Bursa. The city that is synonymous with Mt. Uludag is said to be the first capital of the Ottoman Empire.

I booked immediately a tour for the following day from the Ritz Carlton Hotel Istanbul where I am staying. Lucky enough that the tour is available that will start early morning with other travelers via a minivan.  We drove into a ferry to get across from Istanbul to Bursa.

The ferry ride alone is indeed an experience where you can throw bread to feed the birds flying above the ferry.

After disembarking the minivan from the ferry, we proceed with the journey to Bursa and Mt. Uludag. Quite a lovely scenery along the way. We first stopped to the famous Ulu Cami Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque of Bursa.

I was lucky to witness a Friday prayer in this mosque that is said to be there standing magnificently for more  that  600 years. Always remember that be respectful and follow dress code when visiting any mosque. As is always the case when visiting such attractions, do as the locals do, regardless of your own religious beliefs.

With its two towering minarets and 20 domes, the building is one of the most impressive and awe-inspiring structure I’ve ever seen. The solemn atmosphere inside where everyone is waiting for the Friday prayer said it all.

Just outside the mosque you’ll find the place where they do their ritual ablution, very common for Muslims before participating in any prayers.

After observing the Friday prayer, we proceed with our journey to Mt. Uludag.

I love winter parks and resorts, not that I know how to ski haha! The serenity of the mountain covered with snow is just mesmerizing.

Uludag which means “Great Mountain” in Turkish, is a mountain in Bursa province with an elevation of 2,543 meters. Riding the gondola lift known as Bursa Teleferik that is almost 8 km long is said to be the longest cable car in the world.

The ride starts at Teferruc (236 m) going way up via Kadiyayla (1,231 m) continuing to Sarialan (1,635 m) where we get down and have a quick lunch. Then we continue to the terminus station, Oteller (1,810 m) where Uludag’s hotels and snow resort are located.

Simply riding the lift is another pinch-me moment as we dangle high above gazing at the mountain. Simply stunning! A picture perfect of what you totally imagine when you’re ascending to a spectacular view.

A breathtaking view awaits you at the top of the mountain. People are enjoying different snow activities from skiing, snow boarding, motor biking or just simply play around with snow haha!

Bursa just like Istanbul, is rich in history and have amazing places to visit. A place where comfort is intertwined with spirituality. Though my visit is just a day, Bursa and Mt. Uludag is a must see when you’re in Turkey. The scenery of the place is more beautiful and varied. People are very welcoming, great food and lovely landscape.