Other experience

Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

4.3665867 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.3665867 out of 5 stars
3759 reviews
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Other experience
Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
4.3665867 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.3665867 out of 5 stars
3759 reviews

Witness the Mevlevi Sema ceremony in Istanbul. Enjoy a complex musical repertoire, see the whirling dervishes, and go on a journey representing man’s spiritual ascent through thoughts and love.

About this ticket

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Duration 1 hour
Check availability to see starting times.

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

T
Tariq – United Kingdom

simply amazing. don't think about just book it, you will be amazed.

S
Soheil – Canada

There was not a bad seat to watch the ceremony. All seats had a clear view. I found the ceremony very spiritual and magical in a sense. The dervishes and the accompanying Sufi music brought me to tears which I did not expect. The presentation was brilliant and made it easy to understand what was happening. I highly recommend this as a must see and experience in Istanbul.

Highlights

  • See an extraordinary dance show that dates back 800 years
  • Enter the HodjaPasha Culture Center,a restored 550-year-old Ottoman Turkish bath
  • Watch the miraculous whirling dervishes and enjoy a fantastic musical repertoire
  • Learn about the Mevlevi Sema spiritual journey
  • Experience the show's unique ambiance while sipping on complimentary drinks

Full description

Witness the Mevlevi Sema ceremony at the HodjaPasha Culture Center in central Istanbul and see the whirling dances and dervishes. Enjoy complimentary drinks during the show.
Step inside a 550-year-old Ottoman Turkish bath in Sultanahmet-Sirkeci and take your place. Learn more about the Mevlevi Sema from the provided booklet.

Marvel at this cultural dance that dates back 800 years. The program begins with a classical Turkish music concert. See the dervishes and sheikh take their place and praise the Prophet Mohammed.
Following the chant, hear the drum voice as the dervishes perform the seven-part Sema ceremony which represents the birth of humanity. The Sema ends with a Fâtiha for the souls of all prophets, martyrs, and believers, and a prayer for the salvation of the country.

Includes

  • Mevlevei Sema ceremony ticket
  • Program booklet
  • Bottled drinking water

Not suitable for

  • Children under 7 years
  • Wheelchair users

Select participants and date

Meeting point

Start your activity at Hocapaşa Culture Center, which is located about 100 meters from the Sirkeci Tram Stop.

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Important information

Not allowed

  • Photography inside

Know before you go

  • Children under the age of 7 are not permitted
  • No disruption in the performance is permitted; taking photographs, talking during the ceremony, and applause are prohibited
  • Seats are allocated on the basis of first booked first served

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 3759 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.3/5
  • Value for money
    4.1/5

Customer photos

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Recommended
T
Tariq – United Kingdom11 April 2025 – Verified booking
simply amazing. don't think about just book it, you will be amazed.
S
Soheil – Canada6 April 2025 – Verified booking
There was not a bad seat to watch the ceremony. All seats had a clear view. I found the ceremony very spiritual and magical in a sense. The dervishes and the accompanying Sufi music brought me to tears which I did not expect. The presentation was brilliant and made it easy to understand what was happening. I highly recommend this as a must see and experience in Istanbul.
E
Emily – Germany1 April 2025 – Verified booking
Immersive and small venue with history of the dance, not just the show

Product ID: 21283

Activity provider:HodjaPasha Culture Center

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