Damlatas caves offer more than just stunning stalactite formations—they provide a natural breathing treatment for thousands of asthma sufferers each year. Nestled in Turkey's Mediterranean coast, this remarkable cave contains carbon dioxide levels 10 to 12 times higher than normal air, with humidity reaching up to 95%, creating a unique microclimate believed to alleviate respiratory conditions.
When you visit Damlatas caves Alanya, you'll experience a constant temperature of 22–23°C (72–73°F) regardless of the season. This natural wonder has become so renowned for its healing properties that in 2014 alone, more than 4,000 people with respiratory problems visited the cave within just seven months. Visitors seeking the asthma cure typically stay for a 21-day treatment course, spending four hours daily breathing the mineral-rich air. According to some doctors, the extraordinary atmospheric conditions make this cave a recommended destination for asthma patients, combining natural beauty with therapeutic benefits.
The unexpected discovery of Damlataş Cave occurred in 1948 during quarrying operations for the construction of Alanya Harbor. What began as a routine mining expedition unexpectedly revealed one of Turkey's most treasured natural wonders. Workers blasting rocks with dynamite broke through to this hidden underground chamber, forever changing Alanya's landscape and tourism industry.
Located on the western coast of the historical Alanya Castle, just 3 km from Alanya city center and 124 km from Antalya, the cave sits adjacent to the popular Cleopatra Beach. This strategic location, with its entrance facing directly toward the Mediterranean Sea, makes it easily accessible for visitors exploring the Turkish coastline.
Interestingly, the name "Damlataş" perfectly describes the cave's most distinctive feature. In Turkish, it translates to "dripping stone," referencing the continuous water droplets that fall from the ceiling. These mineral-rich droplets have, over thousands of years, created the magnificent stalactites and stalagmites that decorate the interior.
The cave holds the distinction of being the first in Turkey opened to tourism. Following its accidental discovery, authorities quickly recognized its value and placed it under protection. Scientists were particularly intrigued by the cave's unusual climate and geological characteristics, which prompted further research into its formation and properties.
Geological experts estimate that the stunning formations inside Damlataş Cave developed over approximately 15,000 years. This slow, patient process continues today as each water droplet adds microscopic mineral deposits to the growing formations.
Furthermore, the cave's location within the urban fabric of Alanya makes it a central attraction. Visitors can easily combine their cave exploration with trips to nearby highlights such as Alanya Castle, which offers panoramic views of the coastline and city below. The proximity to Cleopatra Beach additionally allows for a refreshing swim after emerging from the cool depths of the cave.
Stepping into Damlataş Cave reveals a geological spectacle shaped over millennia. The cave features a 45-50 meter long cylindrical cavity with an impressive height of 15 meters, leading visitors to its lower level. This natural wonder spans an area of 180-200 square meters and encompasses a total volume of approximately 2,500 cubic meters across its two distinct levels.
The limestone foundation of Damlataş Cave tells a story of ancient origins. Scientists estimate this sedimentary rock formed roughly 15-16 million years ago during the Miocene period. Originally, the limestone developed through the gradual accumulation of shells, coral, and other organic materials that settled on the seabed before compacting over time.
Within the cave's chambers, nature has crafted an artistic display of mineral formations. Beyond the famous stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites rising from the floor, visitors can observe other captivating calcite structures, including flowstone, curtains, and cave pearls. These formations showcase gradient colors of orange, gold, and brown, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.
Each formation inside Damlataş caves results from a remarkably slow process. Water carrying dissolved minerals drips from the ceiling, gradually depositing tiny amounts of calcite with each drop. Over approximately 15,000 years, these microscopic additions have accumulated to create the breathtaking structures visible today.
The cave maintains consistent environmental conditions that contribute to both its geological uniqueness and therapeutic reputation. Its interior preserves a constant temperature between 22-23°C throughout the year. Moreover, the humidity level reaches an extraordinary 95%, while carbon dioxide concentrations measure 10-12 times higher than in normal atmospheric air.
These remarkable geological characteristics have created not only a visually stunning natural attraction but also established the distinctive microclimate that makes Damlataş caves Alanya's natural health sanctuary. One section features wide columns adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, measuring 13-14 meters in width, showcasing nature's patient artistry at its finest.
The remarkable healing properties of Damlataş Cave stem from its unique atmospheric composition. Specifically, the air inside contains carbon dioxide levels 10-12 times higher than normal atmospheric air, coupled with an extraordinary 95% humidity[44]. These conditions remain stable year-round, with temperatures consistently hovering between 22-23°C regardless of external weather.
This distinctive microclimate creates what scientists recognize as speleotherapy—a natural treatment method utilizing cave environments to address respiratory ailments. The cave's air is exceptionally low in allergens and contaminants, essentially providing visitors with a naturally filtered breathing environment. Consequently, the mineral-rich atmosphere helps dilate bronchi and improve breathing capacity.
For those seeking treatment, Damlataş offers a structured healing regimen. Patients typically undergo a 21-day treatment course, spending four hours daily breathing the cave's therapeutic air[44]. The cave dedicates specific hours (between 6:00-10:00 am) exclusively for visitors with respiratory conditions, highlighting its dual role as both a tourist attraction and a natural treatment center.
Research suggests the cave's atmosphere primarily benefits those suffering from:
The effectiveness of this natural therapy has gained substantial recognition. In 2014 alone, the Alanya municipality recorded over 4,000 visitors with respiratory problems in just seven months. First and foremost, a geological wonder, Damlataş has evolved into an important health tourism destination with dedicated areas for respiratory patients.
Above all, what makes this cave exceptional is the combination of scientifically documented healing properties within a naturally beautiful setting. Unlike artificial treatments, the cave offers a therapeutic experience that harnesses nature's own respiratory medicine—a unique approach that continues to attract health-seekers from around the world.
The best time to visit Damlataş Caves in Turkey is during the spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the caves’ stunning stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the surrounding attractions in Alanya. Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot and crowded with tourists, while winter (November to March) may bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain, though the caves remain accessible year-round due to their stable indoor climate. Visiting in the shoulder seasons ensures a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds and ideal conditions for enjoying the cave’s natural beauty and therapeutic microclimate.
Damlatas Cave stands as a remarkable testament to nature's healing power alongside its breathtaking geological beauty. Throughout your visit, you'll experience the perfect marriage of natural wonder and therapeutic sanctuary. The cave's extraordinary atmospheric conditions—with carbon dioxide levels 10-12 times higher than normal air and humidity reaching 95%—create an environment unlike anywhere else.
Many visitors come specifically for the cave's asthma-alleviating properties, spending four hours daily for 21 days breathing the mineral-rich air. Others arrive simply to marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites formed over 15,000 years. Either way, the constant 22-23°C temperature makes Damlatas comfortable regardless of when you plan your trip.
The accidental discovery of this natural treasure during harbor construction in 1948 transformed Alanya forever. Consequently, Damlatas became the first cave in Turkey opened for tourism, now welcoming thousands of visitors annually.
Located just 3 km from Alanya city center and adjacent to Cleopatra Beach, the cave offers easy accessibility for anyone exploring the Turkish Mediterranean coast. Whether you seek relief from respiratory conditions or wish to witness a geological masterpiece, Damlatas Caves deliver an unforgettable experience that connects you directly with one of nature's most extraordinary healing environments.
Q1. What makes Damlatas Cave unique for respiratory health?
Damlatas Cave has a special microclimate with high carbon dioxide levels and humidity, which is believed to help alleviate respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
Q2. How long should one stay in Damlatas Cave for potential health benefits?
Visitors seeking respiratory relief typically follow a 21-day treatment program, spending four hours daily breathing the cave's mineral-rich air.
Q3. What geological features can be seen inside Damlatas Cave?
The cave showcases stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and other calcite formations that have developed over approximately 15,000 years, creating a mesmerizing display of natural artistry.
Q4. When was Damlatas Cave discovered and how?
Damlatas Cave was accidentally discovered in 1948 during quarrying operations for the construction of Alanya Harbor, when workers broke through to the hidden underground chamber.
Q5. What is the temperature inside Damlatas Cave?
The cave maintains a constant temperature of 22-23°C (72-73°F) throughout the year, regardless of the outside weather conditions.