
Kangal Fish Spring Balıklı Kaplıca
Unique thermal spring in Sivas, Turkey, famous for Garra rufa fish that treat skin conditions like psoriasis.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Kangal Fish Spring Balıklı Kaplıca
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Unique thermal spring in Sivas, Turkey, famous for Garra rufa fish that treat skin conditions like psoriasis.
"For years I searched for a cure for psoriasis with no outcome until i came here. Withing three weeks i was cured."

Confirm Pricing Policies
Prices can vary significantly based on whether you declare a skin condition. Clarify this upfront to avoid surprises . :moneybag:
Be Prepared for Road Conditions
The roads leading to the spring can be rough. Drive carefully or consider alternative transport if your vehicle is sensitive . :car:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Healing Waters
Main thermal pools
Immerse yourself in 37°C (98.6°F) selenium-rich waters, teeming with Garra rufa fish that gently exfoliate your skin.

Doctor Fish Therapy
Within the pools
Experience the unique sensation of 'doctor fish' nibbling away dead skin, a natural treatment sought by many for skin ailments.

Relaxing Resort Atmosphere
Hotel grounds
Enjoy comfortable rooms and a laid-back atmosphere at the resort, complemented by a restaurant and cafe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the 'Doctor Fish' Treatment
Bookings & Road Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Pricing Policies
Prices can vary significantly based on whether you declare a skin condition. Clarify this upfront to avoid surprises. :moneybag:
Be Prepared for Road Conditions
The roads leading to the spring can be rough. Drive carefully or consider alternative transport if your vehicle is sensitive. :car:
Book Accommodation in Advance
Especially during peak season, securing your room at the resort is recommended to ensure availability.
Bring Your Own Tea
One guest enjoyed the tea but wished for a kettle in their room for convenience. :tea:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Pricing Policies
Prices can vary significantly based on whether you declare a skin condition. Clarify this upfront to avoid surprises. :moneybag:
Be Prepared for Road Conditions
The roads leading to the spring can be rough. Drive carefully or consider alternative transport if your vehicle is sensitive. :car:
Book Accommodation in Advance
Especially during peak season, securing your room at the resort is recommended to ensure availability.
Bring Your Own Tea
One guest enjoyed the tea but wished for a kettle in their room for convenience. :tea:
Manage Expectations
While many find relief, some visitors have expressed disappointment. Research the treatment's efficacy for your condition.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kangal Fish Spring is praised for its unique 'doctor fish' therapy and healing thermal waters, with many visitors reporting significant relief from skin conditions like psoriasis. The resort offers clean rooms and friendly staff, contributing to a positive stay for many. However, some guests have encountered issues with inconsistent pricing, poor road conditions leading to the spring, and occasional customer service problems.
"I like this place especially the hot swimming pool which was include fish (fish eat your death skin)🙏 Rooms are clean. The stuff were polite. Actually I could't drink enough tea:) I would give five stars if there was a kettle in the rooms."
Robin ÖZEL
"If you say that you have a skin disease when you enter the facility, you pay 600 Turkish liras, if you do not say it, you pay 80 Turkish liras. The employees dont have enough informations, they do not know the family name of the doctor who is said to have worked there. I suspected that the man was a doctor, I don't think he's a doctor. Prices are too expensive, the roads are so bad conditions, your car can be damaged by this road. Definitely you shouldnt go this place. A complete disappointment."
Sefa
"For years I searched for a cure for psoriasis with no outcome until i came here. Withing three weeks i was cured. Very happy with the service as well as the management who were very helpful when i had a problem. The manager Emrah was especially helpful. I highly recommend this place as a cure for psoriasis and i will happily revisit if my psoriasis ever comes back."
Serhat Kahraman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kangal Fish Spring is located in the Kangal district of Sivas, Turkey. The nearest major airport is Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport (VAS). From Sivas city center, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kangal. The final leg to the spring might require a local taxi or private car due to road conditions.
Reviews indicate that the roads leading to the spring can be in poor condition, potentially causing damage to vehicles. It's advisable to drive cautiously or inquire about local transport options.
While specific parking details are scarce, the resort likely offers parking facilities for guests. It's best to confirm with the accommodation directly.
You can reach Kangal town by intercity bus from major Turkish cities. From Kangal, local dolmuş (minibus) services or taxis are available to get closer to the spring, though direct public transport to the spring itself might be limited.
Kangal Fish Spring is approximately 100-120 kilometers (60-75 miles) southeast of Sivas city center. The journey by car typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry prices can vary. Some visitors report a significant price difference if you declare a skin condition (around 600 TL) versus not declaring it (around 80 TL). It's crucial to clarify the pricing structure upon arrival.
While not always mandatory, booking accommodation in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. For day visits, it's advisable to check if reservations are needed, particularly if you have specific treatment requirements.
Specific operating hours are not widely published. However, as it's a resort, it's likely accessible during daylight hours, with the thermal pools available for longer periods. It's best to contact the resort directly for current hours.
The 'doctor fish' treatment is typically included in the entry fee for the thermal pools. However, as noted, the pricing structure can be complex and may depend on whether you are seeking treatment for a specific skin condition.
Generally, there are no strict age restrictions for the fish spa, but it's always a good idea to consult with the facility if you have concerns about very young children or individuals with specific health conditions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The thermal waters at Kangal Fish Spring are maintained at a comfortable temperature of around 37°C (98.6°F).
The spring is home to Garra rufa fish, often referred to as 'doctor fish' or 'nibble fish', which are known for their therapeutic properties.
There's no strict time limit, but it's generally recommended to limit initial sessions to 20-30 minutes to allow your skin to adjust. You can gradually increase your time with subsequent visits.
Swimwear is required for the thermal pools. It's also advisable to bring a towel and perhaps a robe for comfort.
Photography and videography are generally allowed, as seen in many social media posts. However, be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the resort typically includes a restaurant that serves food. Guests have mentioned enjoying the food and hospitality.
The restaurant likely serves a mix of local Turkish cuisine. Specific menus can vary, but it's generally described as having nice food.
While not explicitly stated, it's usually permissible to bring personal snacks. However, for full meals, utilizing the on-site restaurant is encouraged.
Yes, the description mentions a cafe, offering a more casual option for refreshments and light snacks.
In Kangal town, you can find local eateries and cafes offering traditional Turkish dishes. These would be a short drive or taxi ride away from the spring.
📸 📸 Photography
The thermal pools with the fish are the main attraction for photos. The surrounding natural landscape and the resort's architecture also offer good photographic opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the resort management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended for capturing shots in and around the pools. Standard travel photography gear will suffice for the resort and surrounding areas.
While generally permitted, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy and ask for permission before photographing individuals closely.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples and Honeymooners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science and Anecdotes of Doctor Fish Therapy
The effectiveness of this treatment is largely anecdotal, with many testimonials praising its curative powers. One visitor reported being cured of psoriasis within three weeks of consistent treatment. However, it's important to note that scientific consensus on the efficacy of fish pedicures for serious medical conditions like psoriasis is limited. Some reviews express skepticism about the medical claims and the staff's knowledge.
When considering this therapy, it's wise to approach it with informed expectations. While the experience can be relaxing and many find it beneficial, it's advisable to consult with your dermatologist beforehand. The unique sensation of the fish nibbling is often described as ticklish and is a core part of the experience for visitors.
Navigating the Visitor Experience: From Roads to Rooms
Accommodation at the resort is described as understated but clean, with polite staff. However, one significant issue raised by guests is the inconsistency in customer service and booking policies. A particularly concerning review highlighted a discriminatory incident where a newly married couple was denied a shared room due to differing last names on their documents, leading to an appalling experience. This points to a need for clear communication and sensitive handling of guest information.
Despite these potential challenges, many guests have had positive experiences, praising the hospitality, the food, and the overall effectiveness of the treatment. The management, including a manager named Emrah, has been specifically commended for being helpful. The resort offers a relaxing atmosphere, complete with a restaurant and cafe, making it a place where visitors can unwind after their therapeutic sessions.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit