Istanbul: Hodja Pasha Whirling Dervishes A Mystical Evening

Immerse yourself in the mysticism of the Whirling Dervishes, a mesmerizing 1-hour show in Istanbul that celebrates the spiritual beauty of Sufi traditions and captivates audiences with its enchanting rituals.

Istanbul: Hodja Pasha Whirling Dervishes A Mystical Evening | ®ExcursionMania
Istanbul: Hodja Pasha Whirling Dervishes A Mystical Evening | ®ExcursionMania
Istanbul: Hodja Pasha Whirling Dervishes A Mystical Evening | ®ExcursionMania
Istanbul: Hodja Pasha Whirling Dervishes A Mystical Evening | ®ExcursionMania
Istanbul: Hodja Pasha Whirling Dervishes A Mystical Evening | ®ExcursionMania
Istanbul: Hodja Pasha Whirling Dervishes A Mystical Evening | ®ExcursionMania
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Istanbul: Hodja Pasha Whirling Dervishes A Mystical Evening | ®ExcursionMania

Overview

Step into a world of spirituality and culture with the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes show in Istanbul. This 1-hour performance offers an unforgettable glimpse into Sufi traditions, combining live traditional music with the captivating movements of the dervishes. Held in a historic venue, this ceremony, known as the "Sema," is more than just a show—it’s a spiritual experience that represents the soul’s journey toward divine love and unity. From the moment the music begins, you will be drawn into the profound beauty of this centuries-old practice.

The Whirling Dervishes are not merely performers; they are spiritual practitioners expressing devotion through their dance. The intricate movements of the dervishes, dressed in iconic white robes and conical hats, symbolize their journey toward enlightenment. Every turn, every step is rich with meaning, creating a harmonious blend of art and tradition. The serene atmosphere of the venue and the hauntingly beautiful live music enhance the spiritual ambiance, leaving visitors of all ages entranced.

The historic setting of the performance is an integral part of the experience. Often held in centuries-old tekkes or cultural centers, the venue adds a layer of authenticity and charm to the ceremony. The architecture and décor transport you back in time, making the evening even more memorable. Whether this is your first visit to Istanbul or you’re a returning traveler, the Whirling Dervishes show offers a timeless cultural highlight.

This performance is also an opportunity to learn about the profound meaning behind the ritual. Narration during the show explains the symbolism and significance of each element, from the music to the movements. Recognized by UNESCO as a cultural heritage, the Sema ceremony connects you to a rich spiritual tradition that continues to inspire people around the world.

A visit to Istanbul would not be complete without witnessing the Whirling Dervishes ceremony. This performance not only showcases the city’s deep cultural roots but also provides a peaceful and reflective break from the bustling city. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the last note has been played and the final spin has been performed.

As the evening comes to an end, you will leave the venue with a deeper appreciation for Turkish traditions and Sufi spirituality. Whether you are traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends, this cultural experience is a perfect addition to your time in Istanbul. It’s more than a performance—it’s a journey into the heart of a timeless tradition.

Select date, participants and language

Adult x 1 , Infant x 0

Adult

Age 7-25+

Infant

Age 0-6

Excursion Itinerary

Istanbul
Start Activities

HODJAPASHA Dervish House
Traditional dance show,
Duration: 1 Hour , Extra Fee

Witness the Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul, a 1-hour Sufi ceremony with live music and symbolic movements, offering a serene and spiritual experience in a historic setting.


Istanbul
Finish Activities

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Experience the enchanting Whirling Dervishes ceremony in a historic Istanbul venue.
  • Enjoy live traditional music accompanying the spiritual performance.
  • Discover the deep symbolism and history of the Sufi ritual, explained during the show.
  • Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of a cultural and spiritual experience.
  • Gain a deeper understanding of Turkish traditions and Sufi culture.

What's Included and What's Not?

Included

  • Admission to the Whirling Dervishes show.
  • Narration or guide explaining the significance of the ceremony.
  • Live traditional music performance.

Not Included

  • Transportation to and from the venue.
  • Food or beverages.

Not Suitable For This Activities

  • People with epilepsy

Not Allowed This Activities

  • Flash photography
  • Photography inside
  • Video recording

Important Information

What to Bring

Cash
Comfortable clothes
Daypack

Information Before Booking

  • The venue may vary depending on availability; details will be provided upon booking.
  • This is a seated performance, so guests should be prepared to sit quietly for the duration.
  • The ceremony has a spiritual focus, making it a meaningful but calm experience.

