Dupnisa Cave

Nestled within the dense, green Istranca Forests of Kırklareli Province in northwestern Türkiye lies Dupnisa Cave, a spectacular system of three interconnected subterranean chambers. This unique attraction, the only show cave open to visitors in the northwestern Thracian region of Türkiye, invites exploration of its stunning formations, including countless stalactites and stalagmites, alongside the murmur of underground rivers.

This vast cave network, born around 180 million years ago during the Early Jurassic era, extends for an impressive 3,200 meters. Its unique design features a dual-level structure, segmented into three distinct zones:

• Sulu Cave (Wet Cave): Descend to the lower level to discover this active zone, characterized by flowing underground rivers, a grand hall, and tranquil pools. This cave is a primary source for the Rezve River, forming the natural border between Türkiye and Bulgaria.
• Kuru Cave (Dry Cave): Ascend to the upper level and explore this fossilized realm, adorned with breathtakingly large stalactites, stalagmites, and columns.
• Kız Cave (Maiden Cave): Also on the upper tier, this steep, branching passage offers a vital sanctuary for the local wildlife.

A Thriving Bat Sanctuary & Timed Closures

The cave is celebrated for its immense bat population, with an estimated 60,000 bats representing 11 to 16 different species finding refuge within its depths. As a site of paramount conservation importance, the wet sections of the cave are closed to visitors each year from November 15th to May 15th. This period is essential for allowing the bats to hibernate and reproduce without any human interference.