Grad Trip Day 9: Pamukkale, Turkey

DAY 9: 27 MAY 2014
It's time to say goodbye to Selcuk, and head to our last destination
in Turkey - Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pamukkale, which means "cotton castles" in Turkish,
is famous for its calcium travertines.
You will know what I mean when you see the pictures later!

We headed to the otogar to wait for our bus to Pamukkale, which was
expected to leave at 9am.
We managed to purchase a direct bus ticket at one of the agencies there.
If I remembered correctly, it costs around 30 liras per person.
Previously we did some research and we couldn't find any information
regarding a direct shuttle to Pamukkale.
So we were a little hesitant when the employee kept pushing us to purchase
those tickets, but we decided to trust him in the end.
Turns out, the bus was a tour bus heading towards Pammukale which explains
the existence of a direct shuttle.
Anyways, after a 3.5 hour long bus journey, we finally arrived in Pamukkale!

We first checked into Ozen Turku Pension which we have pre-booked online.
The room was basic but met all our needs, and most importantly,
the cotton castles were of close proximity!

Right after lunch, we went straight to the cotton castles!
The entrance fee was 30 liras, which includes the travertines and hierapolis.
Footwear is not allowed when you are walking on the travertines.
Hence, do bring a pair of slippers when you visit as it is definitely more convenient.
In addition, it would be better to wear shorts or bermudas as you will be getting
your feet and calves soaked in the water.
Many visitors were wearing their swim wear as you are allowed to play in
the pools!
At the bottom of the travertines
Constant flow of water down the travertines
My travel buddies
Sneaking a photo of Amanda
The hike up to the top was really relaxing, and I just couldn't get
enough of the travertines!
There is definitely a slight discomfort when walking due to the presence of
sharp stones in the water, but the view will make up for it.

There are ruins situated at the peak of the travertines, which include a
Roman amphitheatre of Hierapolis.
We hung around the travertines once more and caught the sunset.
It was really pretty to see the travertines in a slight orange hue as the
light shines onto them.

Thereafter, we went to get dinner and had an early nights' rest because
we've got a morning flight to catch the next day!
And this also marks the end of our adventure in Turkey and with my travel buddies.
The next two-thirds of my trip will be an adventure with Michelle!

Comments