Know Before You Go

  • Transportation to the venue is not included; ensure you arrive on time.
  • Food and drinks are not available during the show.
  • Flash photography and video recording are prohibited.
  • Details of the venue and starting time will be on your voucher to avoid any confusion.

4.5/5

58
Reviews

About This Activity

Free Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve Now & Pay Later

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot and pay nothing today

Duration 1 Hours

Check availability to see starting times.

Host or Greeter

English

Pickup Optional

Please arrive at the starting point 15 minutes before the program begins to ensure a smooth and timely start to your experience.

Location

Istanbul Türkiye

Book Today

From

€45.00

per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Olena Shevchenko - Ukraine

This experience was truly wonderful spiritual, moving, and absolutely mesmerizing. I would recommend it to anyone visiting Istanbul.

Nora Baumann - Germany

This was a very unique show with a deeply mystical atmosphere. The performers’ ability to carry out this dance ritual in complete meditation was truly impressive.

See More Reviews

Customer Reviews

All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.

Overall Rating

4.5/5

Based on 58 Reviews

Guide

4.5/5

Transportation

4.5/5

Value for Money

4.5/5

By Traveler Types
By star rating
O
Olena Shevchenko - Ukraine
05 August

This experience was truly wonderful spiritual, moving, and absolutely mesmerizing. I would recommend it to anyone visiting Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

M
Marcel Wessels - Netherlands
03 August

A beautiful and respectful experience rich in culture you definitely shouldn’t miss it! There’s also a small museum that’s worth visiting while you’re there.

Helpful? Yes

N
Nora Baumann - Germany
28 July

This was a very unique show with a deeply mystical atmosphere. The performers’ ability to carry out this dance ritual in complete meditation was truly impressive.

Helpful? Yes

A
Aksel Johansen - Norway
24 July

This experience was absolutely mesmerizing and ranks among the best performances I’ve ever witnessed. The dancers are incredibly divine and spiritual, evoking a deep sense of calm and wonder. I would definitely return just to see them again.

Helpful? Yes

M
Milica Radović - Bulgaria
18 July

A truly authentic and captivating experience. Seating is assigned based on your booking time, and you collect your tickets at the desk upon arrival.

Helpful? Yes

T
Tristan Leclerc - France
16 July

A mystical experience that feels completely authentic and not touristy. There was no opportunity for clapping, photos, or videos, which made it even more captivating and genuine. Very interesting.

Helpful? Yes

V
Viktorie Blahová - Czech Republic
11 July

An excellent performance by the dancing Dervishes a deeply meditative and spiritual dance. The musicians provide a unique and captivating accompaniment to the show.

Helpful? Yes

J
Jorrit de Vries - Netherlands
07 July

This is an experience you shouldn’t miss! The music and spiritual whirlwinds carry you away. While understanding English or Turkish helps, the performance itself is so captivating that it enchants everyone, regardless of language.

Helpful? Yes

B
Bruna Costa - Portugal
05 July

The ceremony follows special symbolic codes. It’s important to take some time to read the explanations beforehand to fully grasp the meaning of its different parts. This is not simply a show; it was a beautiful and mystical moment.

Helpful? Yes

E
Elias Weber - Germany
01 July

A good experience suitable for those over 10 years old and especially recommended for Muslims. The museum was also informative with many details. If you plan to take a cruise afterward, I suggest booking the 5 pm show.

Helpful? Yes

A
Agnieszka Majewska - Poland
27 June

Locating the venue for the ceremony was straightforward using a simple paper map. The event started on time, lasted about an hour, and was quite engaging. Since we booked online, we were assigned front row seats.

Helpful? Yes

J
João Pires - Portugal
24 June

This is a cultural and educational experience rather than a typical show, as some might expect. You witness the ceremony of the Sufi Dervishes of the Mevlevi order. Above the ceremony, there are explanations of each stage displayed on the wall, helping you to understand what is happening. It’s both fascinating and insightful.

Helpful? Yes

A
Ari Saarinen - Finland
20 June

I booked online and found the setup well organized. The seating was well arranged, and the venue was well maintained. During the ceremony, no photos, videos, or applause are allowed. It’s a very special ritual lasting around 45 minutes, accompanied by continuous music. Even though I had read about its meaning, I sometimes found it a bit dull.

Helpful? Yes

Z
Zuzana Vránová - Czech Republic
16 June

This was a fascinating and engaging experience. I truly enjoyed it and felt quite calm and peaceful afterward. I would definitely recommend this activity.

