Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul (Hodjapasha)

Everyday Guarantee Departures
1 Day
1 City
52 Reviews

Places to Visit

Hodjapasha Culture House

Tour Details Tour ID 92

Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul: An Enchanting Sufi Experience

The dervishes are known for their distinctive form of worship that involves whirling, a physically and mentally intense meditation that aims to bring the dervish closer to God. The whirling is performed in a long, white skirt that symbolizes the dervish's tombstone, and a tall conical hat that represents their ego being laid to rest. 

The ceremony, known as the Sema, is a form of worship that combines music, poetry, and dance. The whirling itself is a repetitive and hypnotic motion that is meant to induce a state of trance in the dervish, allowing them to enter into a deeper connection with the divine.


Starting Point : Istanbul


Duration :  2 Hours 


Language : English


Highlights

  • Istanbul
  • Dervishes
  • Sema
  • Hodjapasha Culture House
  • Sufi Experience

Tour Program

  • 17:00 PM: Arrive at the venue and take your seats for the performance. The Whirling Dervishes are a mystical Islamic sect known for their unique ritualistic dance, known as the Sema, which is performed as a form of worship and spiritual meditation.

Address: Hoca Paşa, Hoca Paşa Mahallesi Ankara Caddesi, Hocapaşa Hamamı Sk. No:3 D:B, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Google Map Link : https://g.co/kgs/bVJrMso

.✅ Inclusion :

  • Entrance Ticket of Hodjapasha

❌Exclusions :

  • Photos and videos

What are Whirling Dervishes?

The Whirling Dervishes are a Sufi religious group in Istanbul who are known for their unique form of worship through whirling, a meditative dance performed during the Sema ceremony.

Where can I see the Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul?

Visitors can experience the captivating display of spirituality at the Mevlana Cultural Center in Istanbul.

What should I wear to a Whirling Dervish performance?

It is recommended to dress modestly and wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement. Head coverings are also required for both men and women.

What is the history of Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul?

The tradition of Whirling Dervishes dates back to the 13th century and was founded by the Sufi mystic Rumi. It is a form of worship and meditation that is still practiced today.

How long does a Whirling Dervish performance last?

Typically, a Whirling Dervish performance lasts for about 45 minutes to an hour.

Are there any restrictions for attending a Whirling Dervish performance?

Visitors should respect the religious nature of the ceremony and refrain from taking photos or videos during the performance. Also, it is important to be mindful of the performers and not disturb their meditation.

Can I purchase tickets in advance?

Yes, tickets can be purchased in advance through various tour providers or at the Mevlana Cultural Center.

Is there a dress code for the performance?

Yes, it is recommended to dress modestly and wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement. Head coverings are also required for both men and women.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts

For further assistance please feel free to call +905434428069

Operator Name : Hodjapasha

Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul (Hodjapasha)

Everyday Guarantee Departures
1 Day
1 City
52 Reviews
Customer reviews
4.8 avg based on 52 reviews
Dylan X.
Dec 2024

The skip-the-line option was perfect! We saved so much time and got to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Hagia Sophia without the long wait.

Ella U.
Dec 2024

We entered without waiting in line, which was a huge advantage! It made our visit to Hagia Sophia much more enjoyable and stress-free.

Ellie C.
Dec 2024

The dervishes performed with such devotion and elegance. The ceremony was mesmerizing, and the atmosphere was so peaceful.

Nathan P.
Dec 2024

The Sufi music and the whirling dervishes created a beautiful harmony. The whole experience was deeply moving and peaceful.

Hannah L.
Dec 2024

An incredible experience full of culture and spirituality. The performance was calming and inspiring. I highly recommend visiting Hodjapasha.

Gabriel G.
Dec 2024

Watching the Sema ceremony was a profound experience. The whirling was hypnotic, and the spiritual energy in the room was palpable.

Zoe H.
Dec 2024

I appreciated the serene and meditative atmosphere. The dervishes performed with such grace, and the music was soothing.

Samuel W.
Dec 2024

The whirling was so elegant, and the music was enchanting. This experience brought me closer to understanding Sufi culture.

