Aksaray / Güzelyurt · Canyons and valleys

Ihlara Valley

A riverside walk through a canyon with rock-cut churches.

A closer look

Ihlara lies in Güzelyurt district, Aksaray, in a canyon shaped by the Melendiz. Rock-cut churches on its sides bring natural scenery and historic use together along the route.

 

 You do not need to walk the whole valley. Choose your start, finish, return transport and rest stops together. The duration in this guide is an editorial estimate for a shorter section, not an end-to-end walk.

Visiting conditions

These details reflect conditions on the date checked. Unlisted criteria have not yet been verified.

Setting

Outdoors

29.09.2026 · Source

Opening hours and admission

Opening hours

This schedule applies to the ticketed site; ticket sales end at 18:15. The official page identifies main entrance no. 2. Do not assume all valley access points share these hours.

Europe/Istanbul local time
Monday08:30-19:00
Tuesday08:30-19:00
Wednesday08:30-19:00
Thursday08:30-19:00
Friday08:30-19:00
Saturday08:30-19:00
Sunday08:30-19:00

Source for opening hours ↗ · Checked: 29.09.2026

Admission

Varies by conditions

The DOSİM list quotes 15 EUR for foreign visitors, checked on 29 September 2026. Separate Müzekart conditions apply to Turkish identity-card holders. Check concessions, exemptions and evening admission separately.

Source for admission fees ↗ · Checked: 29.09.2026

Prices may vary by visitor type, ticket coverage and season.

Getting there

In Güzelyurt district, Aksaray, not central Nevşehir. Decide which entrance and return point you will use.

Visiting tips

Steps and trail conditions depend on the entrance. Plan water, suitable footwear and a daylight margin.

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