Konya: The City Of Whirling Dervishes

Konya is one of the most important cities in Turkey, located in the Central Anatolia region of the country. The city gracefully earns the title with its famous Mevlana, the Sufi mystic mostly known as Rumi worldwide. Being the symbol of tolerance and humanism, Rumi has guided many people on this journey we call life.

Here you can catch a whirling dervishes show performed by the followers of Rumi. It is a great performance, opening many spiritual paths for the watchers. You should also see Rumi’s Mausoleum and learn more about his life and his philosophy.

In Konya, you can also see one of the Seljukian architectural masterpieces Sultanhan Caravanserai. It is a glorious historical building that was used as a hotel used by travelers of the time for eating and spending the night.

For a spiritual awakening, Konya is waiting for you with open arms.

Konya, being a major city in Turkey, is quite well connected and can be reached by various means of transport:

By Air: Konya Airport is located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. The airport serves both domestic and international flights. From Istanbul, the flight takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes.

By Train: Turkey’s high-speed train network, YHT, connects Konya with other major cities such as Ankara (about 2 hours), Istanbul (about 4 hours), and Eskisehir (about 2 hours). The train station is centrally located in Konya and is easily accessible.

By Bus: Konya has an extensive bus network and is connected with almost all the major cities of Turkey. Bus services are frequent and comfortable.

By Car: If you’re driving, Konya can be reached via the D-330 and D-715 highways. From Istanbul, the drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, and from Ankara, it takes around 3-4 hours.

Here’s what you might consider packing for a trip to Konya depending on the season:

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November):

Moderate weather clothing, including T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and trousers.

A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city.

A rain jacket or umbrella, as spring and autumn, can occasionally have rain.

Summer (June-August):

Lightweight clothing to help deal with the heat. Loose, breathable clothing is ideal.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.

Despite the heat, if you’re planning on visiting any religious sites, you’ll need to dress modestly. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Comfortable sandals or walking shoes.

Winter (December-February):

Warm clothing, including coats, sweaters, and long pants. A thermal underlayer can also be helpful.

Accessories like gloves, scarves, and a hat to protect against the cold.

Waterproof shoes or boots, as there can be snow.

General:

Personal toiletries, prescription medicine if needed, and a first aid kit.

If you plan on using any electronics, Turkey uses the Type F power socket, and the standard voltage is 220 V. You may need a power plug adapter or voltage converter.

A lightweight backpack or bag for daily essentials when out exploring.

Copies of important documents like passport, visa, and travel insurance.

Turkish phrasebook or translation app, as not everyone might speak English.

Travel guide or map of the city.

Water bottle to stay hydrated during your explorations.

Around Mevlana Museum and City Center: This is the heart of the city where many historical sites, restaurants, and shops are located. Staying here gives you easy access to most of the main attractions. Hotels in this area include:

Dedeman Konya Hotel Convention Center: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop swimming pool offering panoramic views of the city.

Novotel Konya: Another modern choice offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location, with facilities including a restaurant, fitness center, and business facilities.

Pasapark Collection Selcuklu: A highly rated boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location close to Mevlana Museum.

Near Alaaddin Boulevard: This area is another convenient location with many shops, restaurants, and access to the city’s main sights. Accommodations in this area include:

Konya Dervish Hotel: A boutique hotel with traditional décor reflecting the city’s rich history, located close to the Alaaddin Mosque.

Selcuk Hotel: A classic hotel with comfortable rooms, located within walking distance to major attractions like the Mevlana Museum and Alaaddin Mosque.

Near Konya University: This area is a bit further from the city center, but still offers a good range of accommodations and is close to the botanical garden and other attractions.

Ibis Konya: Part of the international Ibis chain, this hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms at reasonable rates.

The city experiences hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters.

Summer (June to September): Summers in Konya are hot, with temperatures often rising above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Despite the heat, it’s also relatively dry during this period, with infrequent rainfall.

Autumn (October to November): Autumn sees cooler temperatures and a gradual increase in rainfall. It’s a transitional period between the hot summers and cold winters.

Winter (December to February): Winters in Konya are cold and often snowy, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. January is typically the coldest month.