Evelyn F.
Dec 2024

The performance was both spiritual and artistic. The whirling dervishes were captivating to watch, and the atmosphere was peaceful.

Andrew K.
Dec 2024

A wonderful cultural experience. The Sufi ceremony was inspiring, and the dervishes’ devotion was evident in their movements.

Victoria B.
Dec 2024

The dervishes’ whirling was so graceful and meditative. It felt like witnessing a sacred ritual. A must-see experience in Istanbul.

Matthew Z.
Dec 2024

A deeply spiritual experience. The whirling dervishes' movements and the accompanying music were mesmerizing. A highlight of my trip to Istanbul.

Scarlett M.
Dec 2024

This was my first time seeing a Sufi ceremony, and it was amazing. The dervishes performed with such grace and devotion. Highly recommended.

Daniel U.
Dec 2024

The ceremony was incredibly peaceful. The music, the chanting, and the whirling all came together beautifully. It was a touching experience.

Chloe J.
Dec 2024

The dervishes' performance was hypnotic and calming. I could feel the spiritual energy in the room. An unforgettable cultural experience.

Michael I.
Dec 2024

A truly unique experience. The combination of dance, music, and spiritual devotion was captivating. The whirling was magical to watch.

Madison X.
Dec 2024

Watching the dervishes whirl was mesmerizing. The whole ceremony felt like a prayer in motion. It was a unique and serene experience.

Alexander Q.
Dec 2024

I was impressed by the elegance and dedication of the dervishes. The ceremony was peaceful and spiritually uplifting. A must-visit in Istanbul.

Lily A.
Dec 2024

The performance was deeply moving. The whirling had a hypnotic effect, and the music created a mystical atmosphere. A great way to experience Turkish culture.

Lucas O.
Dec 2024

A beautiful and tranquil experience. The performance was captivating and gave deep insight into Sufi culture. A must-see if you visit Istanbul.

Grace Y.
Nov 2024

This was a unique and enlightening experience. The whirling dervishes created a serene, peaceful atmosphere, and the whole ceremony was full of spiritual energy.

Benjamin R.
Nov 2024

The ceremony was captivating and peaceful. The hypnotic whirling and soothing music provided a beautiful escape. It was a moving experience.

Emily V.
Nov 2024

An unforgettable cultural experience. The dancers’ devotion was evident in every movement. The venue itself added to the deep spiritual connection felt throughout the ceremony.

William T.
Nov 2024

The Whirling Dervishes at Hodjapasha offered a truly transformative experience. The combination of movement, music, and spirituality was powerful.

Abigail Z.
Nov 2024

A serene and spiritual experience. The dancers’ movements were graceful, and the music enhanced the atmosphere. I highly recommend experiencing this while in Istanbul.

Jacob E.
Nov 2024

A mesmerizing and spiritual experience. The dervishes’ performance was graceful and hypnotic. The venue created a perfect atmosphere for the ceremony.

Harper N.
Nov 2024

The Whirling Dervishes at Hodjapasha provided an intimate and powerful experience. The spiritual depth and beauty of the ceremony were incredible. Definitely a highlight of Istanbul.

Elijah L.
Nov 2024

An incredible experience. The ceremony was moving and the dancers’ grace was captivating. I left with a sense of calm and peace. Highly recommend.

Mia S.
Nov 2024

The atmosphere in Hodjapasha was serene and peaceful. The Sufi ceremony was full of depth and beauty. I recommend this experience for anyone seeking spirituality in Istanbul.

Logan H.
Nov 2024

A fascinating and beautiful ceremony. The dervishes' whirling was captivating, and the combination of music, dance, and spiritual energy made it unforgettable.

Amelia W.
Nov 2024

A deeply meditative experience. The dervishes performed with such grace and devotion, and the setting at Hodjapasha made it even more special. Highly recommended.

James C.
Nov 2024

The whirling dervishes' performance was a beautiful blend of dance and spirituality. It was an intimate, moving experience, and the venue enhanced the atmosphere.

Charlotte G.
Nov 2024

The performance at Hodjapasha was unique and powerful. The dancers’ movements were a stunning reflection of devotion, and the atmosphere was full of spiritual energy.

