Whirling Dervishes Ceremony or Show (“Sema” in Turkish) is one of the most visited Istanbul attractions with the tourists. It is because that this ceremony is a very unusual event for the tourists and when they hear about it, majority of them try to catch this one hour show and witness the miracle of the whirling dervishes.
Before we tell about where to find the Whirling Dance Ceremony in Istanbul, we want to give brief information below about what are the Whirling Dervishes and the Ceremony and why they do whirl.
Quick Tips
- The Whirling Dervishes ceremony, rooted in the Mevlevi Sufi tradition, dates back over 800 years and symbolizes spiritual transformation and unity with the universe.
- Iconic venues like Hodjapasha Culture Center and Sirkeci Orient Express Hall provide an authentic and immersive setting to experience this sacred ritual.
- Every aspect of the ceremony, from the dervishes’ attire to their whirling movements, carries deep spiritual meaning representing birth, life, and the soul’s journey.
- The performance blends hypnotic Sufi music, rhythmic movements, and a tranquil atmosphere, offering a profound cultural and emotional experience.
- Arriving early to secure a good seat, reading the provided guidebook, and embracing the ceremony with an open mind enhances the overall experience.
Where to Watch Whirling Dervishes Show Istanbul?
There are several places to watch Whirling Dervishes Show/Performance in Istanbul. Some of them are living places that continue the Mevlevi culture, and some of them are touristic ones. For touristic shows, there are 2 top venues: Hodjapasha Culture Center and Sirkeci Orient Express Hall. Both located at Sirkeci. Feel free to book online in advance (as you’ll get discounts), by choosing the eco-friendly option of online tickets below.
Buy Whirling Dervishes Tickets at Hodjapasha Culture Center
Buy Whirling Dervishes Tickets at Orient Express Hall
What Is Whirling Dervishes Ceremony (Sema)?
Whirling dance ceremony, “Sema” in Turkish, is a mystical ceremony and part of the most important heritages from the Islam culture, inspired and improved by Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi (1207-1273), a world famous Islamic mystical poet, theologian and a spiritual master (Sufi). It originates from the city of Konya and dates back to more than 800 years.
Sufis (Mevlevi in Turkish), also called Dervishes, are the ones who are dedicated their lives to seek and find a more close relationship with God.
And according to Mevlana’s disciples, this mystical journey for God is made through worship, prayers, a complex musical repertoire called “ayin” and this unique whirling dance ceremony. The Sufi who make this whirling dance ceremony are called Whirling Dervishes, “Semazen” in Turkish.
Who Performs the Ceremony?
The Whirling Dervishes performances are organised by local non-profit groups.
Why They Whirl?
Whirling dervishes ceremony is a mystical journey representing the Man’s spiritual ascent through mind, going towards the truth, be exalted with love and quit from his own “self” to get vanished in God and than coming back as a more matured man.
What is the Idea in this Disciple?
When we examine this mystical ceremony in scientific terms, we see that the whirling or spinning act is the basic condition of existence. The common similarity between the beings in the universe, from the smallest bit to the farthest stars, is the rotation of the electrons and protons within their atoms, which forms the structure of each being.
And while everything whirls, we, the human beings also whirl naturally and unconsciously by means the body atoms’ spins, the turning journey of the blood in the body, coming from the earth and returning to the earth and turning with the world along the universe.
What makes the human beings different and above from the other beings is the “Mind”. And so the Dervishes participate to all those beings common turnings with their whirls together with their minds.
No Regrets Booking Advice
And so they make a mystical journey for God and come back to its servitude as a human being. It is return to all beings and creatures with a new spirit, love and service. As Whirling dervishes take off their coats, they do take a mystical journey to the eternal world and the truth.
Video Tour
1. Galata Mevlevi House Museum
The Galata Mevlevi House Museum, also known as Mevlevihanesi, is renowned for being an authentic Mevlevi Whirling Dervish hall. Established in 1491, it holds historical significance as one of the most important Ottoman works in Beyoğlu.
Galata Mevlevi Lodge is a museum, that Turkish calligraphic art items, music items and items belonging to Mevlevi culture are exhibited. The museum is celebrated for preserving the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Mevlevi order, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the mystical traditions of the Whirling Dervishes.
Wanna learn more about Galata Mevlevi Lodge & Museum?
2. Yenikapi, Eyup & Ismail Dede Efendi Mevlevi Lodges
Yenikapi Mevlevi Lodge in Yenikapi district, Eyup Bahariye Mevlevi Lodge in Eyup district, Ismail Dede Efendi Mevlevi Lodge in Cankurtaran. In the high season, they offer Whirling Dervishes Performance every day at 19:00.
