Ihlara Valley

Overview of Ihlara Valley

Ihlara Valley, located in Turkey’s Aksaray province, is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and historical cave dwellings. Spanning 14 kilometers, the valley was carved by the Melendiz River through volcanic rock, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and historical importance.

Historical Significance

During the Byzantine era, Ihlara Valley served as a sanctuary for Christians escaping persecution. The valley features over 4,000 dwellings and 100 churches carved into the rock faces. The volcanic landscape, shaped by Mount Hasan, provided an ideal setting for creating hidden and underground communities.

Getting to Ihlara Valley

The most convenient way to reach Ihlara Valley is by renting a car from nearby cities like Goreme, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, public transportation is available by taking a bus to Aksaray and then transferring to a minibus heading towards Ihlara.

Top Attractions

• Cave Churches: Visit AÄŸaçaltı Church, Kokar Church, and Snake Church.
• Historic Villages: Explore Yaprakhisar, Belisırma, and Ihlara.
• Waterfalls and River: Enjoy the scenic views and small waterfalls along the Melendiz River.
• Hiking Trails: Choose from short walks to longer hikes up to 32 kilometers.

Visitor Information

Entrance fees for Ihlara Valley are generally around 150 Turkish Lira per person.

Travel Tips

• Accommodation: Stay in nearby cities like Goreme for convenient access.
• Transportation: Consider renting a car for flexibility or joining an organized tour.
• Hiking: Select trails based on your fitness level and available time.
• Food and Drink: Visit local cafes along the river for refreshments.
• Entrance Points: Use the middle entrance for the most convenient access to attractions.