Noah P.
Nov 2024

A beautiful and enriching experience. The music and the dervishes’ whirling were mesmerizing, and the venue was cozy and intimate. Definitely worth attending.

Ava K.
Nov 2024

The ceremony was moving and peaceful. I left feeling a deep sense of tranquility and connection. The whirling dervishes gave an incredible performance.

Mason F.
Nov 2024

A truly transformative experience. The energy in the room was palpable, and the whirling was mesmerizing. I highly recommend attending the ceremony at Hodjapasha.

Isabella R.
Nov 2024

I felt transported to another world during the performance. The whirling dancers were amazing, and the whole experience was peaceful and uplifting.

Liam B.
Nov 2024

The Sema ceremony was mesmerizing. The combination of music, movement, and spiritual depth was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. A must-see in Istanbul.

Sophia T.
Nov 2024

A beautiful spiritual experience. The whirling dervishes' movements were graceful and meditative. The venue at Hodjapasha provided a perfect setting for this profound ceremony.

Ethan J.
Nov 2024

The atmosphere was magical. The dervishes performed with such devotion and sincerity. This was a must-see in Istanbul for anyone interested in spirituality or Turkish culture.

Olivia M.
Nov 2024

The performance was absolutely beautiful. The dervishes' whirling was graceful and elegant. The music added so much depth to the experience. Highly recommend this cultural experience.

Christopher D.
Nov 2024

A truly spiritual and calming experience. Watching the dervishes whirl was both hypnotic and enlightening. I highly recommend attending the ceremony at Hodjapasha.

Marcus V.
Nov 2024

I loved the combination of music, dance, and poetry. The atmosphere at Hodjapasha was calm yet intense, and the whirling dancers gave a beautiful insight into Sufi traditions.

Annie D.
Nov 2024

The Whirling Dervishes performance at Hodjapasha was mesmerizing. The spiritual energy in the room was incredible, and the dancers' movements were graceful. It was an unforgettable experience.

Giselle T.
Nov 2024

The tour in Istanbul was a captivating journey into the world of Sufi mysticism. The rhythmic whirling, symbolic attire, and meditative atmosphere created a profound sense of awe and reverence. It was a beautiful expression of faith and a remarkable cultural experience yes

Felicity G.
Nov 2024

Participating in the Whirling Dervishes tour was a truly unique and immersive cultural experience. The graceful whirling movements, accompanied by the enchanting music and poetry, transported me to a state of tranquility and allowed me to witness the devotion and spiritual depth of the dervishes yesheart

Erin B.
Nov 2024

The Whirling Dervishes of Istanbul tour was a mesmerizing and spiritually uplifting experience. The Sema ceremony, with its captivating music, poetry, and whirling dance, created a profound sense of connection to the divine and left a lasting impression heartyes

Eric
Nov 2024

The Whirling Dervishes of Istanbul tour was a mesmerizing and spiritual experience. The Sema ceremony, with its music, poetry, and whirling dance, was captivating and allowed for a deeper understanding of the Mevlevi Order's practices. It was truly a glimpse into the mystical world of Sufism.

fallon j.
Oct 2024

Attending a Whirling Dervishes Show is a unique opportunity to witness a traditional form of Turkish culture and spirituality. The performances are usually held in historic venues, such as old mosques or converted caravanserais, adding to the mystical and enchanting atmosphere of the experience.heartsmileyyes

lily keith
Oct 2024

Overall, a Whirling Dervishes Show Tour is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in exploring the spiritual and cultural heritage of Istanbul. It's a captivating and unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Sufi culture.yes

emilia
Oct 2024

During the performance, the Whirling Dervishes wear traditional white robes and conical hats, and they spin in circles while performing various rituals and prayers. The spinning motion is said to represent the turning of the universe and the seeker's journey towards spiritual enlightenment. we were very happy to be part of this tour.heartyes

bianca p.
Oct 2024

If you're interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul, a Whirling Dervishes (Sema) Show Tour can be a fascinating experience. The Whirling Dervishes are members of the Mevlevi Order, a Sufi Muslim group founded in the 13th century, and their performances are based on a form of physical meditation called sema.smiley

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