Spring (March to May): Spring is another transitional season with gradually warming temperatures and increasing daylight hours. Rainfall is relatively higher during this period, making the landscape green and lush.

The best time to visit Konya depends on what you’re looking to do and the weather you prefer. However, typically, the best times to visit Konya are in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November).

Spring (April to June): During the spring, the weather is generally pleasant, and the landscape is vibrant and green. The temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing, and the tourist crowds are relatively smaller.

Autumn (September to November): Similarly, the autumn months offer moderate temperatures and lesser crowds, making it a great time to visit. The city is also beautifully colored with the hues of autumn.

Summer (June to August): Summers in Konya can be quite hot, but if you don’t mind the heat, this is when you can take part in several local festivals and events. Do note that it’s the peak tourist season, so attractions may be crowded, and prices for accommodations can be higher.

Winter (December to February): Winters are cold and often snowy. It’s a good time to visit if you enjoy winter weather, but keep in mind that some outdoor activities might be limited due to the weather conditions. However, you can still visit the Mevlana Museum and other indoor attractions.

In December, the city hosts the annual Mevlana Whirling Dervishes Festival, a significant event in Konya that attracts tourists from around the world.

Konya is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back thousands of years. Here is a brief overview:

Ancient Times: The region was first settled during the Neolithic Age. It was part of the Hittite empire in ancient times, and later it was conquered by Phrygians in the 12th century BC. After the fall of Phrygians, Lydians, and then Persians took over the region.

Roman and Byzantine Periods: The city, then known as Iconium, became part of the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire. It was an important Christian city during these periods.

Seljuk Rule: In the 11th century, Seljuk Turks captured the city from the Byzantines. It was renamed Konya and became the capital of the Sultanate of Rum. The city flourished during this period, and many beautiful buildings were constructed, such as the Alaeddin Mosque and the caravanserais. The Sufi poet Rumi also lived in Konya during this period.

Ottoman Era: Konya was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. It continued to be an important city, although it lost some of its former prominence. The tomb of Rumi, located in Konya, became a site of pilgrimage.

Modern Times: After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Konya became part of the Republic of Turkey. Today, it is a bustling city known for its historical sites, and cultural heritage, and as a center for agriculture and industry.

It’s important to note that while this history covers some of the key points, the history of Konya is very rich and complex, with many cultural influences due to its strategic location and long history.

Konya has a rich history and cultural heritage, and there are a number of ‘firsts’ and ‘greatest’ associated with it:

Capital of Seljuks: Konya is most famous as the capital of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum in the Middle Ages. The Seljuks transformed the city into a center of learning and culture, with beautiful architecture, libraries, and schools.

Birthplace of Whirling Dervishes: Konya is the birthplace of the Mevlevi order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, founded by the followers of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic jurist, and theologian.

Home to Rumi: Konya is the city where Rumi spent most of his life and wrote his most influential works. His tomb, located in the Mevlana Museum, is a place of pilgrimage for his followers.

Historical Buildings: The city is home to several historical buildings and landmarks. The Alaeddin Mosque, for instance, is the oldest mosque in Konya, built during the Seljuk period.

Cuisine: Konya’s cuisine has a great reputation throughout Turkey. The city is particularly famous for its ‘etli ekmek’ (a kind of pizza with minced meat) and ‘tirit’ (a soup made from lamb and bread).

Cultural Events: The annual Mevlana Whirling Dervishes Festival in Konya is one of the city’s most significant cultural events, attracting tourists from around the world. This event is a beautiful expression of Sufi mysticism and Turkish heritage.

Here are a few of them:

Mevlana Museum: This is the mausoleum of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, the famous Sufi saint, and poet, also known as Mevlana or Rumi. The site serves as both a museum and a place of pilgrimage.

Alaeddin Mosque: Built during the rule of the Seljuk Sultan, Alaeddin Keykubad, the mosque is situated on Alaeddin Hill in the center of the city. It’s one of the oldest mosques in Turkey and a notable example of Seljuk architecture.