Helpful? Yes

P
Petar Knežević - Serbia
12 June

The performance of this solemn religious ceremony was excellent. Arrive about 20 minutes early to read the informative panels in the waiting area, which explain the history, musical instruments, and attire of the Dervishes.

Helpful? Yes

K
Kristina Georgieva - Bulgaria
09 June

A truly unique experience. No amount of reading could compare to the sensation of the wind brushing my face from the spinning hems during the ceremony.

Helpful? Yes

R
Romain Girard - Cyprus
30 May

Watching the ceremony was hypnotic, showcasing incredible concentration. Keep in mind that photography is not allowed, and this isn’t a performance where applause is expected. We chose this place because it’s more traditional and less touristy, though some attendees seemed unaware of this.

Helpful? Yes

M
Maximilian Hofer - Austria
29 May

They were very punctual with the schedule, and the staff were attentive and friendly. It’s a part of Turkish tradition, and I found the experience very fascinating.

Helpful? Yes

S
Stanisław Nowicki - Poland
27 May

The music and dance create a connection to the divine, offering a powerful experience. However, the audience remains just that spectators, without full involvement in the ritual.

Helpful? Yes

D
Dagny Olavsdottir - Iceland
25 May

Watching the whirling dervishes is a unique and essential experience. The ceremony lasts under an hour and is deeply religious. However, the price of 35 euros seems high compared to the service provided and feels quite expensive.

Helpful? Yes

E
Eliano Bellini - Italy
23 May

This is an incredible experience rather than a typical tourist show, making it feel more intimate, meditative, and heartwarming. It’s a must for anyone interested in meditation and the spiritual side of the dervishes.

Helpful? Yes

H
Helene Müller - Germany
14 May

Witnessing the whirling dervishes is a unique experience and definitely worth seeing. The ceremony is under an hour long and deeply rooted in religious tradition.

Helpful? Yes

K
Kristian Bakken - Norway
09 May

We received good information before the show began, and its length was reasonable. The atmosphere was quiet and spiritual, though the room could have been cooler. It would also be great to preserve the historical elements as they were originally.

Helpful? Yes

B
Brandy Marsh - United Kingdom
06 May

The show wasn't quite what I had imagined. While it didn’t become a personal favorite, I understand why it has such a wide appeal. If the premise interests you, I’d still recommend giving it a watch.

Helpful? Yes

M
Mariana Gates - France
02 May

This served as a nice introduction to the culture, though some might find the repeated dance and music sequences a bit monotonous after a while.

Helpful? Yes

A
Abe Marks - Italy
28 April

The experience felt more like witnessing a sacred ceremony rather than the entertainment focused event we had anticipated.

Helpful? Yes

M
Moshe Franco - Germany
26 April

This was truly an incredible experience that left a lasting impression.

Helpful? Yes

N
Norris Blevins - Netherlands
21 April

This provided a wonderful chance to explore Islam's spiritual dimension, and I was deeply touched by the experience.

Helpful? Yes

B
Bernardo Rice - Spain
17 April

Absolutely outstanding and breathtaking I couldn't recommend it more highly.

Helpful? Yes

B
Britt Cherry - United Kingdom
15 April

It felt truly privileged to be invited to observe such an emotional ceremony while discovering Turkey's rich history and its profound spiritual heritage.

Helpful? Yes

I
Irvin Herring - Germany
13 April

Truly spectacular in every way!

Helpful? Yes

C
Carlos Mendoza - Spain
09 April

Excellent value for money! You genuinely feel like you're experiencing an authentic cultural and spiritual event.

Helpful? Yes

C
Corey Cruz - United Kingdom
05 April

This moment felt truly magical, as if time stood still. You become completely immersed in the group of performers who turn this ceremony into something truly memorable. I can’t recommend it enough.

Helpful? Yes

A
Angelique Beard - Spain
01 April

The video did a great job explaining everything, but adding translations in more languages or even a Turkish voiceover with English or Spanish subtitles would make it even better. It was a truly mystical experience.

Helpful? Yes

D
Dean Boyer - United States of America
29 March

This is a truly one of a kind performance. Before the main show, there's an informative exhibition that gives you deeper insight into the meaning behind the dance. A wonderful way to appreciate the art form.

Helpful? Yes

J
James Callahan - United States of America
27 March

The experience wasn't quite what I had imagined, and while it wasn't my personal favorite, I can certainly understand its widespread appeal. If you're curious about it, I'd still recommend giving it a try.

Helpful? Yes

L
Lina Bergström - Sweden
24 March

This performance offers a nice introduction to the culture, though some might find the repetitive nature of the dance and music a bit monotonous after a while.

