WHETHER YOU’RE A HISTORY BUFF, FOODIE, OR AN INSTAGRAMMER, CAPPADOCIA IN TURKIYE IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR YOU WRITES SIDRA RAMAY
A rich history that takes you back to the prehistoric times, to a vibrant culture, mouth-watering food, and traditional shopping, Turkiye has it all.
But if you’re inclined to history and cultures, then Cappadocia is the must-visit place. A region that offers visitors a deep dive into what life was like in ancient times.
Cappadocia (Kapadokya in Turkish) is a semi-arid region in Anatolia province of central Turkiye.
It’s a popular tourist destination due to its unique geographical features, i.e., clusters of tall cone-shaped rocks (fairy chimneys) formed due to geological processes some millions of years ago, now a unique valley famous for scenic hot air balloon rides.
There are other activities and sights that make this place worth visiting.
So let’s have a glimpse of them!
The whole place is steeped in history i.e., underground cities, museums, horse stables, ventilation shafts and the vintage mud caves that give you an insight into everyday life back in the day.
The ancient architecture of the caves has been carefully preserved, even the shops are made inside these historic caves. A shopping experience like never before and a unique opportunity to get traditional items like rugs, carpets, and jewelry.
Pottery is the must have thing in Cappadocia. The visitors can also observe the process of pottery making in real-time – a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and support local artisans.
One of the popular attractions in Cappadocia is Goreme, located at the heart of the valley, famous for its unique rock formation, hot air balloon rides and the suites that are built inside the caves, offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
Hot air balloon ride in Goreme gives you goosebumps as well as the mesmerising views of the entire city.
It would be a complete fairy tale scene as you float over the historic caves, gaze down, and around the panoramic view of the whole valley as well as the sight of colorful balloons.
You can choose the time according to your choice whether you like to see the magnificent sunset or a refreshing sunrise.
If you want more of a fairy tale experience, Cappadocia is home to famous castles such as Uchisar Castle.
At the Goreme Open Air Museum, one can observe artifacts of an old era, i.e., paintings, churches, and subterranean cities dating back to the 8th and 10th centuries, constructed as a means of defence during times of war.
Another tourist attraction is the famous Goreme National Park, which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can go hiking on trails and breathe in the fresh air with a spectacular view of the surroundings.
Cappadocia is an ideal location for horse riding enthusiasts. Historically, horses were integral to the region’s economy as a primary mode of transportation, which is why Cappadocia is also referred to as “Cappa,” meaning “land of beautiful horses.”
A sneak peek into the green tour
In the midst of a desert, the Ihlara Valley is like a green meadow, surrounded by the mountains and a breathtaking view of the freshwater river that runs through it. The beauty of this natural oasis is simply awe-inspiring.
The whole region of Cappadocia has many underground cities to visit – the most famous being Derinkuyu, a 10-story underground city that features remarkable amenities intricately carved by skilled craftsmen of the time.
The dovecotes in Pigeon Valley are impressive examples of architectural treasure of the people who lived in that area.
Then there’s the picturesque location, Pink Lake, also called Luz Traz, which means salt in Turkish language. During the spring season, visitors can witness pink water. However, in the summer months, most of the water evaporates, leaving behind pink salt formations. A salt shop is available on-site where visitors can purchase salt for spa treatments.
To gain more knowledge about these locations, it’s advisable to arrange a tour guide.
Turkiye is widely recognised for its delectable cuisine, including Shawarma, Turkish bread, Pasta, and kebabs, whereas Cappadocia is famous for its traditional dishes like Pottery kebab, a must try dish which is sure to satisfy your taste buds with its tantalising flavours.
Cappadocia is also a great place for influencers who are looking for Instagrammable spots. The region’s unique landscape and architecture provide a stunning backdrop for photos that are sure to impress your followers.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an Instagrammer, Cappadocia is the perfect destination for you.
There are direct flights available from Doha to Cappadocia Kayseri or Nevsehir Airport.
Take a train ride from Istanbul, if you want an economical and sustainable option or you can catch a flight from Istanbul or Ankara.
The writer is a blogger and her Insta handle is Sid_writess
