Pamukkale, located in western Türkiye, about 20 kilometres from Denizli, is a true natural wonder with gorgeous snow-white travertines and terraced pools that resemble frozen waterfalls. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the travertines appear as a field of clouds dotted with warm, aquamarine-coloured pools. Immerse yourself in these healing mineral waters and discover the captivating beauty of Pamukkale up close.
An Enchanting Natural Wonder
Considered a bucket list destination for many, Pamukkale is known for its beautiful snow-white travertines, formed by the interaction of oxygen and thermal waters. A perfect blend of history and nature, the Pamukkale travertines, with their mineral waters, are also believed to offer healing properties. Every year, people worldwide flock to this mesmerising destination, enchanted by the breathtaking landscapes and the potential for rejuvenation. It is important to note that most travertines are protected due to their delicate structure. Still, visitors can freely walk in some regions of the travertines containing small terrace-shaped pools. To preserve the travertines, guests must remove their shoes and socks before entering.
The Ancient Healing Waters
Adjacent to the Pamukkale travertines is the awe-inspiring Hierapolis Ancient City, also part of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around 2,500 years ago, King Eumenes II of Pergamon, enthralled by the splendour of the travertines, built a city near the site. Honouring Hiera, the wife of Telephos, was the legendary founder of Pergamon, and the region was called Hierapolis. In the literature, Hierapolis is referred to as the Holy City, and the spellbinding atmosphere of this incredibly well-preserved ancient city attests to its title. As you explore the site’s ancient theatre, temples, monumental fountains, tombs, agora and gymnasium, you’ll be transported through time, strolling along stone streets that existed two thousand years ago. The stories surrounding Ploutonium believed to be the entrance to hell during the Roman Period, are also quite fascinating.
Timeless Adventures
Hierapolis, with its majestic presence around the travertines, has long been considered a central hub for healing and wellness thanks to the rejuvenating thermal waters found in the area. Throughout its history, Hierapolis was known for its healing thermal waters, and centuries later, the ancient city continues to draw visitors who seek the therapeutic and rejuvenating qualities of those waters. Immersing in the Ancient Pool, surrounded by antique columns and marble, is a unique experience. Featuring a year-round temperature of 36 degrees, the Ancient Pool is famously called the Cleopatra Pool – legend has it that the illustrious Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, once bathed in the waters of the pool. Indulge in the revitalising thermal waters of the pool, swim amid the ancient ruins, and savour the authentic environment.
From Pool to Museum
Other notable buildings in Hierapolis include the Ancient Theatre and the Hierapolis Museum. The theatre stands out among the Roman Period theatres in the Mediterranean basin due to its distinctive reliefs depicting mythological stories and splendid stage building and seating steps. Sitting at the pinnacle of this breathtaking theatre and observing the entire region in complete tranquillity for hours is an exceptional experience. The Roman Bath, once a revered thermal centre, has been repurposed as an archaeological museum. At the Hierapolis Museum, you’ll find a fascinating collection of artefacts discovered during excavations in nearby ruins like Laodikeia and Tripolis. These treasures are displayed amid the impressive vaulted Roman Bath structures constructed from travertine block stones.
- How to get there: If you're planning a trip to Pamukkale, flying to Denizli Çardak Airport is convenient. Daily flights from İstanbul Airport take about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Once you arrive, you can easily reach Pamukkale within an hour by renting a car, taking a taxi, or using a shuttle service.
- Must Do: To enhance your tranquil Pamukkale experience, consider an exhilarating activity such as paragliding or hot air ballooning. These adventures offer a breathtaking perspective of the ancient city of Hierapolis and the stunning travertines.
- Must See: Laodikeia, one of the Seven Churches mentioned in the Bible, is just 15 km from Pamukkale and Denizli. It is a significant site to visit in the region.
- Must Buy: Pamukkale, renowned for its weavings, is celebrated for its Buldan cloth, which is crafted from cotton fabric using traditional techniques. Thanks to its unique weaving technique and carefully selected dyes, buldan cloth is known for its exceptional health benefits, long-lasting durability, and hypoallergenic properties.
- Must Eat: The city’s most beloved dish is the Denizli kebab, which is made with succulent lamb meat and expertly cooked in a traditional stone oven. You can also experience the delightful flavours of gözlemes baked on a wood fire.
- And Don't Forget! To maximise your time in Pamukkale, consider staying at the nearby thermal facilities. You can indulge in soothing massages there, luxuriate in the thermal waters, and even treat yourself to invigorating mud baths. Another popular attraction in Denizli is the Karahayıt Thermal Springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate.