Whirling Dervishes Ceremony in Istanbul

Start Point: Your Hotel or Hodjapasha Cultural Center

Overview

Whirling Dervishes Show is one of the experiences which you get to feel history and spirituality in one. It is located in an exquisite building dating back to the 15th century which served as a Turkish bath back in time. This center now features the amazing Whirling Dervish Show. 

When the music begins to play, listen to amazing ancient sounds of instruments that fill the air along with the harmonious `Semazens` performance who have been popular for over 800 years and are seen dancing whirling throughout the performance.
When the Dervishes get into their meditative state and pass through the music guides them, it's hard to not let your imagination wander. 

This remarkable performance is not just a dance, but it is a spiritual performance that is recorded in the UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Each turn of the Dervishes brings you closer to the boundary of creation and devotion. This show lets the audience have an emotional journey with a people’s work of art at Hodjapasha. 

The evening is going to be very mystical and enchanting, and you will never forget it.
 

Tour Info

Itinerary

Arrive at Sirkeci neighborhood and enter the Hodjapasha Dance Theater to attend the Istanbul Whirling Dervish Show. Appreciate the architecture of this 15th-century edifice, which was initially utilized as a Turkish bath and now serves as a venue for ceremonial performances and traditional Turkish dance. Proceed to the bar to savor some Turkish delight and a beverage (at your own expense) prior to taking your seat in the main hall for the duration of the 1-hour performance.

The show starts with 15 minutes of exquisite traditional Turkish music. Subsequently, observe a company of ‘Semazens’ (or whirling dervishes) as they execute the Mevlevi Sema dance. Witness this 800-year-old ritual dance unfold over a period of 45 minutes. Observe the expressive movements of the Dervishes as they whirl and glide, illustrating why this dance is recognized on UNESCO’s Intangible World Heritage List.

Experience the enthusiasm of the dance as each Dervish spins in a choreographed motion resembling a white top, accompanied by Persian and classical Turkish music. Listen to the sounds of the kettledrum, flute, and cymbals performed by the theater’s musicians while enjoying the recitation of ancient Persian prayers and poetic songs.

Once the performance concludes, you are welcome to remain at the venue to relax with a drink or snack, which will be at your own expense.

Ps: There is no pick-up or drop-off service available, including for the event. For information regarding transportation options to the Hodja Pasha Culture Center venue, please contact your agent. 
 

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusion
  • Whirling Derwish Show
  • Sufi Music Concert
  • Bottled Water
Exclusion
  • Pick-up and Drop-off Service (Optional)

Cancellation Policy

2 Days Before Tour - Free Cancellation

You are eligible for a full refund if you cancel your booking at least 2 days before the scheduled start time of the experience.

However, if you cancel within 2 days of the start time, no refund will be issued, and any modification requests made during this period will not be accepted.

Please note that all cancellation deadlines are based on local time.