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"The Ihlara Valley" a Ihlara Travel Page by acemj

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"The Ihlara Valley" a Ihlara Travel Page by acemj

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acemj   
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Real Name: Mark
Lives In: Philadelphia, US
Member Since: Sep 02, 2000
VT Rank: 15

 

Page Views: 675            Last Visit to Ihlara: April, 2008      

The Ihlara Valley

by acemj - last update: May 18, 2008

Me in the valley
The Ihlara Valley is a beautiful gorge that cuts through cliffs that comprise the 8th largest canyon in the world at the southern end of Cappadocia about 45 kilometers southeast of Aksaray. Melendiz Suyu, the river winds its way down the valley floor adds to the overall atmosphere with the sound of the cold water running downstream about 16 kilometers from Selime to Ihlara (I walked the opposite way upriver).
The valley was once a popular retreat for monks in the area and evidence of its religious history is scattered along the edges of the river in the form of dozens of churches that were carved into the soft cliffs. You're also likely to be accompanied by birds and some other small wildlife that seem to enjoy the sound of the stream and the peaceful environment here.
There are four entry points to the valley, but the most popular is the main parking lot between Ihlara and Belisirma, which offers hikers a respectable 2 to 3 hour trek that includes the majority of the churches in the canyon.

I came here with a small tour group, but it's possible to reach the valley from Aksaray. There are four minibuses per day that come through Selime and arrive in Ihlara.

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acemj's Ihlara Travel Tips

OverviewThings to Do
Tips: 5 - Photos: 17
 
Restaurants
Tips: 1 - Photos: 3
Hotels & Accommodations
 
NightlifeOff The Beaten Path
Tips: 1 - Photos: 2
 
Tourist TrapsWarnings Or Dangers
 
TransportationLocal Customs
 
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Comments for acemj about Ihlara
Bwana_Brown Sun Mar 29, 2009 11:57 UTC
 Mark, what a fantastic little trip - now I see why everyone raves about the Cappadocia! Loved your bird's-eye view of the canyon. I would also like to wish you a very Happy Birthday and, wow - congrats to the beautiful married couple on your Home page!!
b1bob Mon May 19, 2008 02:42 UTC
 Nice job!

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