
Eshab-ı Kehf Cave Tarsus
Discover Eshab-ı Kehf Cave, a sacred site in Tarsus linked to the legend of the Seven Sleepers, offering history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Eshab-ı Kehf Cave Tarsus
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Eshab-ı Kehf Cave, a sacred site in Tarsus linked to the legend of the Seven Sleepers, offering history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
"A place of historical significance and spiritual resonance, Eshab-ı Kehf Cave offers a unique glimpse into ancient legends."

Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy the historical and spiritual significance of Eshab-ı Kehf Cave without any entry fee. 🎟️
Local Produce Delights 🍇
During summer, find fresh local produce like grapes. A delightful treat to purchase and enjoy! :shopping_cart:

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 9,087 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cave of the Seven Sleepers
The main cave
Step into the legendary cave where the Seven Sleepers are said to have slept for 309 years, a tale echoed in religious texts.

Spiritual Reflection
Mosque and surrounding prayer areas
Experience the tranquil ambiance of the mosque and designated areas, often used for prayer and quiet contemplation.

Picnic Spots in Nature
Designated picnic areas
Enjoy a peaceful family gathering or picnic amidst nature, with prepared tables offering a relaxing outdoor experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Journey Through Time and Faith
Practicalities for a Peaceful Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy the historical and spiritual significance of Eshab-ı Kehf Cave without any entry fee. 🎟️
Local Produce Delights 🍇
During summer, find fresh local produce like grapes. A delightful treat to purchase and enjoy! :shopping_cart:
Respectful Attire Recommended
As a place of worship, modest dress is appreciated by visitors and locals. 🙏
Picnic Paradise 🧺
Organized picnic areas with tables make it ideal for family outings and relaxed meals in nature. :picnic_table:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy the historical and spiritual significance of Eshab-ı Kehf Cave without any entry fee. 🎟️
Local Produce Delights 🍇
During summer, find fresh local produce like grapes. A delightful treat to purchase and enjoy! :shopping_cart:
Respectful Attire Recommended
As a place of worship, modest dress is appreciated by visitors and locals. 🙏
Picnic Paradise 🧺
Organized picnic areas with tables make it ideal for family outings and relaxed meals in nature. :picnic_table:
Consider Claustrophobia
If you're prone to claustrophobia, be mindful of the cave's enclosed spaces. ⚠️
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Eshab-ı Kehf Cave is appreciated for its historical significance and free entry, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and family picnics. While some find the cave itself unremarkable, its spiritual resonance and natural setting are highlighted as major draws. Visitors also enjoy the opportunity to purchase local produce during summer.
"If you like historical places and mysterious stories, you would like this place. It is easily accessible from the highway. It is free, no booking or ticket is required. While you are there, if it is summer months, you may come across local fresh produces, especially grapes 🍇 i would highly suggest purchasing some grapes."
Onder “Gokie” Gok
"If you are around, it worth visiting.
Eshabi kehf were a a group of youth that ran away from being torchered in 1st century. They ran into this cave (it is claimed).
The governer commanded to close the cave entrance by putting a wall and leave them to die.
But they slept for 157 years with their dog and then came out from the cave alive!🤪
.
Entrance is free of charge.
Local people come to this place for praying.
It's kind if interesting.
🙂"
Pooya Masoudi
"You can visit the cave for free
I don’t recommend visiting the cave only because it is not a must visit, nothing special. The place was crowded and it smelled very bad.
However, for family gatherings or picnics the place is very peaceful and organized. There is prepared tables for picnics in nature.
You can also enter the mosque, toilets and places for woudoue are available"
RAFIK رفيق
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Eshab-ı Kehf Cave is easily accessible from the highway near Tarsus. Many visitors opt for private vehicles or taxis for direct access. Public transport options might require further local connections, so checking local bus routes or ride-sharing services is advisable for a smooth journey.
Yes, the cave is generally well-signposted and located conveniently close to the main road, making it straightforward to locate for most visitors.
For convenience, driving or taking a taxi is recommended. This allows for flexibility and direct access to the site.
Parking is typically available for visitors, especially for those arriving by car. It's advisable to arrive earlier during peak times to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Eshab-ı Kehf Cave is a popular day trip destination from Mersin, offering a glimpse into history and spirituality within a short travel time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Eshab-ı Kehf Cave is completely free of charge. You can explore the site without needing any admission tickets.
The cave is generally accessible throughout the day, though specific hours for the mosque facilities might vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours for exploration.
There is no booking or reservation required to visit Eshab-ı Kehf Cave. Visitors can arrive and explore at their leisure.
Yes, it is a significant religious site for many, with a mosque available for prayer and reflection. Local people often visit for spiritual purposes.
While generally open, visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the site's religious significance and natural environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cave is famously associated with the legend of the Seven Sleepers, young men who fled persecution for their faith and slept for 309 years within the cave, a story mentioned in the Quran's Surah Al-Kahf.
Inside, you can explore the cave itself, which is believed to be the ancient refuge of the Seven Sleepers. The site also includes a mosque and areas for reflection.
Access within the cave might be challenging due to its natural terrain. However, the surrounding areas and mosque are generally more accessible.
Photography is generally permitted in the outdoor areas and mosque. Be mindful of any posted signs or local customs regarding photography inside the cave itself.
The atmosphere is often described as peaceful and spiritual, especially for those interested in its historical and religious significance. Some visitors note it can be crowded at times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be limited options directly at the cave site, Tarsus city center offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving local cuisine.
Yes, the site has organized picnic areas with tables, making it a great spot for a family meal amidst nature.
Tarsus is known for its delicious cuisine. Don't miss trying local specialties and fresh produce, especially grapes if you visit in summer.
The picnic areas are set up for you to bring your own food. There are prepared tables, but no cooking facilities are typically provided.
You might find some local vendors selling snacks or drinks, particularly during busier seasons. It's always a good idea to bring your own water and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The cave entrance, the mosque, and the surrounding natural landscape offer great photographic opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow inside the cave can also be striking.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in the vicinity.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful lighting, creating a warm glow on the landscape. Early mornings can offer a more serene and less crowded photographic experience.
Be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially within the mosque or during prayer times.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the cave's expanse and surrounding scenery. A standard zoom lens will cover most other shots.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit