Ihlara Valley
Ihlara Valley is a 15 km long canyon up to 150 m deep in Aksaray Province, Turkey, carved by the Melendiz River through the volcanic tuff of the Cappadocia region.
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Ihlara and where to find it?
This is a volcanic canyon in Cappadocia, Aksaray province, about 100 km from Nevsehir. It stretches for almost 14 km, and from the edge to the bottom - about 150 meters.
What is there to do at all?
The Melendiz River flows below, and monks carved more than a hundred churches in the rocks since the 4th century. Now about 13-14 are open to visitors, and they have preserved Byzantine frescoes.
Getting ready for the descent?
Yes, there are about 400 steps down. It's easy to go down, but you'll have to sweat on the way back - your legs will remember it.
When is the best time to go?
The season is from May to September. In the summer, it is 28-30 degrees and there is almost no rain, so take plenty of water.
How to get there?
The most convenient is a taxi or a tour bus from Nevsehir, Goreme or Aksaray. It is difficult to get here without a car.
