Whirling Dervish Ceremony Tickets in Istanbul: Experience Sufi Rituals and Classic Music
3.9
19 Ratings
Fatih
Experience the mesmerizing Whirling Dervish Ceremony in Istanbul, featuring Sufi rituals and classic music. Immerse yourself in the poetic beauty of the Sema, a spiritual journey of love and connection to the universe.
Duration: 1 hour
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Kızlarağa Medresesi - We cordially invite you to experience the sublime prayer of the dervish and explore the mystical aspect of Istanbul in an ancient educational institution’s courtyard, adorned with authentic architecture.

Embark on this enigmatic excursion at a site that mirrors Istanbul’s historical essence from the Ottoman Empire’s classical era!

Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Istanbul as you observe the Sufi Dervishes’ ceremony in the core of the ancient city!

Gain insights into the Mevlevi Order, an age-old tradition of the disciples of Rumi, the renowned medieval poet from Konya!

What's Included
  • Tea and coffee
  • A small info booklet about Sufis, Rumi and Dervishes
  • All fees and/or taxes
Additional Information

The central aspect of this unique observance is its lyrical nature. The term “Sema” carries dual interpretations, referring to both the heavens and the act of listening. The spinning dervishes extend their arms upward in their dance, seeking to comprehend the cosmos, its origins, and its dynamics. Such motion is the path to attaining human maturity in an exhilarating instant filled with affection.
With regard to the act itself, the quintessential Sufi melodies play a pivotal role. They prepare the ambiance, enabling you to sense the deep-seated emotions that precede the commencement of the practice. Subsequently, the whirling dervishes step forth to dissolve the barrier separating the physical and the spiritual realms.
While it has not always occupied a conventional niche, the Mevlevi Brotherhood figures prominently in this urban sanctuary of diversity. Typically, the enlightened and urbane segments of the populace, including at times the Sovereigns, have held the Sufi tradition in high esteem.

Location
Kızlarağa Medresesi
Hoca Rüstem Sokak
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
3.9
(19 Ratings)
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Maja_s
Apr 6, 2024
Nice! - There was a lot of playing, less dancing. All in all, it was nice to see traditional dance.The place is nice too and it is not crowded.
Review provided by Viator
Raj
Mar 2, 2024
Whirling Dervish - It was a good experience. Something i wanted to see for many years. They should have explained that this is a spiritual thing and not a dance which most people would think.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ceraselat2019
Sep 19, 2023
Unforgettable - A magical show. It's the second time and I would definitely see it again. I recommend every traveler not to miss it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Colt_t
Apr 8, 2024
How do they not get dizzy - Super impressive performance but missing 5 stars as we waited a good 40 minutes for the show to start. It was a bit awkward, would have been good to know what was going on
Review provided by Viator
362isabeller
Nov 28, 2023
It's really worth the detour. Reserve! - A very interesting evening. I didn't feel any tourist trap... the dances, music and songs were authentic
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Claire_p
Oct 16, 2023
Atmospheric experience - Very atmospheric altho there were only three dervishes (none in red as pictured). Go early as some seats are way better than others and the organisation is a little chaotic!
Review provided by Viator
Jason_s
Aug 23, 2023
Highly recommend it! - I loved the live music and the dancers. I just wish the lights were more dim for ambience. But overall it was a must see experience.
Review provided by Viator
Roman_h
Jul 5, 2023
Memorable - Everyone in the staff was super friendly. It is a good time for the family. The dancers look very passionate.
Review provided by Viator
Oliviersfour
Mar 31, 2024
Sham!!! Stay away. - Show was oversold three fold. People could not even get in to stand. People complaining were told to return at 20:0” for a second show. Staff were dismissive and rude. Managed to get my money back after threatening to call the tourist police. People of other nationalities were patronised and belittled. Stay away!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Alina_b
Jan 3, 2023
Very boring. The same... - Very boring. The same melody and the same moves one our long. I wouldn't recommend it even for half price.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
May 2024
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