The Ihlara Valley is only one hour drive from the major towns of Cappadocia. This gorge lies along the Melendiz River. Spectacular views of the gorge can be seen before descent.
The gorge is about 16 kilometers long.It is possible to walk a small part of it without getting your feet wet.
There are many churches carved in the rocks along the gorge and beautiful frescoes can be seen in the churches. At the end of the valley stands the village of Ihlara.
Shade from the trees adds to the splendor of the valley, especially in the summer heat.
The valley is 16 km long.
Most visitors walk only a section — typically 4 to 8 km.
The most popular route is from Ihlara village to Belisırma village (about 4 km).
This section takes 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace.
The path follows the river and passes several churches.
Wear sturdy shoes. The path can be uneven and slippery after rain.
In summer, start early (before 9 AM) to avoid the midday heat.
In spring, the river is fuller and the valley is green.
In autumn, the foliage is beautiful.
In winter, the path may be muddy or closed.
Located near the Ihlara entrance. Features frescoes of Daniel in the lion's den. Easy access.
Named for the snake frescoes. Depicts scenes of hell and salvation. Well-preserved.
Named for the hyacinth flower frescoes. Located on the left side of the valley.
One of the larger churches. Features frescoes of the Virgin Mary and Jesus.
Located on the right bank. Features geometric patterns and figures. Slightly more difficult to access.
Located near Belisırma. Named for the stone columns inside.
Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee to the Ihlara Valley (approximately 100-150 TL). The ticket includes access to the valley path and churches. The ticket booth is at the Ihlara village entrance.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (summer) and 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (winter).
Best Time to Visit: April-June and September-October offer the best weather. July-August are very hot. November-March can be cold and wet.
What to Bring: Water (at least 1 liter per person), sunscreen, hat, comfortable hiking shoes, and cash for the entrance fee.
Food: There are small restaurants and tea gardens in Belisırma village (midway). They serve fresh trout, gözleme (Turkish pancake), and tea. No food options at the Ihlara entrance.
Toilets: Available at both the Ihlara entrance and Belisırma village. Basic but usable.
Ihlara Valley is located 40 km southeast of Aksaray.
It is about 1 hour drive from Göreme (70 km).
It is about 1 hour drive from Ürgüp (75 km).
The best way to visit is by car or with a guided tour.
Public buses are infrequent and not recommended.
Most Cappadocia tours include Ihlara Valley as a half-day or full-day trip.
See our How to Get There page for more transportation details.
There are limited hotels in Ihlara village itself.
Most visitors stay in Göreme, Ürgüp, Uçhisar, or Nevşehir.
For lodging in the region, please see Ankara Hotels, Cappadocia Hotels, or Konya Hotels.
You may also select and reserve hotels with special rates using our hotels page.
Please see our tour page for all tours in this region and around Turkey.