Enjoying Nature’s Beauty While Soaking in Pamukkale, Turkey

Soaking in warm water is a favorite activity for many tourists, including those from Indonesia. Just look at the many hot spring spots that are always crowded with visitors during the holidays. If you plan a trip to Turkey and enjoy this activity, consider visiting Pamukkale, Turkey.

A Brief History of Pamukkale Travertines, Turkey

The city of Pamukkale is located in Denizli Province, in southwestern Turkey. The city is also known as the “cotton castle”. The nickname came from the white and cotton-like appearance of the hot springs area where you can soak in. Even the name Pamukkale translates to “cotton castle”, in line with its nickname.

The hot springs area is called Pamukkale Travertines. The shape of the hot spring pools differs from typical hot spring pools, as the pools there form terraces with pools at different levels.

Pamukkale Travertines were formed by the earthquakes that occurred thousands of years ago. As a result of these earthquakes, hot springs containing calcium carbonate emerged and gradually accumulated, forming white limestone layers. This is what makes the hot spring pools in Pamukkale resemble cotton terraces.

Visiting Pamukkale, Turkey

Unfortunately, due to various reasons, the current condition of Pamukkale Travertines is not as you might see in photos on the internet, which show extensive layered limestone formations and numerous hot spring pools filled with water. The flow of the hot springs is now regulated, so not all pools are fully filled.

Don’t be disappointed though because you can still leisurely walk and enjoy the beautiful white limestone formations. Additionally, there are other tourist attractions you can visit in this city, such as:

● The Ruined City, Hierapolis

Hierapolis is an ancient city that has now vanished. In the past, this city was known as a place for relaxation, spas, and hot springs. Although the city is now in ruins, you can still see the remnants of buildings from that age. The place is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

● Hierapolis Theater

The Hierapolis Theatre is designed like stadium seating with a semicircular stage at the lower center. However, all these seats are made of stone and still look very natural. Although there isn't much to enjoy here, you can see firsthand what ancient theaters looked like. Additionally, if you come near sunset, you can enjoy a beautiful view while sitting in this stone seating area.

● Teater Hierapolis

The Hierapolis Theater is shaped like stadium seating with a semi-circular stage at the lower center. All the seats are made of stone and look very natural. While there is not much to enjoy there, you can see an ancient theater firsthand. Moreover, if you visit around sunset, you can enjoy a beautiful view while sitting in the stone seating area.

● Hierapolis Museum

The Hierapolis Museum is a little small, but you can see many exciting collections. The artifacts there are relics from the City of Hierapolis, which was once the most vibrant city in Turkey.

● Hot Spring Pools

Besides soaking in the terraced hot spring pools mentioned earlier, there is also a special hot spring pool located right next to the Temple of Apollo. This hot spring pool is rich in minerals and has marble ruins around it. The water temperature is 36°C and is excellent for relieving aches and relaxing the body.

So, now you have quite a few places to visit in Pamukkale, Turkey, right? If you are interested in going there, you can take a high-speed train from Istanbul to Eskisehir, which takes 3 hours. Then, take another train to Denizli, which takes 8 hours. You can take a local bus from Denizli to Pamukkale or go by taxi.

If you plan to travel to Turkey, you can include Pamukkale in your itinerary for about 2 days, as the tourist attractions mentioned earlier can be visited in a short time. Unless you really love soaking in hot springs, then you might want to allocate more time.

To make your trip even more relaxing and comfortable, make sure to purchase Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia before you go. With this insurance, you will not have to worry about the risks that may occur during your travel.