Sarıhan Caravanserai
Sarıhan Kervansarayı
A 13th-century Seljuk caravanserai on the outskirts of Avanos. In the vaulted hall in the evening, authentic Sufi sema whirling dance ceremonies are performed.
Sarıhan was built in 1249 as a Seljuk caravanserai (kervansaray) on the Silk Road. It has the typical marble-carved gateway, an open courtyard and a vaulted hall, all built of pale yellow tuff, which is where the name 'yellow inn' comes from. After restoration, the Mevlevi order's sema whirling ceremony is held in the hall in the evening. It lasts about an hour, and the atmosphere is solemn. Photography and applause are prohibited during the performance, but there is a brief photo window afterward. Tickets cost about €25-35 and include hotel transfers. Book through your hotel or a travel agency. The building can also be visited during the day. It lies about 6 km east of Avanos, about 20 minutes by car from Göreme.
Opening hours
Daytime visits; evening whirling dance shows approx. 18:00 and 21:00 (seasonal schedule)
Nearby sights
- Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
- Zelve Open-Air Museum
- Avanos
- Paşabağ (Monks Valley)
- Üç Güzeller (Three Beauties)
- Çavuşin
- Ürgüp
- Rose Valley / Red Valley