Ihlara Valley is a deep, green canyon in the south-west of Cappadocia, often called the pearl of the region. It lies in the Güzelyurt district of Aksaray province, where the Melendiz stream has cut a gorge about 14 km long through volcanic rock. Hiking paths follow the water past poplars, wildflowers and rock-cut churches, combining nature and history in one walk.
History of Ihlara Valley
The canyon was formed by the Melendiz stream wearing through layers of tuff and basalt laid down by eruptions of nearby Mount Hasan. The steep walls were easy to carve and offered shelter, so people have lived here since ancient times.
In the Byzantine period the valley became an important centre of early Christianity. Monks and hermits carved dozens of churches, chapels and monastic cells into the cliffs, many decorated with frescoes. Some of the paintings show styles different from those around Göreme, and a few are in good condition despite centuries of weather and graffiti.
Hiking in Ihlara Valley
The valley floor is flat and the path is well trodden, so the walk is suitable for most reasonably fit visitors. The hard part is the long staircase of several hundred steps down into the canyon from the main entrance, and back up again if you return the same way. Popular options are:
- About 3.5 km: from the main entrance near Ihlara village to Belisırma village, the most common walk on day tours.
- About 7 km: the entrance to Belisırma and on towards Yaprakhisar, or Ihlara village to Belisırma along the full southern section.
- About 14 km: the whole canyon from Ihlara village to Selime, a full day's hike.
Because the trail is linear, arrange a taxi or driver to meet you at the end, or join a tour that drops you at one point and collects you at another.
Churches and sights along the way
Most of the painted churches are near the main staircase, so even a short walk lets you see several. Look out for:
- Ağaçaltı Kilise (Church under the Tree), with frescoes including a scene of Daniel in the lions' den
- Kokar Kilise, with well-preserved paintings of scenes from the life of Christ
- Yılanlı Kilise (Church with Snakes), known for its unusual Last Judgement scene
- Sümbüllü Kilise, with a carved facade in the cliff
- Selime Monastery at the northern end, a vast rock-cut complex with a church, kitchen and stables
Lunch in Belisırma
Halfway along, the village of Belisırma has simple riverside restaurants where you can sit on platforms over the Melendiz stream with grilled trout, gözleme and tea. It is the traditional rest stop on the walk.
How to get to Ihlara Valley from Göreme and Nevşehir
Ihlara is the farthest major site from central Cappadocia. By road it takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours from Göreme or Nevşehir, via Derinkuyu or Aksaray.
- On a day tour: the easiest choice. The "Green Tour" from Göreme usually combines Ihlara with Derinkuyu Underground City and Selime Monastery.
- By car: gives you freedom to walk the full canyon and visit Güzelyurt.
- By public transport: possible via Aksaray, but connections are limited and it is hard to do as a day trip.
See our Cappadocia trip ideas for how to fit a long day like this into your stay.
Best time to visit and tips
Spring is the greenest season, with wildflowers along the stream, and autumn brings golden poplars and mild weather. Summer is warm but the valley floor stays shaded and cooler than the plateau. In winter the steps can be icy.
- Wear walking shoes and bring water, a hat and a torch for the darker churches.
- Start early to avoid tour groups on the main staircase.
- Entrance fees and opening hours change, so check them on the official website before you visit.
Ihlara is one of the best reasons to visit Cappadocia beyond the fairy chimneys. For general advice on transport and seasons, read our Cappadocia travel tips.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Ihlara Valley hike?
The full canyon from Ihlara village to Selime is about 14 km. Most visitors walk the 3.5 km section from the main entrance to Belisırma village.
Is the Ihlara Valley walk difficult?
The valley floor is mostly flat and easy. The challenging part is the long staircase of several hundred steps into and out of the canyon at the main entrance.
How far is Ihlara Valley from Göreme?
It takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Most travellers visit on a full-day tour that also includes an underground city and Selime Monastery.
Where can I eat in Ihlara Valley?
Belisırma village, halfway along the valley, has riverside restaurants with seating over the Melendiz stream, popular for trout and gözleme.
Starting your trip in Istanbul?
Before you travel on, see Istanbul from the water: a private yacht cruise on the Bosphorus, only for your group.