A spectacular stalactite and stalagmite cave discovered in 1948 near Alanya's famous Cleopatra Beach. The cave's humid air with high CO2 and radon content has historically been used for treating asthma. The natural formations took over 15,000 years to form.
Damlataş Cave, discovered accidentally in 1948 during quarrying operations beside Alanya's Cleopatra Beach, is a natural limestone cavern notable for its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations and for its unusual microclimate. The interior of the cave maintains a constant temperature of approximately 22 degrees Celsius with humidity between 90 and 98 percent and elevated levels of carbon dioxide and radon gas, conditions that have long been associated with therapeutic effects on respiratory conditions, particularly asthma. Local physicians in the mid-20th century documented cases of asthma patients who reported improvement after extended morning sessions in the cave, and the cave became informally known as a therapeutic destination for respiratory sufferers. A designated morning session for asthma patients exists separately from general visiting hours. The cave's principal visual attraction is the stalactite and stalagmite formations, which took over 15,000 years to develop and are illuminated with colored lighting to emphasize their shapes. The formations include stalactites hanging from a ceiling approximately eight meters high, stalagmites rising from the cave floor, and a central column formed where the two have joined. A narrow pathway winds through the main chamber. The cave is located directly at the foot of the Alanya peninsula, adjacent to the western entrance to Cleopatra Beach, making it easy to combine with a beach visit. The size of the cave means a full visit takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Good to know
- Hours
- 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Best time
- afternoon
- Best for
- families, nature lovers, curious travelers
Location
Damlataş Mağarası, Alanya, Antalya
36.5415, 31.9991 View on map
Highlights
- Stalactite and stalagmite formations over 15,000 years old illuminated with colored lighting
- Constant microclimate of 22°C and 90-98% humidity noted for therapeutic effects on respiratory conditions
- Adjacent to Cleopatra Beach at the base of Alanya's castle peninsula for easy combination
- Dedicated morning therapeutic sessions for asthma and respiratory patients
- Discovered in 1948 during quarrying, one of Turkey's more recently found show caves
Tips for visiting
- Combine with Cleopatra Beach visit
- Cool inside, good for hot days
- Asthma sufferers come for morning cure sessions
When to visit
Afternoon visits are ideal as the cave provides natural cool relief from peak summer heat. The adjacent Cleopatra Beach is best visited in the morning, making an afternoon cave visit a natural pairing. The cave is most atmospheric outside the busiest midday period.
Accessibility
Damlataş Cave has a paved entrance path and the main cave chamber is navigable by most visitors. Some sections involve low overhead clearance and the high humidity makes the floor slippery. Wheelchair access into the main cave is limited due to the narrow pathway and cave entrance dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
Can visiting Damlataş Cave help with asthma?
Local tradition and early medical observations suggested the cave's elevated CO2, humidity, and radon microclimate provided short-term relief for asthma sufferers. Morning sessions designated for therapeutic purposes still operate. Visitors with respiratory conditions should consult their physician before extended cave exposure.
How long does a visit to Damlataş Cave take?
The cave is relatively compact and a full visit through the main chamber takes 30 to 45 minutes. It pairs naturally with a visit to adjacent Cleopatra Beach.
Is the cave suitable for children?
Yes, children generally find the stalactite formations and colored lighting engaging. The cave is cool and humid, which can be a welcome contrast to summer beach heat. The path is narrow and supervision of young children is recommended.