Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
With almost 2500 years of history, Istanbul has witnessed the rise and fall of several dynasties. Though only some Turks belonged to the Sufi order, the country’s history has been influenced by Sufi mystics since ancient times.
Influenced by the 13th-century poet, Jalaluddin Rumi, these Sufi mystics spin in an act of moving meditation to become closer to God, and in turn, uncover their highest self. When the dervishes whirl, their right hands are turned upward to reach God, and their left hands are pointed downward to Earth. Read on to learn more about the Whirling Dervishes show, how to book tickets, its timings, and other information to plan your visit.
Go for: Whirling Dervish Show tickets at Sultanahmet or Hodjapasha
Duration: 1 hour
Audio guide: No
Recommended tickets:
Go for: Combo tickets
Duration: Flexible (1 hour Whirling Dervish Show)
Audio guide: Yes
Recommended tickets:
Saturday to Sunday: 7 PM
Duration: 1 hour
Note:
Address: Hodja Pasha, Hodja Pasha Mahallesi Ankara Caddesi, Hodja Pasha Hamamı Sk. No:3 D: B, 34110 Fatih, İstanbul, Turkey
The Hagia Sophia, an orthodox church-turned-mosque, is a splendid marvel of Byzantine architecture. It boasts a stunning dome and exquisite mosaics, reflecting its rich history.
Visit the Hagia SophiaThe Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir in Istanbul has an eerie beauty. Supported by marble columns, it once supplied water to the Byzantine Great Palace.
Explore the Basilica CisternThe Topkapi Palace, Istanbul's former imperial residence, showcases Ottoman opulence. Its sprawling grounds feature ornate courtyards, impressive architecture, and exhibits displaying artifacts from the Sultans' era.
Visit the Topkapi PalaceDolmabahce Palace, a symbol of Ottoman grandeur on the Bosphorus, served as the modern palace for Ottoman sultans. Its European-influenced design and lavish interiors captivate visitors.
Explore the Dolmabahce PalaceYes, you can book Whirling Dervishes show tickets online. In fact, it is recommended that you buy their tickets online to save time and money.
The best way to book Whirling Dervishes show tickets is to get them online. Online ticket bookings ensure that you do not have to stand in long lines or miss your attraction on a crowded day.
You can watch the Whirling Dervishes show at Sultanahmet or Hodjapasha in Old Istanbul. Both venues are located not far from Topkapi Palace.
The best way to reach the Hodjapasha Cultural Center is to catch the M2 metro or board any of the buses numbered 28, 30D, 46C, 66, 99Y, and EM1 and get off at Sirkeci station.
The Whirling Dervishes show begins at 7 PM in the evening every day throughout the year at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center.
The introduction speech about the Mevlevi order and Sufi order of Enlightenment may last for 5 minutes, followed by the Sufi music introduction for 10 minutes. The performance lasts for around 45 to 50 minutes. Overall, the show is wrapped up within an hour.
The Whirling Dervishes show is a one-in-a-kind experience, as the audience has a role to play in creating the Sema atmosphere. As the audience watches the Sufi mystic pass through the stages to attain spiritual fulfillment, they also experience a shift in their energy, which contributes to making the performance a success.
It is best to reach at least 30 minutes before the Whirling Dervishes show begins. Latecomers beyond 10 minutes won’t be admitted into the venue, as it will disturb the peaceful ceremony. If you fail to reach on time, your tickets will be considered a no-show and you will not receive any refunds.
Phones and cameras are not allowed inside the show hall, so you cannot click pictures of the whirling dervishes during their performance.
The Hodjapasha is a 15th-century old bathhouse in Istanbul. The venue is not accessible to visitors on wheelchairs.
The Whirling Dervishes is a unique spiritual dance performance that you must witness at least once in your lifetime. The Sufi mystics also called semazen, wear long, white cloaks with flowing skirts and dance to commune with the Divine.
While there are lots of Sufi performances held on the outskirts of the city, the best place to watch the Whirling Dervishes show is the Hodjapasha Cultural Center. It is a bathhouse dating back to the 15th century.
The Whirling Dervishes show is not appropriate for children under 7 years of age. The show depicts the various stages a Sufi mystic goes through before reaching ultimate enlightenment. The ceremony must be completed peacefully, hence children are not allowed to watch the shows.
If you have purchased Whirling Dervishes show tickets online, you can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins, and get a full refund on your purchase.
Plan a full-day tour in Istanbul, where you visit famous landmarks like Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, and Hagia Sophia, and catch the Whirling Dervishes show in Hodjapasha Cultural center at 7 in the evening.
Absolutely! The Whirling Dervishes show in Istanbul is an age-old tradition that came from the 13th-century Persian poet, Jalaluddin Rumi. It is a unique practice, where devotees twirl on and on to commune with the Divine and reach spiritual fulfillment.
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and Bosphorus Strait are some of Istanbul’s most popular attractions.
Istanbul tickets can be purchased online or on-site. It is recommended to buy them online to avoid last minute hassle and long queues.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Istanbul. You can explore the historic Old City, take a boat ride on the Bosphorus, visit a Hammam (Turkish bath), indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, and shop at the Grand Bazaar.
Absolutely! Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. You won’t be disappointed.
While Istanbul has made efforts to become more accessible, it can still be challenging for those with mobility issues. Be sure to do your research before visiting and book accessible accommodations.
Take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, watch a Whirling Dervish performance, and take a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus for some unique experiences in Istanbul.
The best time to visit Istanbul is in the spring (April to May) or fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller.
Turkish breakfast, Turkish delight, and baklava are some of the must-try dishes in Istanbul.
Plan to spend at least 3-4 days in Istanbul to fully explore the city and its attractions.
Book your tickets online to get some great deals and discounts.
You can take a romantic sunset cruise on the Bosphorus, enjoy a couples’ hammam experience, and indulge in a private Turkish dinner.
Visit free attractions like parks and mosques, explore local markets, and indulge in street food.
Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro, and trams. Taxis and car rental services are also available.
Pack comfortable and modest clothing suitable for the weather. Respectful attire is required in mosques and other religious sites.
Yes, Istanbul has plenty of family-friendly activities, including theme parks, aquariums, and museums.
The Chora Church, The SALT Galata, The Basilica Cistern, The Princes' Islands are some of the best off-beat locations in Istanbul.