Sarıhan Caravanserai
Step back in time at Saruhan Caravanserai, a 13th-century Seljuk marvel on the Silk Road, famed for its architecture and spiritual Dervish ceremonies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Experience the Dervish ceremony
Sarıhan Caravanserai
Best Time
Experience the Dervish ceremony
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Saruhan Caravanserai, a 13th-century Seljuk marvel on the Silk Road, famed for its architecture and spiritual Dervish ceremonies.
"An unforgettable experience blending history, spirituality, and mesmerizing performances."
🎟️ Book Dervish Show Tickets
Secure your spot for the mesmerizing Whirling Dervish ceremony by booking tickets in advance.
🌬️ Bring a Hand Fan
Summer visits can be hot as there's no air conditioning. Stay cool with a portable fan.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Whirling Dervish Ceremony
Main performance area
Witness the spiritual Sama, a mesmerizing Sufi whirling dance that connects tradition and spirituality.
Seljuk Architecture
Throughout the caravanserai
Explore the impressive 13th-century Seljuk architecture, featuring geometric decorations and a stunning crown gate.
Historical Silk Road Stop
Courtyard and interior rooms
Imagine life on the ancient Silk Road in this well-preserved stopover, offering a glimpse into historical trade routes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Whirling Dervishes
+1Beat the Heat and Stay Hydrated
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Dervish Show Tickets
Secure your spot for the mesmerizing Whirling Dervish ceremony by booking tickets in advance.
🌬️ Bring a Hand Fan
Summer visits can be hot as there's no air conditioning. Stay cool with a portable fan.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, to ensure a comfortable visit.
🍽️ Eat Before You Go
No food or drinks are typically available for purchase inside, so dine beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Dervish Show Tickets
Secure your spot for the mesmerizing Whirling Dervish ceremony by booking tickets in advance.
🌬️ Bring a Hand Fan
Summer visits can be hot as there's no air conditioning. Stay cool with a portable fan.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, to ensure a comfortable visit.
🍽️ Eat Before You Go
No food or drinks are typically available for purchase inside, so dine beforehand.
🚶 Explore the Rooms
Take time to wander through the cool interior rooms and admire the architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the mesmerizing Whirling Dervish ceremony and the stunning Seljuk architecture at Saruhan Caravanserai. The historical ambiance and spiritual depth of the Sama performance are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. However, some note the lack of air conditioning during summer and the absence of food and drink facilities on-site.
"Saruhan Caravanserai
Sarıhan (Saruhan) Caravanserai was built in 1249 by Seljuk Sultan II. İzzettin Keykavus on the Silk Road in the Avanos district of Nevşehir, Turkey. This structure, which is the last caravanserai of the Seljuks, reflects classical Seljuk architecture with its summer (courtyard) and winter (closed) sections on an area of 2000 m². The caravanserai, made of tuff stone, draws attention with its geometric decorations, domed mosque and muqarnas crown gate. This structure, which was used to meet accommodation, security and trade needs on trade routes, was restored in 1991 and opened to tourism. Today, it hosts cultural events such as whirling dervish shows."
Mazhar Abbas
"Such a special place to watch the Whirling Dirvishes!!! 😍
Though note there is no aircon/fans (so make sure you have a hand fan In summer)"
Rebecca “Rebecca K” Khunnithi
"Very interesting experience! Music was very cool and dancing was something I’ve never seen before. The building was also spectacular.
FYI No food or drinks here when we went so eat/drink before you visit, comfy seats and cool rooms at the end to photograph and explore.
Unique Turkish experience!"
Brendan Milton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saruhan Caravanserai is located in Avanos, near Goreme. You can take a local bus or taxi from Goreme to Avanos. The caravanserai is a short distance from the town center. Many tours also include a stop here.
Yes, local buses run between Goreme and Avanos, and the caravanserai is a short walk or taxi ride from Avanos town.
While the caravanserai itself is a historical site, some nearby hotels offer rooftop views for sunset and hot air balloons. Saruhan Caravanserai is best visited for its cultural events.
Limited parking is usually available near the caravanserai, but it can get busy during event times.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Avanos town center to the caravanserai, taking about 15-20 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the caravanserai itself is usually free, but there is a fee for the Whirling Dervish ceremony. Prices can vary, so check locally or with your tour operator.
