Ihlara ValleyPlaces to Visit in Nevsehir

In the 3rd and 4th centuries, the Ihlara Valley emerged as an important center for early Christian worship. Thanks to its natural seclusion and protection, early Christian communities found refuge here, gradually transforming the area into an ancient monastic complex. Numerous churches were constructed over the years, many of which were beautifully decorated with murals and religious frescoes, making the valley a place of great interest to both historians and archaeologists.

The churches carved into the cliffs along the Melendiz Stream are designed with one or two naves, often following a Greek cross layout, and are believed to be associated with prominent religious figures. Their locations on either side of the stream provide visitors with a truly scenic and captivating landscape.

The Ihlara Valley has long appealed to hermits and clergy seeking solitude in its tranquil and secluded setting. As Christianity spread across diverse linguistic groups, frescoes illustrating key moments in the life of Jesus Christ were painted on church walls to convey religious teachings to the illiterate population.

The valley is home to several remarkable painted churches, including Sümbüllü (Hyacinth), Yılanlı (Serpent), Kokar (Fragrant), Ağaçaltı (Beneath-a-Tree), Pürenliseki (Platform), Eğritaş (Crooked Stone), Kırkdamaltı (St. George), and Bahattin Samanlığı (Bahattin’s Granary). These churches feature striking depictions of scenes from the life of Jesus, such as the Nativity, Annunciation to the Virgin Mary, the Visitation, the Flight into Egypt, and the Last Supper.

Roughly 100 kilometers from Göreme, the Ihlara Valley is a scenic destination that can be reached by car in about 1.5 hours. Visitors can explore the valley through four main entry points: the Ihlara town entrance, the main entrance, Belisırma Village, and Selime Village. Beginning from the Ihlara town side, travelers encounter notable churches like Pürenliseki, Kokar, and Ağaçaltı before arriving at the second main entrance, which draws a significant number of tourists. Turning left from either Sümbüllü Church or Kırkdamaltı Church leads to Belisırma Village, where a variety of restaurants await to serve visitors.

The distance from the first entrance of the valley to the second entrance spans about 4 kilometers. From there, it is an additional 3 kilometers to arrive at Belisırma Village. Continuing your journey another 7 kilometers on foot from Belisırma will take you to the historic Selime Monastery and Village, which can be visited free of charge upon showing your Ihlara Valley entry ticket.

A common issue many travelers face in Ihlara Valley is returning to their parked vehicle after reaching the final point. You can seek assistance from officials at Selime or opt to hire a private driver for €100. This service typically includes transportation to the valley's starting point, pick-up at the end of your hike, and a return trip to your hotel.

The admission fee for Ihlara Valley in 2025 is 15 Euros per person, which also grants access to the Selime Monastery. The GPS coordinates marking the beginning of the valley trail are 38°14'36.2″N 34°18'29.6″E.

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