Paşabağı Göreme
Explore Paşabağı, Cappadocia's 'Monk's Valley,' famous for its surreal mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and catch golden hour.
Paşabağı Göreme
Best Time
Beat the crowds and catch golden hour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Paşabağı, Cappadocia's 'Monk's Valley,' famous for its surreal mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings.
"It's something how erosion could create beauty in the process. The mushroom-like rock formations here are a sight to behold."
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring uneven terrain and fairy chimney formations.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and stunning photos of the rock formations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mushroom-Shaped Fairy Chimneys
Paşabağı Valley
Iconic, surreal rock formations resembling mushrooms, some with carved chapels. A photographer's dream!
Monk Cells and Chapels
Paşabağı Valley
Explore ancient cave dwellings and chapels carved into the rock, offering a glimpse into historical monastic life.
Otherworldly Landscapes
Paşabağı Valley
Wander through a unique geological wonderland, perfect for immersive exploration and stunning photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring uneven terrain and fairy chimney formations.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and stunning photos of the rock formations.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as shade can be scarce.
⏳ Allow an Hour
Plan for about an hour to explore the area and capture memorable photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring uneven terrain and fairy chimney formations.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and stunning photos of the rock formations.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as shade can be scarce.
⏳ Allow an Hour
Plan for about an hour to explore the area and capture memorable photos.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be a bit challenging, so be prepared for potential difficulties.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Paşabağları is celebrated for its stunning, surreal fairy chimneys and historical cave dwellings, offering a unique geological and visual experience. While some find the crowds and commercialization a slight drawback, the otherworldly landscape and photographic opportunities make it an unforgettable stop in Cappadocia.
"Paşabağları is one of the most iconic spots in Cappadocia, and it definitely lives up to the photos! The fairy chimneys here are stunning — tall, surreal rock formations that look like they’re straight out of a fantasy film. Some even have little cave chapels or monk cells carved inside, which adds a special historical touch.
It’s a great place for walking around, taking photos, and just soaking in the otherworldly landscape. The views are especially beautiful in the late afternoon light.
The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is that it can get quite crowded, especially in peak season, and some parts feel a bit too commercialized with souvenir stands. Still, it’s absolutely worth a stop and offers some of the most striking rock formations in the region."
Daniel Vancouver
"Paşabağlari, which literally means the gardens of pashas, is where you will see geological evolution in action throughout millenia and the cave structures that people created in those times. The reason for naming the place goes back to the 19th century when the agricultural lands around the place were given to pashas loyal to the Sultan.
You can expect to spend about an hour here and get some really good photos."
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
"If I could imagine a real life place where The Smurfs lived, this would be it. It’s something how erosion—a wearing away of things due to the forces of nature alone—could create beauty in the process. The mushroom-like rock formations here are a sight to behold. I came here during a rare time of heavy snow, though the snow actually gave the landscape more character. Place like this are why I love traveling. Take your time and walk around; take the time to take it all in. Allow yourself to be in the moment. This is a must-see place."
Yetemar-Kenyell Cross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paşabağı is located on the Göreme road, just before Zelve. You can reach it by car, taxi, or as part of a guided tour like the Red Tour. +1
Yes, Paşabağı is often included in the popular Red Tour, which typically costs around 35-45 Euro per person.
While public transport options might be limited, local dolmuş (minibuses) may run in the general direction, but it's often more convenient to join a tour or hire a taxi.
Walking is the best way to experience Paşabağı. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
The main paths are generally walkable, but some areas might have steeper inclines. It's advisable to check accessibility if you have specific mobility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees for attractions in Cappadocia can vary. It's recommended to check the latest prices upon arrival or through official tourism websites, as they are not always readily available online.
The Turkey Museum Pass may not be the most cost-effective option if you're only visiting a few specific sites. It's best to calculate if it's worth it for your itinerary.
While there isn't a specific Cappadocia-only pass, the Red Tour often bundles several key sites, offering a convenient way to see multiple attractions.
As an open-air site, Paşabağı is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to confirm specific times if you plan to visit very early or late.
Yes, Paşabağı is often referred to as an open-air museum due to its unique geological formations and historical cave structures. 
📸 📸 Photography
The mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and the carved cave dwellings offer incredible photo opportunities. The late afternoon light is particularly magical.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting conditions for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow.
Drone regulations can change and vary by location. It's best to check with local authorities or your tour operator before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a standard zoom lens is versatile for details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions.
Photography rules inside historical structures can vary. Be respectful of any signage or requests from guides regarding photography within the chapels.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Paşabağı is famous for its exceptionally well-preserved and unique mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys, some of which have multiple 'caps'.
You'll find striking fairy chimneys, ancient monk cells, and a chapel dedicated to St. Simeon, offering a glimpse into the region's history.
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the area, taking photos, and appreciating the unique landscape.
Yes, there are souvenir stands in some parts of the area, though some visitors feel it can detract from the natural beauty.
The name 'Paşabağları' means 'gardens of pashas'. Historically, it was a place where monks lived and prayed, with a chapel built in the 10th century.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring snacks and plenty of water, as facilities can be limited. Ensure children wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven. While the area is generally safe for exploration, keep a close eye on younger children, especially near any steeper inclines or drop-offs.
Visiting during off-peak hours can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and unique rock formations. Don't overlook the details – the textures of the rock, the carved entrances to ancient dwellings, and the historical chapels offer compelling subjects.
Be prepared for crowds and consider visiting early or late to get unobstructed shots. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Joining a guided tour, like the Red Tour, can be a great way to meet other travelers and gain insights into the history and geology of the region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Fairy Chimneys
Many of these formations have been hollowed out by early inhabitants, serving as dwellings, storage areas, and even churches. The most notable is the chapel dedicated to St. Simeon, a testament to the area's historical religious significance. Exploring these carved spaces offers a unique perspective on how people adapted to and utilized this dramatic environment.
+1Visitors often describe the experience as stepping into a fantasy world, with the unique shapes and textures of the rocks providing endless fascination. The sheer scale and artistry of nature on display here make it a must-see for anyone visiting Cappadocia.
Photography Tips for Paşabağı
To make the most of your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the landscape and the unique shapes of the chimneys. Don't forget to look for interesting details within the formations, such as the carved entrances to ancient dwellings or the textures of the rock.
Many visitors find that simply walking around and observing from different angles yields the best results. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the busiest times and secure better vantage points for your photos.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit