The world's second-largest canyon hosted 600,000 visitors in 2023
Ihlara Valley, located in Aksaray, known as the gateway to Cappadocia and the world's second-largest canyon, hosted 600,000 local and foreign tourists in 2023. Aksaray, hosting various civilizations with its historical and cultural heritage, sees an increasing number of visitors to Ihlara Valley each year. Ihlara Valley, the world's second-largest canyon valley, and its 382-step staircase descending over 14 kilometers, attract attention not only for its natural beauty but also for the hundreds of plants and creatures it harbors. Formed by the lava eruptions from Mount Hasan, the natural canyon valley of Ihlara houses 105 churches and approximately 10,000 caves. With the Melendiz Stream flowing through it, Ihlara Valley, which encompasses all natural beauties, continues to be a focal point for domestic and foreign tourists, with 600,000 people visiting the valley in 2023.