Konya’s Historic and Scenic Routes

Konya, both in its city centre and districts, is home to countless historical treasures and undiscovered beauties. 

Having served as the capital of the Anatolian Seljuks and carrying the identity of Darü’lMülk, Konya is deeply associated with peace and tranquility through figures such as Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, Sadreddin Konevi, and Shams of Tabriz. 

For history enthusiasts, Konya offers globally significant destinations such as Çatalhöyük Neolithic Site, one of the oldest settlements in human history with a past dating back ten thousand years. 

For travellers and nature lovers, Konya presents unique routes to explore natural and cultural wonders such as Salt Lake, Beyşehir Lake, Akşehir, Taşkent, Ermenek, Zeyve, the world famous “Evil Eye” Meke Crater Lake, and Tınaztepe Cave. 

In addition, Konya hosts several remarkable trekking routes for nature enthusiasts, including the 405-kilometer Keykubad Migration and Caravan Route, the 102-kilometer Zengibar Historical Walking Route, and the approximately 800-kilometer Sufi Trail, which stretches from Istanbul to Konya and is considered one of the longest marked walking routes in the world. 

KEYKUBAD MIGRATION AND CARAVAN ROUTE & ZENGIBAR WALKING ROUTE 

With the warming weather, for those who wish to explore breathtaking historical and natural landscapes, we would like to introduce two of the most remarkable routes: the Keykubad Migration and Caravan Route and the Zengibar Walking Route 

KEYKUBAD MIGRATION AND CARAVAN ROUTE 

Consisting of multiple stages and rich in historical and natural beauty, the Keykubad Migration and Caravan Route was opened to tourism by Konya Metropolitan Municipality in 2025. 

Developed in cooperation with the Governorships of Konya and Antalya, this route brings together thousands of years of Anatolian history, culture, and nature. 

Along the way, restored caravanserais, stone-paved roads, and ancient cities guide hikers and cyclists through breathtaking landscapes—from the massive cliffs of Mavi Boğaz Canyon to the vibrant Aygırdibi Waterfall, from the clear waters of Alara River to the mysterious ruins of the ancient city of Colybrassus. 

ZENGIBAR WALKING ROUTE 

The Zengibar Route, which has been visited and documented by travellers throughout history, offers unique experiences for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. 

This 102-kilometer historical route, covering the districts of Hadim, Taşkent, and Bozkır, was developed by Konya Metropolitan Municipality to enhance tourism diversity and bring the city’s cultural and natural richness into tourism. 

Named after Zengibar Castle, dating back to the Roman period, the route includes valleys, canyons, dams, ancient roads, plateaus, passes, ancient cities, cisterns, historical bridges, forests, caves, endemic plants, and vineyards. 

ISAURIA ROUTE 

The Isauria Route and the Zengibar Route largely overlap and complement each other as ancient pathways.

JOINING THE ROUTES 

Those who wish to explore these unique routes can participate not only in municipal tours but also in various volunteer hiking groups that organize trips on different days and routes. Joining these groups does not require strict conditions— being healthy, loving nature, and enjoying walking are sufficient. 

By Mustafa Akgöl