Cleopatra’s Neighbour – A Cool Grotto by the Turkish Coast – Damlataş Cave
Damlataş Cave is a natural wonder located west of Alanya city center, Turkey, very close to Cleopatra Beach.
In 1948, construction workers were blasting stone in the area west of Alanya city center, close to Cleopatra Beach. During their blasting activities, they unknowingly broke through the cave entrance, revealing the hidden wonder beneath. This unexpected discovery turned what could have been quarried rock into a popular tourist destination.
The cave is famous for its constant temperature of 22°C (72°F) and high humidity, which is around 95%. These qualities make Damlataş Cave a natural asthma treatment center. People with respiratory problems often visit the cave to breathe in the air, which is believed to have beneficial effects.
The cave itself is not very large, with a total length of about 50 meters, 15 meters high, and 13–14 meters wide. However, its small size doesn’t diminish its beauty. The cave is adorned with stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites rising from the floor, both in various shapes and sizes. These natural formations, called speleothems, are created by the continuous dripping of mineral-rich water over thousands of years.
Damlataş Cave is known for its affordability, making it a great budget-friendly option for tourists. Here’s what you can expect for tickets and prices:
- Admission Fee: There’s a small entrance fee to visit the cave. The exact price can vary slightly depending on the season and exchange rates, but it typically falls around 30 Turkish Lira (TRY) which is roughly equivalent to 5-8 USD (as of May 10, 2024).
- Additional Costs: There are usually no additional costs associated with visiting Damlataş Cave. It’s a self-guided tour, so you won’t need to pay for a guide. There might be a small selection of souvenirs available for purchase outside the cave entrance, but that’s entirely optional.
Damlataş Cave caters to tourists with convenient opening hours throughout the year.
- Summer Season (April 1 – October 31): During the warmer months, the cave is open extended hours to accommodate tourist influx. You can visit Damlataş Cave any day of the week from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Winter Season (November 1 – March 31): The opening hours are slightly shorter during the winter season. The cave remains open every day, but with timings from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Getting to Damlataş Cave (Damlataş Mağarası) is a breeze! Here are a few options depending on your preference:
On Foot – this is the easiest and most scenic option if you’re staying near Cleopatra Beach. Damlataş Cave is located west of the city center, very close to the beach. The walk should take around 5-10 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
By Bus – public transportation is another convenient way to reach the cave. Take bus number 1 heading towards the Alanya center (Alanya Merkez). Look out for the “Damlataş Plajı” (Damlataş Beach) stop and get off there. The cave is a short walk from the bus stop, just follow the signs or ask a local for directions.
By Taxi – taxis are readily available in Alanya, and this might be the most convenient option if you have luggage or prefer a direct ride. Simply tell the taxi driver you’d like to go to Damlataş Cave (Damlataş Mağarası) and they should be familiar with the location.
A hidden gem discovered by chance, Damlataş Cave offers a unique respite from the bustle of Alanya. With its constant, cool temperatures and refreshing atmosphere, it’s no wonder the cave is a natural asthmsa treatment center. Whether you’re seeking a break from the sun or a glimpse into the wonders beneath the surface, Damlataş Cave promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