Seljuk Palace Ruins: These are situated on Alaeddin Hill, just behind the Alaeddin Mosque. You can see the remains of the palace walls and royal tombs here.

Ince Minareli Medrese: This is a 13th-century medrese (Islamic school) turned museum. The site is named for its elegant, intricately carved minaret.

Aziziye Mosque: A beautiful mosque that showcases Ottoman architectural styles.

Karapinar Field and Meke Lake: While not in Konya city itself, this natural site is in the Konya province. It is a crater lake formed by a volcanic eruption and is a spectacular sight.

Sille: A small village near Konya that has been continuously inhabited for nearly a thousand years. It’s home to several historical sites, including Aya-Elena Church, a 1,500-year-old Christian church.

Meram: A district of Konya, known for its beautiful views, historic houses, and springs. The Meram Bridge here dates back to the Seljuk period.

Without a doubt, the most famous person in the history of Konya is Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, commonly known as Rumi, a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic jurist, and theologian. His profound and beautiful poetry has made a significant impact worldwide and continues to inspire millions.

Rumi was born in 1207 in present-day Afghanistan. His family moved to Konya to escape the Mongol invasions, and he lived there for most of his life. Rumi was introduced to the mystical path by a wandering dervish, Shams of Tabriz. Their close relationship deeply influenced Rumi’s spiritual development, and the loss of Shams led Rumi to express his profound spiritual longing and love through his poetry.

Rumi’s major work is the “Mathnawi”, a six-volume epic regarded by many as the greatest spiritual masterpiece was ever written. His other significant work, “Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi”, is dedicated to his spiritual mentor, Shams.

Rumi’s teachings also led to the establishment of the Mevlevi Order, also known as the Order of the Whirling Dervishes, famous for their Sufi dance known as the Sama ceremony.

Today, Rumi’s tomb is located in Konya and is a place of pilgrimage, attracting visitors from all around the world. It’s also a museum and a testament to Rumi’s enduring influence.

Here are the 15 best activities and attractions you should consider:

1. 1. Visit the Mevlana Museum: This mausoleum of the Sufi mystic Rumi is a must-visit site. It also houses an impressive collection of artifacts and manuscripts related to Rumi’s life and work.
   2. Explore the Alaeddin Mosque: As one of the most important works of Seljuk architecture, this mosque on Alaeddin Hill is worth a visit.
   3. Stroll around Alaeddin Hill: The hill itself is home to the remnants of an old palace and offers great views of the city.
   4. Visit Ince Minareli Medrese: Once an Islamic school, now it serves as a museum of wood and stone carving arts.
   5. Check out Aziziye Mosque: This mosque showcases the grandeur of Ottoman architecture.
   6. Explore the Konya Ethnography Museum: This museum provides an excellent insight into traditional Turkish life and culture.
   7. Walk around Ataturk House Museum: The house gives you a glimpse of Ataturk’s life and Turkish history.
   8. Visit the Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden: A great place to visit, especially if you’re traveling with children.
   9. Explore the Konya Archaeological Museum: It houses a great collection of artifacts from the prehistoric era through the Byzantine period.
   10. Stroll around Sille: A charming old village just outside Konya with ancient churches and homes.
   11. Visit the Karatay Medrese: Now a museum, it exhibits beautiful Seljuk tiles.
   12. Visit the Japanese Garden: A peaceful green area perfect for relaxation.
   13. Enjoy local cuisine: Try out local dishes like etli ekmek (a type of meat pizza) and bıçak arası (sliced meat dish).
   14. Attend the Whirling Dervishes Ceremony: Witness the spiritual dance of the Whirling Dervishes, especially during the annual Mevlana Whirling Dervishes Festival in December.
   15. Visit Meram: This district is known for its beautiful views, historic houses, and springs.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Konya:

Mevlana Museum: This is the resting place of the Sufi mystic and poet, Rumi. It’s a significant pilgrimage site and one of the main attractions of Konya. The museum houses artifacts related to Rumi and the Mevlevi order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes.

Alaeddin Mosque: This is an impressive example of Seljuk architecture, located atop Alaeddin Hill. It was built during the reign of Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad.

Seljuk Tower: As the tallest building in Konya, the Seljuk Tower offers a panoramic view of the city.

Karatay Madrasa: This was once an Islamic educational institution and is now a museum showcasing Seljuk tiles and ceramics.

Ince Minaret Madrasa: Another converted Islamic school, now serving as a museum for stone and woodwork.

Sille Subasi: This is a quaint village just outside Konya, with beautiful old Greek houses and several ancient churches.

Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden: This is the largest butterfly garden in Europe and Asia, and it houses thousands of butterflies.

Meram: Known for its beautiful views, springs, and historic houses, this district is perfect for leisurely walks.

Konya Science Center: If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place for them to learn while having fun.

Japanese Garden: For a relaxing time, visit this beautifully designed garden.

Here are some recommended tours:

Full-Day Konya Tour: These tours usually include visits to the Mevlana Museum, Selimiye Mosque, and other notable landmarks. Some tour operators also offer a chance to attend a traditional Sema (Whirling Dervishes) performance.

Half-Day Konya City Tour: If you’re short on time, this tour covers the main highlights of Konya, including the Mevlana Museum and Alaeddin Mosque.

Konya Food Tour: Experience Konya through its food. This tour typically includes tasting local specialties like “Etli Ekmek” and “Bicak Arasi.”

Sille Village Tour: Explore the historic village of Sille on the outskirts of Konya, home to ancient churches and charming old houses.

Cappadocia and Konya 2-Day Tour from Istanbul: This tour combines the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and the spiritual heritage of Konya, including an overnight stay in a cave hotel in Cappadocia.

Whirling Dervishes Ceremony Tour: This tour offers a unique opportunity to witness a traditional Sema ceremony, a spiritual practice of the Mevlevi Order founded by the followers of Rumi.

Private Konya Tour: For a more personalized experience, you can hire a private guide who can tailor the tour to your interests.

Here are some places to visit during the winter months:

Mevlana Museum: Visit the tomb of Rumi, the Sufi mystic and poet. The museum exhibits artifacts relating to his life and the Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes.

Alaeddin Mosque: An impressive example of Seljuk architecture, this mosque is located atop Alaeddin Hill and is a fascinating place to visit, even in winter.

Karatay Madrasa: Once an Islamic school, now a museum showcasing beautiful Seljuk tiles and ceramics.

Konya Archaeological Museum: A perfect indoor activity, this museum houses a wide range of artifacts from different periods, including the prehistoric, Bronze Age, Hittite, Phrygian, and Roman periods.

Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden: Although it might be cold outside, you can enjoy the warm, tropical environment of this butterfly garden, which houses thousands of butterflies.

Konya Science Center: Especially if you’re traveling with kids, this interactive museum can be an educational and fun place to spend a winter day.

Ince Minaret Madrasa: This historical Islamic school turned museum showcases wood and stone artwork from the Seljuk era. It’s an indoor activity, suitable for winter.

Attend the Whirling Dervishes Ceremony: Winter, especially in December, is a significant time for the Mevlevi Order as they commemorate the ‘Wedding Night’ or ‘Seb-i Arus’ — the death anniversary of Rumi. It’s the best time to watch the spiritual dance of the Whirling Dervishes.

Here are some recommended destinations:

Mevlana Museum: This is the resting place of Rumi, the famous Sufi mystic and poet. The museum is a significant pilgrimage site and an excellent place to learn more about Sufism and Rumi’s teachings.

Alaeddin Mosque and Hill: Take a stroll in this historic area, visit the mosque, and enjoy the panoramic views of Konya from the hill.

Meram: This district is known for its beautiful views, springs, and historical houses. It’s a pleasant place for leisurely walks, especially during the cool evenings.

Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden: This butterfly garden is an exciting place to visit, especially with children, even during summer.

Japanese Garden: Enjoy a peaceful time in this beautifully designed garden.

Seljuk Tower: Visit the highest building in Konya, which offers a great view of the city.

Sille Subasi: This historic village just outside Konya offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visit the ancient churches, stroll through the old houses, and enjoy the serene environment.

Konya Science Center: This is a fantastic place to visit, especially if you are traveling with children. It offers a range of interactive exhibits that are both educational and fun.

Local Restaurants and Cafes: Try out local dishes and enjoy the local cuisine at some of Konya’s best restaurants and cafes.

Local Markets: Explore the local markets to get a taste of Konya’s vibrant culture, buy souvenirs, and try some local delicacies.

Konya, located in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, is known for its rich and diverse cuisine. The city is particularly famous for dishes that are centered around grains, legumes, and meat. Here are some of the traditional dishes you should try when visiting Konya:

Etli Ekmek: This is a type of Turkish pizza that is very long and thin, topped with minced meat and sometimes cheese and peppers.

Pismaniye: A sweet specialty of Konya, pismaniye is a cotton candy-like dessert made with flour, butter, and sugar, and sometimes flavored with pistachios or sesame.

Bicak Arasi: Similar to Etli Ekmek, Bicak Arasi is a thin bread stuffed with ground meat, a local favorite.

Okra Soup: Okra is a popular ingredient in Konya, and the local okra soup is well-loved.

Tirit: A traditional dish made from stale bread soaked in broth, topped with meat and various spices.

Mevlana Pide: Named after the famous philosopher and mystic Rumi, also known as Mevlana, this is a type of pide (similar to a pizza) with a variety of toppings, usually including cheese and sucuk (a dry, spicy sausage).

Firin Kebabi: This is a slow-cooked lamb dish, typically baked in a clay oven for several hours until it’s incredibly tender.

Poppy Seed Paste Dessert (Hashaslı Helva): This is a sweet delicacy made from poppy seeds.

Sizma: A type of Turkish yogurt that is often served as a side dish.

In Konya, you’ll find a range of restaurants serving both local and international cuisines. Here are a few highly recommended ones to check out:

Somatcizade Firin Kebap: This restaurant is famous for its traditional “Firin Kebap” — a slow-cooked lamb dish.

Mevlana Pide: As the name suggests, they serve excellent pide, a Turkish version of pizza with various toppings.

Haci Sukru Etli Ekmek Salonu: This is one of the best places to try the traditional “Etli Ekmek” – a long, thin piece of bread topped with minced meat and sometimes cheese and peppers.

Kuzucu Ali Etli Ekmek: Another great place to try Etli Ekmek. They also serve other traditional dishes.

Konya Lezzet Dunyasi: A good choice for a variety of traditional Turkish dishes, including kebabs and mezes.

Aziziye Restaurant: Located in an old, beautifully restored house, this place offers a menu full of traditional tastes and a cozy atmosphere.

Balkon Cafe & Restaurant: With a great view over the city, this restaurant provides a variety of options, including traditional Turkish food and some international dishes.

Tatlici Ahmet Usta: For dessert, particularly if you want to try the local specialty “Pismaniye”, a cotton candy-like sweet treat, this is the place to go.

When visiting Konya, you can find a wide array of souvenirs and gifts to take back home, representing the rich culture and history of the city. Here are some popular choices:

Pismaniye: A cotton candy-like dessert, this sweet treat is a delicacy in Konya and makes for a delicious gift.

Mevlana Souvenirs: As the city is most famous for Rumi, also known as Mevlana, you’ll find many souvenirs related to him and his teachings. This could be books of his poetry, figurines of whirling dervishes, or even jewelry with symbols related to Sufism.

Sufi Music CDs: Music is an integral part of Sufi culture. CDs with traditional Sufi music or the ‘Ney’ flute music can be a thoughtful gift for music lovers.

Turkish Ceramics and Pottery: Konya, like many parts of Turkey, is known for its beautiful ceramics and pottery, including bowls, plates, and vases, often with intricate designs.

Turkish Carpets and Rugs: Although more expensive, Turkish carpets and rugs are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship. Smaller rugs or prayer mats might be more transportable options.

Turkish Tea and Coffee: Turkey is famous for its tea and coffee, and you can find high-quality versions of both in Konya.

Spices: You can find a variety of Turkish spices in the local markets. Make sure to pack them securely for travel.

Handcrafted Souvenirs: Items like handmade Turkish lamps, embroidered scarves, and traditional clothing can also be great gifts.