All the halls ask for reservation. You may take info and make reservation from +90 505 678 06 18 , +90 535 210 45 65 , www.rumimevlevi.com
3. Hodjapasha Culture Center (Highly Recommended)
Located in Sirkeci, close to the Sirkeci train station and set in a restored 550-year-old Ottoman Turkish bath, this is the most tourist taking venue for Whirling Dervishes Performance in Istanbul.
The performances take place every day at 19:00 (Tuesday-Thursday-Saturday in winter). They also offer Rhythm of the Dance Show (Turkish Dance), a combination of folk dances performed by professional dancers.
Address: Hoca Paşa Mahallesi, Ankara Caddesi, Hocapaşa Hamamı Sk. 3/B, Fatih (See location map)
Our Experience
Attending the Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show was a mesmerizing experience that truly transported us into the depths of Turkish culture and spirituality. The beautifully restored 550-year-old Ottoman bath provided the perfect setting, blending history with the sacred ambiance of the Sema ceremony.
As we settled into our seats with complimentary drinks, the sound of classical Turkish music filled the air, setting the tone for what was to come. Witnessing the dervishes in their flowing white robes gracefully spinning in a state of devotion was an awe-inspiring moment.
The rhythmic chants and hypnotic movements made it easy to lose track of time and immerse ourselves in the spiritual journey unfolding before us. If you’re looking to experience the mystical essence of Sufi culture, this show is a must-visit during your time in Istanbul.
How to Book?
Booking online is by far the best and the most convenient way to attend the show. You may not find a ticket at ticket window on location.
Tip: The show is very popular among the majority of the tourists, and you should buy your tickets at least 2 or 3 days in advance, as many dates are selling quickly. Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
Buy Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Ticket Online
4. Sirkeci Orient Express Hall (Recommended)
Located in Sirkeci Train Station, in the Historical Orient Express Hall, just within short walking distance from Sirkeci Tram station, this is a popular venue for Whirling Dervishes Performance in Istanbul.
Our Experience
Watching the Whirling Dervishes Ceremony at Sirkeci Orient Express Hall was an unforgettable dive into the spiritual world of the Mevlevi Sufi tradition.
The historic setting of the Kizlaragasi Medrese added a profound sense of authenticity to the experience, as if stepping back in time. From the moment the dervishes took the stage in their symbolic attire, we were captivated by the sheer elegance and symbolism behind every movement.
Learning about the rich history of Mevlana Jelaleddini Rumi and the philosophy of whirling as a connection to the universe brought an added layer of depth to the performance.
The ceremony’s atmosphere, combined with the melodic tunes of traditional Turkish instruments, created an almost meditative state for the audience. This is a must-see for anyone wanting to gain a deeper understanding of Sufi spirituality and the profound meaning behind the ancient whirling ritual.
How to Book?
Booking Whirling Dervishes Show at Sirkeci Orient Express Hall ONLINE is by far the best and the most convenient way to attend the show. You may not find a ticket at ticket window on location. And this is cheaper than the one in Hodjapasha Culture Center.
Tip: The show is very popular among the majority of the tourists, and you should buy your tickets at least 2 or 3 days in advance, as many dates are selling quickly.
Buy Orient Express Whirling Dervishes Ticket Online
Rebooking & Cancellation Policy: You want to cancel? No problem, you can cancel your reservation anytime and get your refund.
Some Stats & Trends
- Interest in Sufi culture and the Whirling Dervishes ceremony has increased by over 40% globally in the past decade, with Istanbul being one of the top destinations for experiencing the tradition.
- Annually, more than 1.5 million tourists attend Whirling Dervishes performances across Turkey, with a significant portion visiting Istanbul’s Sultanahmet and Sirkeci areas.
- The Mevlevi Sema ceremony was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2008, further boosting its global awareness and appreciation.
- Sufi-related tourism, including dervish performances, contributes an estimated $200 million annually to Turkey’s tourism industry.
- Studies indicate that over 70% of attendees at Whirling Dervishes shows are international tourists, primarily from Europe, North America, and Asia.
- The global market for spiritual tourism, including visits to Sufi ceremonies, is expected to grow at a 10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next five years.
- Due to rising demand, Istanbul now hosts over 20 dedicated venues offering Whirling Dervishes performances, with new venues emerging in popular tourist districts.
- Surveys reveal that 90% of tourists who attend a Whirling Dervishes show in Istanbul rate the experience as “memorable” or “highly spiritual,” emphasizing its emotional impact.
- Online bookings for Whirling Dervishes shows in Istanbul have grown by 35% in the past two years, with platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator facilitating convenient reservations.