Pamukkale (translates as 'cotton castle' from Turkish) is a small village in Turkey that features one of the most spectacular natural springs. A large number of various pools, big and small of different shape shine under the gentle sun. These amazing travertine white terraces filled with clear turquoise water have been attracting visitors from all over the world for thousands of years. They were famous in Roman times and still are now. Although being famous is not always good, especially for the nature.
Lots of hotels were built everywhere around the site and pumped spring water for their own uses. There were always too many visitors in the pools. Due to the overwhelming tourists’ flow now the site is strictly protected by UNESCO. People can still bathe in the terraces, but only those shallow, semi-artificial ones.
In the nearest 17 pools the temperature of the water ranges from 35 ℃ to 100 ℃ and is rich with calcium and other minerals. Come and enjoy relaxing deep in this gorgeous natural beauty, but remember to behave like a guest and respect the nature around you.
The best time to visit the cotton castle of Pamukkale would be spring when it's not too hot, and before the pools dry up under the hot summer sun. However, it's difficult to predict when exactly the pools will lose their beauty, as even autumn months can be quite dry.
There are also some tips regarding the best time of the day to visit the pools. Usually tourist groups arrive in the afternoon, so staying in the area overnight to meet the sunrise without too many people could be a good idea.
Practical info
What makes Pamukkale famous?
One of the things that makes Pamukkale famous is its unique natural springs that form spectacular terraces filled with clear turquoise water. It's a small village in Turkey that's been drawing visitors from all over the world to its naturally-formed pools since the Roman era. The landscape is so stunning that it's also known as Cotton Castle due to the white terraces created by the water flow. Show more
What is the temperature of the water in Pamukkale's pools?
The water temperature in the 17 nearest Pamukkale pools varies between 35°C to 100°C. These pools are rich in calcium and minerals, and are believed to offer various health benefits. Pamukkale's natural thermal pools are the perfect place to relax and unwind, especially for those with conditions like muscle and joint pains. Show more
What is the best time to avoid crowds at Pamukkale's pools?
To avoid crowds at Pamukkale's thermal pools, visitors should plan to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Afternoon visits are usually overtaken by organized tour groups, so staying overnight is a great idea to witness the sunrise. It's best to avoid cloudy or rainy days as well to see the water that's clear and blue as it usually is. Show more
Are the pools at Pamukkale natural or artificial?
Pamukkale's pools are both natural and partly artificial. As the overflow of thermal water from the hot springs settles, it creates the white terraces that attract so many people. Some of the pools have been transformed into shallow semi-artificial ones to make it easier and safer for visitors to take advantage of them. Show more
What other activities can visitors do around Pamukkale besides going to the pools?
When in Pamukkale, visitors should also explore other attractions like the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis on the adjacent archaeological site. They can go trekking in the surrounding hills, visit Buldan Castle, tour the Kaklik Cave or try their hands on adventurous activities like hot air balloon rides and paragliding. Show more
