Alara Castle is a medieval fortress situated approximately 37 km west of Alanya, Turkey, atop a steep hill overlooking the Alara River. Originally constructed by the Byzantine Empire in the 11th century, it was later reinforced and expanded by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I in 1232 to protect trade routes and the nearby Alara Han caravanserai. The castle features a two-part structure: an outer wall and an inner citadel, accessible via a 180-step tunnel carved into the rock. Inside, visitors can explore remnants of a palace, bathhouse, mosque, and cisterns. The ascent to the castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and river, making it a rewarding destination for history enthusiasts and hikers.
Approximately 37 km west of Alanya, situated atop a steep hill on the east bank of the Alara River.
There is no entrance fee; access is free for visitors.
There are no direct public buses to the castle. Visitors can take a bus to Avsallar and then hike or take a taxi to the castle.
Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for hiking, as the path to the castle is steep and uneven.