The Cennet and Cehennem Caves, meaning 'Heaven' and 'Hell' in Turkish, are two distinct and awe-inspiring sinkholes located near Kizkalesi. These natural wonders are not just geological marvels but also hold historical significance, with ancient ruins nestled within the 'Heaven' chasm. The site offers a unique blend of natural beauty, a glimpse into ancient civilizations, and a moderately challenging physical experience.
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural scenery and the unique experience of descending into the 'Heaven' cave. Many highlight the cooler temperatures inside, a welcome respite during hot summer months, and the ancient church ruins found at the bottom. The 'Hell' cave, while inaccessible for descent, is admired for its dramatic views from the glass viewing platform. Reviewers frequently recommend purchasing a Museum Card if planning to visit multiple sites managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, as it can be more cost-effective. The modern facilities, including clean restrooms and a souvenir shop, also receive positive mentions.
For the 'Heaven' cave, be prepared for a significant descent and ascent, involving over 450-500 steps. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential due to often wet and slippery surfaces, especially deeper inside the cave. Bringing plenty of water is crucial, as cafes on-site can be expensive, and the climb back up is strenuous. Visitors suggest allocating 1-2 hours for the 'Heaven' cave and a shorter time for the 'Hell' viewing platform. The best time to visit is during cooler months or early mornings/late afternoons in summer to avoid extreme heat. Some reviewers note that the elevator for 'Heaven' is only for ascending, not descending, which can be confusing.
The caves are located approximately 21 km from Silifke town center, near Kizkalesi. While specific public transport details are not widely mentioned in reviews, visitors often arrive by car or as part of organized tours. There is a free parking area outside the main entrance, though some older reviews mention a small fee. The site is well-signposted as "Cennet Cehennem Mağarası" off the main highway.
A common complaint revolves around the confusing access to the 'Hell' cave after visiting 'Heaven,' with some visitors being refused re-entry or finding it poorly signposted that 'Hell' should be visited first. To mitigate this, it is advisable to visit the 'Hell' viewing platform first, which is a short, easy walk, before embarking on the descent into 'Heaven.' Another point of frustration for some visitors with mobility issues is the limited accessibility; while staff are helpful, the site is not entirely wheelchair-friendly, especially the 'Heaven' cave. The path to the 'Heaven' cave can be very slippery and dangerous, particularly for untrained individuals or children, so extreme caution is advised.
