Pasabag Monks Valley
Explore Pasabag Monks Valley, a surreal landscape of mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and ancient monk caves in Cappadocia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Pasabag Monks Valley
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Pasabag Monks Valley, a surreal landscape of mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and ancient monk caves in Cappadocia.
"A spectacular and historical place that depicts the ability of man and his coexistence with nature."
🚗 Rent a Car or Taxi
Avoid boring tours! Renting a car or taxi gives you freedom and saves money.
💧 Carry Water
Stay hydrated, especially during longer walks in hot weather.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mushroom-Shaped Fairy Chimneys
Pasabag Valley
Iconic rock formations with basalt caps resembling mushrooms or houses, a signature of Monks Valley.
Monk Refuges
Pasabag Valley
Ancient caves carved into the rock pillars, once used by monks, offering a glimpse into historical living spaces.
Unique Rock Formations
Pasabag Valley
Spectacular cone-topped pillars sculpted by volcanic eruptions and erosion over millennia.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Pasabag
Protecting the Fairy Chimneys
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car or Taxi
Avoid boring tours! Renting a car or taxi gives you freedom and saves money.
💧 Carry Water
Stay hydrated, especially during longer walks in hot weather.
📸 Photography Paradise
Unique perspectives and otherworldly shapes make it a dream for photographers.
🚶♀️ Explore Independently
No guide needed! The valley is easy to explore on your own.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car or Taxi
Avoid boring tours! Renting a car or taxi gives you freedom and saves money.
💧 Carry Water
Stay hydrated, especially during longer walks in hot weather.
📸 Photography Paradise
Unique perspectives and otherworldly shapes make it a dream for photographers.
🚶♀️ Explore Independently
No guide needed! The valley is easy to explore on your own.
🧘♀️ Yoga Amidst Nature
Experience a unique yoga session surrounded by stunning natural formations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pasabag Monks Valley is widely praised for its spectacular and otherworldly fairy chimney formations, offering a unique geological and historical experience. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore ancient monk refuges and find it a fantastic spot for photography. However, some find it can be crowded with tour groups and feel it's a bit expensive compared to other free valleys in the region.
"The so-called Monk’s Valley (Paşabağ) is part of a protected area with an entrance fee. Here you can see a number of impressive fairy chimneys – not all of them are accessible, some are fenced off to protect them. The formations are very different from those in Love Valley: many have hard basalt caps, which make them look like little houses or mushrooms.
Even though guided tours are offered, you don’t really need one – the area can easily be explored on your own. Some fairy chimneys and caves are closed to visitors, which makes sense, as unfortunately many of the open sites in Cappadocia show signs of graffiti or damage. Protecting these natural wonders ensures they will remain for future generations.
Because Paşabağ is close to Göreme, it gets very busy – lots of buses and tour groups arrive here. The romantic, quiet atmosphere you might find in Love Valley or Rose Valley is missing. Still, the site is truly spectacular and feels almost otherworldly – somewhere between a fairy tale and a science fiction movie.
For photography lovers it’s a fantastic place, with unique perspectives and shapes. I would definitely recommend it as part of any Cappadocia visit, especially if you are fascinated by the different forms of fairy chimneys."
Marketa Lübben (Ordnungsfaden)
"DO NOT COME HERE WITH A TOUR. DO NOT GO ANYWHERE WITH A TOUR. the ones from the hotel are incredibly boring and quiet and they make you sit under trees instead of looking around. Save your money, rent a car. A taxi and go on your own. Do not take a tour. Don’t do it. They said we would have an hour at a place, but in reality we had 15 minutes. Just don’t."
Vale Vici
"A spectacular and historical place that depicts the ability of man and his coexistence with nature. In hot weather, carrying water to drink will greatly help with the two-hour walk."
Hossein Janei
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pasabag Monks Valley is located on the Zelve road, between Goreme and Avanos. You can easily reach it by renting a car or hiring a taxi for more flexibility than a guided tour.
Many travelers recommend going independently by renting a car or taxi. Tours can be boring, rushed, and limit your exploration time.
For flexibility, renting a car or using taxis is highly recommended to explore various valleys like Pasabag, Love Valley, and Rose Valley at your own pace.
While public transport options exist in Cappadocia, they might not be as direct or convenient for reaching specific sites like Pasabag compared to private transport.
Pasabag Monks Valley is situated on the road between Goreme and Avanos, making it a convenient stop when traveling between these two popular towns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Pasabag Monks Valley is part of a protected area and requires an entrance fee.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but it's generally open from morning until sunset. It's best to check current hours before your visit, especially if aiming for early morning to avoid crowds.
No, some fairy chimneys are fenced off for protection to prevent damage and graffiti, ensuring their preservation for future visitors.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance. Booking in advance is usually not necessary unless part of a specific tour package.
While you can see the main formations relatively quickly, to truly appreciate the unique landscape and avoid feeling rushed, allocate at least an hour or two.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Visiting during these times also helps avoid peak crowds.
The unique mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and otherworldly rock formations provide fantastic, unique perspectives and shapes that are a photographer's dream.
Wander through the valley to discover various angles. The sheer density and variety of formations offer countless photographic opportunities from ground level.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in protected areas and historical sites in Turkey. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the formations, while a standard zoom lens offers versatility. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the ancient monk refuges carved into the rocks, learn about the geological history, and enjoy the unique, almost alien landscape. Some visitors also enjoy yoga sessions here.
While you can see the main sights in about an hour, to truly appreciate the unique formations and explore at a relaxed pace, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours.
The main paths are relatively flat, but some areas might have uneven terrain. Accessibility can be challenging in certain parts due to the natural landscape.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be walking on uneven ground. Dress in layers as the weather can change, and wear sun protection.
Basic facilities are usually available near the entrance, including restrooms. Food and drink options might be limited, so it's wise to bring your own water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The relatively flat terrain in many areas makes it manageable for little legs, though comfortable shoes are a must. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the fairy chimneys and look for interesting details and textures. The historical aspect, with ancient monk refuges, also adds a compelling narrative to your photography. 🚶♀️ Independent Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Fairy Chimneys
These natural sculptures create an otherworldly landscape that feels almost surreal. The variety in shapes and sizes, from slender spires to robust pillars topped with large caps, is astounding. It's this dramatic and unusual topography that draws visitors from around the globe, eager to witness these natural wonders firsthand.
While many valleys in Cappadocia feature fairy chimneys, Pasabag is particularly celebrated for its density and the distinctiveness of its formations. The visual impact is immense, making it a must-see for anyone interested in natural history and geology.
Historical Significance: Monks Valley
+1These ancient hermitages and monastic cells are a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of these early inhabitants. While many of these historical structures are no longer accessible or have been weathered by time, their presence adds a profound layer of history to the already captivating landscape. Exploring these carved-out spaces offers a tangible connection to the past and the spiritual significance of the region.
Visiting Pasabag provides not just a visual spectacle but also an opportunity to reflect on the centuries of human history intertwined with this unique natural environment. The blend of natural wonder and historical depth makes it a truly compelling destination.
Photography Tips for Pasabag
When composing your shots, experiment with different angles and perspectives. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the entire valley and the towering fairy chimneys. Don't forget to look for interesting details up close, such as the texture of the rock or the carved-out monk refuges. Including elements like people or the sky can help provide a sense of scale and context to the immense formations.
Remember that many of the formations are protected, so be mindful of any fenced-off areas. The goal is to capture the essence of this otherworldly landscape while respecting its preservation. With a little patience and creativity, you can create stunning photographs that truly convey the magic of Pasabag.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit