Pamukkale

Pamukkale's white travertine pools step down a hillside beneath Hierapolis, catching the evening sky in their shallow water.

Look down from the plateau-edge Sunset Spot as curved pool rims lead toward the valley, then explore Hierapolis above. Only the cascade from the Town Gate is open to walkers: remove shoes and keep to the permitted route. The rock can be slippery, water reaches shin depth, and shade is absent; carry water and sun protection, and expect some pools to dry out.

Best light
Sunset
Best months
Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct
Time needed
Half a day

Get around

Sleep

On the map

OpenStreetMap · OpenFreeMap

Pamukkale

Pamukkale's white travertine pools step down a hillside beneath Hierapolis, catching the evening sky in their shallow water.

Look down from the plateau-edge Sunset Spot as curved pool rims lead toward the valley, then explore Hierapolis above. Only the cascade from the Town Gate is open to walkers: remove shoes and keep to the permitted route. The rock can be slippery, water reaches shin depth, and shade is absent; carry water and sun protection, and expect some pools to dry out.

Best light
Sunset
Best months
Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct
Time needed
Half a day

Get around

Sleep

Links

The Best of the WorldThis spot and 99 more