Pasabag Valley, also known as “Monks Valley” is one of the most popular fairy chimneys areas of Cappadocia, situated between Avanos and Goreme. Pasabag Valley is also one most popular places to see in Cappadocia that travelers may experience mushroom shaped fairy chimneys with multiple stems and caps.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Pasabag Monks Valley, including ticket options, must-see sites, visiting tips, and how to make the most of your experience.
If you’re planning a visit to this incredible valley, here’s what you should know before you go!
Pasabag Monks Valley Fact Sheet: 7 Fascinating Facts
No Regrets Booking Advice
Before we get into ticket prices and visiting tips, here are seven incredible facts about Pasabag Monks Valley that you might not know!
✔ Home to Cappadocia’s Most Iconic Fairy Chimneys – Pasabag is famous for its tall, mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys, some of the most recognizable rock formations in the region.
✔ A Spiritual Retreat for Early Monks – The valley was once a secluded retreat for Christian monks, who carved rock-cut chapels and dwellings into the fairy chimneys.
✔ Saint Simeon Lived in Seclusion Here – The most famous fairy chimney in the valley is where Saint Simeon, a Byzantine monk, lived in isolation for 15 years.
✔ Also Known as “Valley of the Monks” – The site’s name comes from its history as a spiritual hideaway, where monks sought peace and solitude.
✔ The Fairy Chimneys Were Formed Over Millions of Years – These formations were created by erosion from wind, rain, and volcanic activity, shaping the surreal landscape we see today.
✔ You Can Walk Among the Rock Formations – Unlike some Cappadocia sites, Pasabag allows visitors to freely explore the fairy chimneys, making it an interactive and photogenic destination.
✔ A Top Spot for Photography – The unique rock formations, open landscapes, and soft lighting at sunrise and sunset make Pasabag one of the best places in Cappadocia for taking stunning photos.
Our Recommendation: We Booked These Tickets
Pasabag Monks Valley is one of Cappadocia’s most famous and photogenic sites, known for its tall, mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and historical significance as a former retreat for monks.
Unlike some other attractions, entry to Pasabag is free, making it an easy and budget-friendly stop during your Cappadocia trip.
Since no ticket is required, we visited Pasabag Monks Valley independently, allowing us to take our time exploring the unique rock formations and cave dwellings.
However, if you want a deeper understanding of the site’s history, Pasabag is also included in the Cappadocia Red Tour. This is a great option if you prefer a guided experience with transport included, covering other top sites in the region.
Whether you explore on your own or with a tour, Pasabag Monks Valley is a must-visit in Cappadocia, offering some of the best fairy chimney formations in the region.
Pasabag Monks Valley Tickets & Prices
Since Pasabag Monks Valley is free to visit, the only decision is whether to explore on your own or join a guided tour.
1. Standard Entry (Free) – Self-Guided Visit (We Chose This!)
✔ No entry fee – completely free to visit
✔ Explore at your own pace
❌ No guide or transport included
Best for: Independent travelers who want to take their time exploring the fairy chimneys and enjoy photography without time restrictions.
2. Cappadocia Red Tour (Varied Price) – Best for Guided Exploration
✔ Includes Pasabag Monks Valley + other top attractions
✔ Professional guide for historical insights
✔ Transportation & lunch included
✔ Visit additional sites like Göreme Open Air Museum, Zelve Open Air Museum, Devrent Valley & Avanos Pottery Workshop
Best for: Travelers who want a hassle-free day tour, learning about Pasabag’s history and other key sites in one trip.
We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money. Also double check that Pasabag is included in the tour as some tours don’t offer.
✔ Looking for a premium experience? → Choose the VIP Pro Guide Tour
✔ Want to combine Red and Green Tours? → Get the Combo Tour
✔ Prefer a small-group tour? → Book the North Cappadocia Ancient Route
Where Should You Visit Pasabag Monks Valley?
You can explore it:
✔ Independently at any time – No entry ticket required!
✔ As part of the Cappadocia Red Tour, which includes transport, a guide, and other key attractions
If you’re visiting multiple sites, the Cappadocia Red Tour offers the best way to see everything in one day without arranging transport.
Is a Guided Tour Worth It?
It depends on your travel style:
✔ Want complete flexibility and free access? Visit on your own—no ticket needed.
✔ Prefer a guided experience with transport? Book the Cappadocia Red Tour for a more structured visit with expert insights.
Our Tip: Pasabag Monks Valley is one of Cappadocia’s most Instagrammable locations—visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds!
Which Pasabag Monks Valley Option Should You Choose?
✔ On a budget? → Visit independently for free.
✔ Want a fully guided Cappadocia experience? → Join the Cappadocia Red Tour.
Our Pasabag Monks Valley Experience
Visiting Pasabag Monks Valley was one of the highlights of our trip to Cappadocia.
Known for its iconic fairy chimney formations, this valley offers a stunning natural landscape, an insight into the region’s monastic history, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Exploring Pasabag Monks Valley
Pasabag is home to some of the most striking fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, many of which are tall, mushroom-shaped rock formations.
These tuff structures were shaped over thousands of years by wind and water erosion, creating one of the most surreal landscapes in Turkey.
✔ Walking Among the Fairy Chimneys – As soon as you enter, a wide walking trail leads through the valley, allowing you to get up close to the formations and even step inside some of the cave dwellings.
✔ Saint Simeon’s Chapel – The three-capped fairy chimney at the heart of the valley was once a place of retreat for the Christian monk Saint Simeon, who lived here in seclusion for 15 years.
✔ Rock-Cut Churches & Monasteries – The valley was used as a spiritual retreat for monks and priests, and you can still see the remains of small churches, chapels, and monastic cells.
✔ Tunnels & Mills – As you explore further, you’ll find remnants of ancient tunnel systems and grinding mills, which were used by the valley’s early inhabitants.
Tip: Pasabag is one of the best places in Cappadocia for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light creates dramatic shadows on the rock formations.
What to Eat?
At the entrance of the valley, there is a small market where visitors can grab snacks and drinks.
✔ Try the local pancakes (gözleme) – A freshly made Turkish flatbread with cheese, potatoes, or spinach filling.
✔ Enjoy traditional Turkish tea while admiring the fairy chimney landscape.
✔ Buy cold drinks and small appetizers before starting your walk through the valley.
Shopping in Pasabag Monks Valley
A small bazaar at the entrance offers a range of local handicrafts and souvenirs, including:
✔ Handmade woven rugs, towels, and bags
✔ Miniature fairy chimney sculptures
✔ Cappadocian stone carvings and magnets
✔ Locally crafted jewelry and ceramics
Tip: If you’re looking for unique gifts, this is a great place to support local artisans and traders.
Visitor Information
Location
Pasabag Monks Valley is located 4 km from Göreme and 1 km from Zelve Valley Open Air Museum.
It is one of the most famous and picturesque sites in Cappadocia, known for its mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and ancient monk dwellings carved into the rocks. View on Google Maps
⏰ Opening Hours
Summer (April 1 – October 31): 08:00 AM – 07:00 PM (Last entry: 06:30 PM)
Winter (November 1 – March 31): 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM (Last entry: 04:30 PM)
❌ Closed on religious holidays until 01:00 PM
Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds and capture the best lighting for photos.
️ Tickets
✔ Entrance Fee: Around €12 together with Zelve
✔ Included in Cappadocia Red Tour
✔ No additional cost if visiting independently
* Please double check the hours and admissions from muze.gov.tr
Visiting Tips
✔ Wear comfortable shoes – The area has sandy and rocky terrain, and some paths can be slippery.
✔ Visit early or late afternoon – Midday can be crowded, as Pasabag is one of Cappadocia’s most famous photo spots.
✔ Climb the fairy chimneys – Some rock formations have stairs carved into them, allowing visitors to explore ancient monk dwellings inside.
✔ Explore beyond the main area – Many visitors stick to the first few fairy chimneys, but if you walk further, you’ll find quieter spots with stunning views.
✔ Look for the Three-Headed Fairy Chimney – This is one of the most photographed rock formations in Cappadocia.
♿ Accessibility
✔ The main walking areas are relatively flat, making it one of the more accessible sites in Cappadocia.
✔ No ramps or elevators—climbing into the rock-cut dwellings requires stairs and some uneven footing.
Tip: If mobility is a concern, stick to the lower areas, which still offer fantastic views of the fairy chimneys.
️ Nearby Attractions
Pasabag Monks Valley is located near several must-visit sites, making it easy to combine with other Cappadocia highlights:
✔ Zelve Open Air Museum – Just 1 km away, this historic site features cave churches, tunnels, and ancient dwellings.
✔ Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) – A short drive away, known for rock formations shaped like animals.
✔ Avanos Pottery Village – Visit a traditional pottery workshop and try your hand at making your own ceramic masterpiece.
✔ Goreme Open Air Museum – Home to some of the best-preserved Byzantine cave churches in Cappadocia.
✔ Uchisar Castle – One of the highest viewpoints in Cappadocia, offering a stunning 360-degree panorama.
Tip: If you’re short on time, visiting Pasabag and Zelve together is the best option, as they’re right next to each other.
How to Get to Pasabag Monks Valley – Travel Tips
From Göreme (Closest Town)
✔ Pasabag is about 4 km from Göreme—you can walk, take a taxi, or rent a scooter to reach it.
From Ürgüp or Avanos
✔ Take a local minibus (dolmuş) heading towards Zelve or Avanos and get off at Pasabag.
From Uçhisar or Nevşehir
✔ A quick taxi ride (15-20 minutes) will take you directly to the valley.
Tip: Renting a car or joining a guided tour is the easiest way to visit multiple sites in one day.
Have You Visited Pasabag Monks Valley?
These were our best tips and insights for visiting Pasabag Monks Valley.
Do you have questions about tickets, guided tours, or the best photo spots? Or have you already explored this magical fairy chimney valley and want to share your experience?
Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!
