Short Guide to Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale is a truly miraculous landscape located in the western region of Turkey. Translating into ‘Cotton Castle’ in Turkish, its striking white hills and waterfall formations result in a fairy tale scenery. This guide outlines everything you need to know about the stunning Pamukkale.

What is Pamukkale?

As one of the best loved natural wonders of Turkey, it’s not difficult to see why it’s so popular. This unique and mysterious phenomenon is built up of beautiful white and turquoise terraces.

Pamukkale is a formation of sedimentary rocks that resulted from the thermal spring’s mineral water. These rocks are calcium rich and are called limestone ‘travertine’. As a result, visitors are magnetised by the crystal pools and ivory hills of cascading water. Visitors come here to admire it’s beauty, dip in the thermal springs and check out the ‘Holy City’ Hierapolis.

Interesting facts about Pamukkale

1. Pamukkale’s striking pigment can be seen all the way from space.

2. A stone’s throw away from Pamukkale’s travertine rocks is Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman city. Its name translates into ‘Holy City’ and was thought to be discovered around 190 BC. There you will find a grand amphitheatre that remains in impeccable state, as well as other fascinating ruins.  

3. Pamukkale is home to one of the world’s most unique hot springs. Visitors can enjoy a dip in the steaming waters, floating amongst the ruins submerged in the springs. The hot springs result from the underground volcanic activity and are said to have healing properties.

4. Amongst Pamukkale’s divine setting you will find the Roman gateway to Hell. Pluto’s Gate is located in Hieropolis and was used as the city’s ploutonion (that’s a sanctuary dedicated to the Roman God Pluto).

Pluto’s Gate has fully lived up to its name. Built on toxic gas, the birds attracted to the cave’s warmth were found dead. Visitor’s however can safely visit the site in proximity!

5.  When is Pamukkale at its most glorious?

During the evening, when the Turkish landscape lends magnificent views of light hitting the honeycombs of water. The morning usually results in a darkened Pamukkale due to the hills blocking the light. So if you are itching for Insta-worthy pics, the evening is the time to go.

How do I get there?

There’s no better way to tick off Turkey’s natural wonders from your list than with the ease and convenience of a tour. Discover Pamukkale with Travel Talk Tours here.

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