Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

4.3664393 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.3664393 out of 5 stars
3957 reviews
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Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
4.3664393 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.3664393 out of 5 stars
3957 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

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Duration 1 hour
Check availability to see starting times

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

J
Jessica – United States

The live music and historical building combined with the show was a special treat.

Y
Yassine – Netherlands

A unique and cultural experience in a beautiful venue. The atmosphere creates a special ambiance, and it's interesting to witness this traditional ritual live. However, the whirling itself can feel repetitive after a while and, to be honest, a bit dull if you're not deeply connected to the spiritual or cultural background. Still, it's worth experiencing once for the cultural value and setting.

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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

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 3957 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.2/5
  • Value for money
    4.1/5

Customer photos

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J
Jessica – United StatesJune 8, 2025 – Verified booking
The live music and historical building combined with the show was a special treat.
Y
Yassine – NetherlandsMay 29, 2025 – Verified booking
A unique and cultural experience in a beautiful venue. The atmosphere creates a special ambiance, and it's interesting to witness this traditional ritual live. However, the whirling itself can feel repetitive after a while and, to be honest, a bit dull if you're not deeply connected to the spiritual or cultural background. Still, it's worth experiencing once for the cultural value and setting.
A
Andrew – AustraliaMay 23, 2025 – Verified booking
This is so much more than just seeing a performance by the Whirling Dervishes. It is an opportunity to understand the Sufi sect of Islam and their religious practices and history, and spend an hour being immersed in their music, spiritual beliefs and practices.

Product ID: 21283

Activity provider:HodjaPasha Culture Center

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