5 tips when you visit the Traventine terraces of Pamukale (Cotton Castle)

The dazzling white calcite cliff of Pamukkale was created by calcium deposits from the area’s hot springs. In the same way that stalactites form within limestone caves, the deposits grow on the steep slopes, gradually fanning out to form natural Terraces. Pamukkale means “cotton castle,” and the blinding white color of these travertines do look like a bizarre natural fortress of sorts. The best way to do your sightseeing here is to walk (barefoot only) from the base of the calcite mountain up the entire cliff ridge. The terraces at the upper levels hold pools of water, which you can sit in.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pamukkale

1. Tours: If you’re short on time and want to visit Pamukkale from Izmir, the tour allows you to see the travertines and ruins of Hierapolis on a day tour, with lunch included and the service of an English-speaking guide. Transport is by air-conditioned coach.
2. Hot Balloon ride : Take the early morning Hot air balloon ride. The Sunrise over the terraces is beautiful.
3. Escape the Crowds: Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit. The site gets busy with tour buses between 10.30am and 3pm. If you stay overnight in Pamukkale village, you can get there early or late and beat the crowds. It’s also a good idea to enter from the middle gate (at the base of the hill) rather than from the gate at the summit. Tour buses always enter from the summit, and many tourists don’t bother walking down the full extent of the terraces from the top.
4. Explore the Area: Hiring a car to explore the surrounding countryside and its scattering of ancient ruins is an excellent idea.
5. Dress well as it gets hot during the day. Wear bright colors for the pictures. You would get many photo opportunities for that perfect picture during your walk up. The contrast adds up to the pictures.