Konya Metropolitan Municipality Brings Spring Joy to Nature Lovers on the Keykubad Route

The 405-kilometer-long Keykubad Migration and Caravan Route between Konya and Alanya, brought to life by the Konya Governorship, the Antalya Governorship, and Konya Metropolitan Municipality, continues to welcome nature enthusiasts.

One of the most distinctive sections of this vast 405-kilometer civilization route stretching from Alanya to Konya, the 36-kilometer 6 Lakes–Ketenli–Elbengi stage offered participants a true “green therapy” experience.

As spring brought a fresh green cover to the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, the walk began with Gavur Lake, Keşlik, Kovalı, Dipsiz, and Sülüklü lakes shining like jewels along the route.

Revived to their former splendor by abundant rainfall, the lakes, combined with the vibrant shades of green around them, offered walkers truly unique views.

The first day of the hike concluded in Ketenli (Çalmanda) village, known for its historic settlement and distinctive architecture.

The group stayed in a safe and welcoming setting in the schoolyard at the center of the village, where they experienced traditional Anatolian hospitality.

The lush green valleys stretching as far as the eye can see around Ketenli created one of nature’s most generous landscapes. Immersed in the village’s historic atmosphere, participants enjoyed the privilege of breathing in the fresh mountain air amid the quiet of nature.

The route, which passes through the Kilistra and Botsa region—often referred to as the “Cappadocia of Konya” and captivating with its volcanic rock formations—served not only as a sporting activity but also as an educational experience.

With insights from Prof. Osman Doğanay, hikers listened to the stories of the monasteries, churches, and cisterns in the area, experiencing firsthand the traces of ancient migration routes and the Silk Road.

On the second day of the event, the group crossed highland routes and ancient trails, reaching the Elbengi picnic area via Yaylacık (Nuzumla).

Accompanied by the sounds of birds heralding the awakening of nature and the flowing spring waters, the hike left an unforgettable impression.

The hiking program was enriched with a wide range of content in line with Konya’s tourism vision.

Within the scope of the program, guests who visited the Çatalhöyük Promotion and Welcome Center and joined the city tour also had the opportunity to taste selected flavors of Konya cuisine.

The 405-kilometer-long Keykubad Migration and Caravan Route continues to be an important attraction for both professional hikers and nature enthusiasts, with newly certified stages added day by day.

Carried out along the ancient conquest and migration route of Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad, the project contributes to preserving Anatolia’s deep-rooted heritage and passing it on to future generations.

Nature lovers who took part in the hike also expressed that they greatly enjoyed the event, noting that every detail along the route had been carefully planned, and thanked everyone who contributed to the organization.