It is highly recommended to book tickets for the Whirling Dervish ceremony in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to guarantee your spot. +1
The caravanserai is generally open during daylight hours for exploration. The Whirling Dervish shows typically take place in the evening.
Discounts may be available for children or groups, but this is not always advertised. It's best to inquire directly or check with your tour provider.
Yes, you can visit the caravanserai during its open hours to explore the architecture and historical significance without attending the evening performance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The evening performances are the main draw for the Whirling Dervish ceremony. Arrive a bit early to get settled. +1
No, Saruhan Caravanserai does not have air conditioning or fans, so it can get quite warm inside during summer.
Dress respectfully. Comfortable clothing is recommended, and it's advisable to wear layers as the temperature can fluctuate.
Photography and videography rules can vary. It's best to check on-site for specific guidelines, but often, flash photography is prohibited.
Restroom facilities are typically available for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Generally, no food or drinks are sold at Saruhan Caravanserai. It's recommended to eat and drink before your visit.
Yes, the town of Avanos, where the caravanserai is located, has numerous restaurants offering local Turkish cuisine.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally considered polite to consume outside food and drinks before entering, especially if attending a performance.
Avanos is known for its pottery and pottery kebab, a slow-cooked meat dish prepared in a clay pot. You can also find many other traditional Turkish dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyard with its architectural details, the crown gate, and the interior rooms offer great photographic opportunities. The performance space is also visually striking.
Photography during the ceremony may be restricted. Check for on-site signage or ask staff. Flash photography is usually not permitted.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the architectural details. Evening light is also lovely, especially before the performance.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and cultural performance venues. It's best to check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions.
The intricate geometric decorations on the Seljuk architecture and the impressive muqarnas crown gate are particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include bringing plenty of water and snacks, as food isn't available on-site. Consider a hand fan for warmer days. The open courtyard and rooms offer space to explore, but keep a close eye on children, especially near any historical structures. Visiting during daylight hours might be more suitable for younger children before the evening performances.
🏛️ History Buffs
Exploring the courtyards and interior spaces allows for a deep appreciation of the caravanserai's original function as a vital stopover for merchants. The restoration efforts have maintained its historical integrity, providing an authentic glimpse into the past. Understanding its role in facilitating trade and cultural exchange makes a visit particularly rewarding.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
The historical setting itself contributes to a sense of peace and contemplation. Visitors often report feeling a deep connection to tradition and spirituality during their visit. The accompanying explanations of the ceremony's significance further enrich the spiritual journey for attendees.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of the Sama Ceremony
During the ceremony, dervishes wear distinctive attire: a black cloak representing the earthly world, a white conical hat symbolizing the tombstone of the ego, and a white skirt that flares out as they spin, representing the shroud of the ego. The rhythmic music, chanting, and the dervish's controlled spinning create a powerful and moving spectacle that aims to purify the soul and bring the performer closer to spiritual truth.
Visitors often describe the experience as mesmerizing and profound, offering a unique insight into Turkish spiritual traditions. The serene atmosphere within the historic caravanserai enhances the spiritual impact of the performance, making it an unforgettable cultural immersion.
Saruhan Caravanserai: A Jewel of Seljuk Architecture
The caravanserai features both a summer section (courtyard) and a winter section (closed hall), demonstrating thoughtful design for year-round use. Key architectural elements include intricate geometric decorations, a domed mosque within its walls, and a magnificent muqarnas crown gate. These features highlight the artistic and engineering prowess of the Seljuk era.
Restored in 1991, Saruhan Caravanserai has been preserved to offer visitors a tangible connection to the past. Its historical significance as the last caravanserai of the Seljuks makes it a crucial site for understanding the region's trade history and architectural heritage.
Navigating Cappadocia's Trade Routes
The location in Avanos, Nevşehir, placed it at a crucial junction for trade routes that facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures. Travelers would have found a secure haven within its sturdy walls, allowing them to rest and prepare for the next leg of their arduous journey. The caravanserai's design, with its courtyards and enclosed spaces, was optimized for the protection of both people and valuable cargo.
Today, exploring Saruhan Caravanserai allows visitors to step back in time and imagine the bustling activity of these ancient trade routes. It serves as a powerful reminder of Cappadocia's historical role as a crossroads of civilization and commerce.
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