1. Ihlara Valley, also known as Ihlara Vadisi in Turkish, is a stunning natural wonder located in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. It is a 14-kilometer-long canyon carved out by the Melendiz River thousands of years ago. The valley is famous for its dramatic beauty, with towering cliffs reaching up to 100 meters high and lush greenery lining the riverbanks.
One of the most interesting facts about Ihlara Valley is that it is home to around 80 rock-cut churches and chapels dating back to the Byzantine period. Many of these churches feature well-preserved frescoes depicting biblical scenes and saints, making Ihlara Valley an important site for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Visitors to Ihlara Valley can enjoy a leisurely hike along the river, crossing over wooden bridges and passing by picturesque vineyards and orchards. The valley provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist areas of Cappadocia, allowing visitors to relax and connect with nature.
2. The working hours of Ihlara Valley can vary depending on the season, but it is generally open to visitors during daylight hours. It is recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Unfortunately, there is no phone number available for Ihlara Valley as it is a natural site without a specific visitor center.
3. There is no entrance fee to enter Ihlara Valley itself, but there may be small fees to visit some of the rock-cut churches along the hike. The valley is easily accessible by car or organized tour from nearby towns like Goreme or Aksaray. Visitors can also take public transportation to the entrance of the valley and then walk to the starting point of the hiking trail.
