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Whirling Dervishes Ceremony & Exhibition at Hodjapasha

Istanbul, Turkey1 hourGuided in English

Watch the Sema, the whirling ceremony of the Mevlevi order, in a restored Ottoman bathhouse. A calm, moving hour with a small exhibition and a welcome drink.

1 hourExplore at your own pace
Shared hallKeeps the experience personal
EnglishLive guide or host
CancellationNon-refundable: tickets are issued for your chosen date and time

Highlights

  • Sema whirling ceremony with live music
  • Setting in a restored Ottoman hammam
  • Exhibition on the Mevlevi tradition
  • Welcome drink
  • Central location near Sirkeci

Full description

The Sema is a spiritual ceremony in which dervishes turn slowly in white robes to live Sufi music. At Hodjapasha it takes place in the domed hall of a 15th-century hammam, with seating on all sides of the circular floor.

Before the performance you can look around a small exhibition about the Mevlevi tradition and have a welcome drink. The ceremony itself lasts about an hour and is performed with care, so it feels more contemplative than theatrical.

Itinerary

  1. Arrival

    Arrive before the start, enjoy your drink and see the exhibition.

  2. The Sema

    Take your seat and watch the whirling ceremony.

Included

  • Ceremony ticket with seating
  • Entry to the exhibition
  • Welcome drink (usually tea or a soft drink)
  • Live Sufi music during the ceremony

Not included

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Food
  • Photography during the ceremony (not permitted)

Meeting point

Hodjapasha Cultural Center, Sirkeci; exact address in your confirmation.The exact spot and your host's details arrive with your confirmation.

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Know before you go

  • Photography and video are not allowed during the ceremony.
  • Latecomers may not be admitted once the ceremony has started.
  • The ceremony is not recommended for very young children, as silence is expected.
  • Performance days and times vary by season.

Frequently asked questions

Is this a religious ceremony?

It follows the Mevlevi ritual and is performed respectfully, so treat it as a ceremony rather than a show.

Where should I sit?

Seats are on all sides of the floor and all have a good view.

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