Helpful? Yes

M
Mateo Rossi - Italy
20 March

We realized this was more about witnessing a sacred tradition than attending a typical entertainment show. While fascinating, those expecting a performance might want to adjust their expectations.

Helpful? Yes

L
Lester Krause - Switzerland
18 March

This was truly an incredible experience that left a lasting impression. The authenticity and cultural depth made it something truly special.

Helpful? Yes

J
Janna Reeves - United Kingdom
15 March

This experience provided a meaningful glimpse into the spiritual traditions of Islam. I was deeply touched by the profound beauty and devotion on display.

Helpful? Yes

I
Isabella Fernández - Spain
10 March

Absolutely breathtaking and masterfully executed I couldn't recommend this experience more highly. The artistry and precision left me in awe.

Helpful? Yes

O
Oliver Schmidt - Germany
08 March

Excellent value for the experience offered! You truly feel immersed in an authentic cultural and spiritual tradition that's both meaningful and memorable.

Helpful? Yes

L
Lesa Hurst - France
05 March

While undeniably beautiful, this program has a distinctive character that may not appeal to all tastes. It offers a unique perspective that some will find deeply meaningful, while others might not connect with it as strongly.

Helpful? Yes

D
Daniel Petrovic - Russia
02 March

The performance and accompanying exhibition were truly remarkable. However, we had significant trouble locating the venue Google Maps mistakenly routed us to a private residence behind a parking area before we found the correct location.

Helpful? Yes

E
Elena Vasquez - Spain
28 February

This was a truly enchanting experience, complemented by an equally fascinating museum that provided deep insight into the ritual's significance. Together, they created a profoundly meaningful cultural encounter.

Helpful? Yes

N
Nathaniel Cho - Singapore
26 February

While there wasn't a live guide, we found the informational displays in the entrance area provided all the context we needed to appreciate the experience fully.

Helpful? Yes

W
Wendell Ward - United Kingdom
24 February

The event ran precisely on schedule, and the seating arrangement offered excellent views from every angle in the venue.

Helpful? Yes

R
Rachael Fuentes - Canada
20 February

This offered an authentic spiritual encounter refreshingly free from commercial tourism elements. The production was masterfully presented, and the exhibition provided perfectly balanced context. Without question, this is an essential experience for visitors.

Helpful? Yes

C
Claire Fontaine - France
18 February

An utterly breathtaking performance that left me completely mesmerized! The artistry and execution were nothing short of extraordinary.

Helpful? Yes

L
Lars Johansson - Sweden
15 February

While the ticket price felt somewhat steep, the cultural immersion proved entirely worthwhile. The traditional Turkish music alone was captivating, and watching the dervish perform was profoundly moving.

Helpful? Yes

V
Velma Mack - Argentina
12 February

A wonderful immersion into local traditions, enhanced by the stunning surroundings that perfectly complemented the cultural significance of the event.

Helpful? Yes

A
Amir Khan - Egypt
10 February

A well crafted event that was both delightful and enlightening. It offers a deep dive into the world of Rumi and Sufism, showcasing a beautiful aspect of Turkey's rich cultural heritage.

Helpful? Yes

M
Melisa Lang - Australia
05 February

This was an exceptionally impressive performance that I thoroughly enjoyed. I can wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking an authentic cultural experience.

Helpful? Yes

E
Elwood Davis - United Kingdom
01 February

This deeply spiritual encounter transported us through its mesmerizing music, enlightening narration, and the dervishes' hypnotic movements. We were particularly fascinated to observe the parallels between Sufi traditions and Buddhist meditation practices.

Helpful? Yes

G
Gabriela Silva - Brazil
28 January

The Whirling Dervishes' performance transcended mere spectacle it became a sacred prayer and profound meditation, guiding me toward deeper self reflection. This transformative experience unveiled new spiritual dimensions I hadn't encountered before.

Helpful? Yes

L
Leila Nazari - Australia
23 January

When you truly understand the spiritual significance behind the movements, the experience transforms into something extraordinary far more than just a performance, it becomes a transcendent, almost magical encounter.

Helpful? Yes

C
Carey Franklin - Singapore
20 January

This polished production delivers a thoroughly professional experience, enhanced by comprehensive background materials that deepen your understanding of the tradition.

Helpful? Yes

C
Cordell Klein - United Kingdom
17 January

This profound spiritual encounter carries deep religious significance in its historical context, yet its universal message resonates powerfully across all faith traditions.

Helpful? Yes

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