Solo Exploration of Pamukkale's Thermal Wonders

Echoes of the Past: A Day in Hierapolis and Pamukkale

Today was a day of diving deep into history and experiencing the unique natural beauty of Pamukkale. From exploring ancient ruins to soaking in thermal waters, it was an experience that truly transported me back in time. I’m excited to share the highlights of my day, hoping to inspire you to add this incredible destination to your travel list.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Traverten Pide. I opted for a traditional Turkish pide, which was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and I enjoyed watching the locals go about their morning routines.

Fueled up, I made my way to the ancient city of Hierapolis. My first stop was the Templo de Apollo. The temple ruins stand proudly, offering a glimpse into the religious practices of the past. Wandering through the remnants of this once-grand structure, I tried to imagine the ceremonies and rituals that would have taken place here centuries ago. The temple's location, perched on a slope, provided stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It was easy to understand why this spot was chosen as a sacred place.


Explore the Templo de Apollo in Pamukkale, a stunning historical landmark that immerses you in ancient Greek culture amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Next, I ventured towards Cehennem Kapısı, also known as the Gate to Hell. This site was particularly intriguing, shrouded in mystery and ancient beliefs. I learned that in ancient times, this cave was believed to be a portal to the underworld, and animals were sacrificed here. The archeologists have discovered that the cave emits carbon dioxide, which explains the death of the animals. Although I couldn't enter the cave for safety reasons, just standing near the entrance sent shivers down my spine. It was a stark reminder of how different the world was in ancient times, filled with superstitions and a deep connection to the supernatural.


Explore Cehennem Kapısı, an extraordinary gateway to ancient myths and stunning natural beauty in Pamukkale, Turkey.

The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.

After the somewhat eerie experience at the Gate to Hell, I decided to lighten the mood with a visit to the Piscina de Cleopatra, or Cleopatra's Pool. This thermal pool is legendary, and it's said that Cleopatra herself once bathed in these very waters. For an extra fee, you can swim in the pool. Swimming amidst the submerged Roman ruins was surreal. The water was warm and soothing, and I could feel my muscles relaxing instantly. The experience was both luxurious and historically fascinating – a true highlight of the day.


Discover the ancient allure of Cleopatra's Pool in Pamukkale, where thermal waters meet stunning travertine terraces for a unique Turkish experience.

For lunch, I decided to try Seven Spices Indian restaurant. As much as I love Turkish cuisine, I was craving something different, and the aromas wafting from this place were irresistible. I ordered a flavorful curry and some naan bread, which transported me back to the tastes of home. It was a delightful change of pace and a reminder of the diverse culinary scene that exists even in smaller towns like Pamukkale.


Experience authentic Indian flavors at Seven Spices Indian Restaurant in Pamukkale – where every dish tells a story.

In the late afternoon, I took some time to wander through the modern part of Pamukkale, eventually stopping at Cadde Steak House for a refreshing drink. While it was not on my list, it was a great spot to relax and people-watch. The atmosphere was lively, and I enjoyed soaking in the local vibes.


Discover the authentic taste of Turkish cuisine at Cadde Steak House, where every meal is a celebration of flavors in Pamukkale.

As the sun began to set, I headed to Uğur Restoran Bar for dinner. The restaurant had a cozy ambiance, and I decided to try some traditional Turkish dishes. I savored every bite, reflecting on the incredible day I had experienced. The food, the history, and the natural beauty of Pamukkale had truly captivated me.


Discover authentic Turkish cuisine at Uğur Restoran Bar in Pamukkale – where flavor meets hospitality amidst stunning landscapes.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Aphrodisias Ancient City, the Temple of Aphrodite, and Aphrodisias Bouleterion. I’m looking forward to exploring more of Turkey’s rich history and culture. I’m also planning to visit Seramika Hediyelik çini porselen to pick up some souvenirs for Lena and Omar.

Pamukkale has a lot of offer. If you ever have the chance to visit, don't hesitate. You won't be disappointed.

Before I turn in for the night, I wanted to share a funny little incident that happened today. As I was walking near Cleopatra's Pool, I saw a group of tourists trying to take a selfie with a stray cat. The cat, however, had other plans and darted away, leaving the tourists flustered and laughing. It was a lighthearted moment that reminded me of the unpredictable joys of travel.

Until tomorrow!

P.S. I really need to remember to buy a power adapter. My phone is constantly running out of battery, and it’s making it difficult to take photos and notes. Also, a rain jacket would have been useful today. The weather was a bit unpredictable, and I got caught in a light shower this morning. Lesson learned: always be prepared!

Good night from Pamukkale!