Photo: Volker Höhfeld (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Source 5 places to visit in the Cihanbeyli district of Konya: Tuz Gölü (Cihanbeyli Shore), Cihanbeyli Höyükleri (Mounds) and Cihanbeyli Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii). Plan your trip to Cihanbeyli with local food, practical tips and transport information.
The district took its current name from the Canbegli Kurdish tribe, which came here from the Urfa region in the 18th century.
Cihanbeyli was first called Esbikeşan, and was later known as İnevi, a name it carried for many years. In 1928 Böğrüdelik became the district centre and Cihanbeyli was attached to it. In 1954 Kulu, and in 1987 Altınekin, were made district centres and separated from Cihanbeyli.
To the east of Cihanbeyli lie Tuz Lake and Aksaray province; to the west are the districts of Sarayönü and Yunak. The average elevation of the district centre is 955 metres above sea level. Together with its surrounding marshes and ponds, Tersakan Lake covers 5,500 hectares within the district boundaries. Sodium sulphate is mined from this lake and its surroundings, and is used in the soda, soap, leather, paint, glass and detergent industries.
The name Cihanbeyli comes from the Canbegli Kurdish tribe, which came to the area from the Urfa region in the 18th century. The district’s first name was Esbikeşan; it was later called İnevi and known by that name for many years.
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Photo: Volker Höhfeld (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Source The north-eastern shore of Tuz Lake, Türkiye's second-largest lake, lies within the boundaries of Cihanbeyli. In summer, salt crystals on the lake surface form a white crust, and flamingos visit the lake.
View on mapThe mounds around the district show that the area has been settled since the Hittite period.
View on mapBuilt in the Ottoman period, the mosque is notable for its stonework. This building, which retains traces of traditional construction techniques, reflects the spiritual heritage of the region.
View on mapTürkiye's second-largest lake, located east of Cihanbeyli. In summer the water turns red and pink because of a red pigment produced by algae.
View on mapA lake within the district boundaries from which sodium sulphate is mined. Together with its marshy areas, it covers 5,500 hectares.
View on mapWhile you are in Cihanbeyli, you can also see the highlights of Konya province. These places are in other districts; Cihanbeyli is about 100 km from the provincial centre.
Konya's famous meat flatbread, also made in Cihanbeyli's traditional bakeries.
Tarhana, prepared by drying yoghurt, tomato and wheat flour, is an essential soup for the winter months.
Bread specific to Cihanbeyli, registered as a geographical indication. Made with wheat flour, rock salt and water.
For centuries Tuz Lake met the salt needs of the local people. The tradition of salt gathering is part of Cihanbeyli's cultural identity.
Dryland farming and livestock herding, traditions of the Central Anatolian steppe climate, continue in Cihanbeyli.
Cihanbeyli's economy is based on agriculture and livestock farming. Wheat, barley and lentils are the main crops. Salt is produced from Tuz Lake. Small livestock farming is an important source of income.
Cihanbeyli is 100 km from Konya provincial centre and 180 km from Ankara. The Konya–Ankara road passes through the district. Regular bus services run.
5 prominent places in Cihanbeyli: Tuz Gölü (Cihanbeyli Shore), Cihanbeyli Höyükleri, Cihanbeyli Grand Mosque, Tuz Lake and Tersakan Lake.
Etli Ekmek, Tarhana Çorbası and Cihanbeyli Gömeç Ekmeği are the standout flavours on Cihanbeyli's tables.
Cihanbeyli is known for Cihanbeyli Gömeç Ekmeği and its Tuz Lake culture. It is a product registered with TÜRKPATENT as a protected geographical indication.
Cihanbeyli is 100 km from Konya provincial centre and 180 km from Ankara. The Konya–Ankara road passes through the district. Regular bus services run.
Suggested visit length: 1 day. Best time to visit: summer months (June–August), when Tuz Lake is at its most beautiful.