Pasabag Monks Valley Cappadocia (Where? Tickets + Advice)

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.

Top Facts

People also call Pasabag “The Monks Valley.” It is a one-of-a-kind place in Cappadocia, known for its strange rock formations and long past. You might find these interesting facts about Pasabag Monks Valley:

• The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rock Sites of Cappadocia and the Pasabag Monks Valley are both in the same area.
• People know Pasabag Monks Valley for its strange rock shapes, which are sometimes called “fairy chimneys.” The shapes were made by volcanoes erupting and the land wearing away over time.
• In the Byzantine era, monks lived in the rock-cut rooms in the valley, which is where the name “Monks Valley” comes from.
• People have been growing grapes and making wine in this valley since the time of the Hittites. Some of the vines can still be seen in the valley.
• People who go to Pasabag Monks Valley can look at the rocks, hike along the trails in the valley, and see the small church in the middle of the valley.
• St. Simeon was known for living a simple life and sleeping in a small cell on top of a pillar. The church in the valley is dedicated to him. Two thousand years ago, people built the church. It is one of the oldest buildings in the valley.
• Many people like to take pictures, and Pasabag Monks Valley is one of the most photographed places in Cappadocia. The beautiful views and unique rock formations make for some great pictures.
• Along with the rock structures, the valley has a number of cafes and gift shops where you can find one-of-a-kind items to take home.

People who go to Pasabag Monks Valley can see some really cool rock formations, learn about the history of the valley, and take in some beautiful views of the Cappadocia area.

Quick History

Amazing rock shapes in the valley are said to look like mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys. Early Christians lived in Pasabag, and monks have used the valley for religious reasons for hundreds of years.

During the time of the Byzantine Empire, monks who were fleeing religious persecution came to the valley and built homes and churches in the soft tuff rock formations. Up in the valley, the monks also built a small church that you can still see today. With frescoes that show the life of St. Simeon and other Christian figures, the chapel is decorated.

According to legend, a Persian general once stayed in the valley and enjoyed the beautiful scenery, which is where the name “Pasabag” comes from. “Paşa” means “general” or “leader,” and “bağ” means “garden.”

Beyond its historical and cultural importance, Pasabag is also famous for its stunning nature views. Walkers can explore the valley by going up and around the interesting rock formations and taking in the views of the nearby landscape and the pretty vineyards that line the valley floor.

Things to Do & See

Those who come visit Cappadocia mostly go to Pasabag Valley to see the best fairy chimney formations. The formations that once used as a seclusion place for the Monks, are now a very attractive tourist zone in Cappadocia.

One of the best activities in the valley is to enjoy the nature and unique beauties by walking among the fairy chimneys. The valley, which was used as a retreat by the priests and monks during its period, includes many rock-cut monasteries, churches, chapels and settlements, as well as tunnels and mills.

Fairy chimneys, which are formed by the strong wind and precipitation from the slopes of the valley and the flood waters eroding such tuff structures of the region, have a mushroom-like appearance in this region.

When you enter the valley, you will see a big walking track and you may enjoy the beautiful scenery with loads of fairy chimneys spread through.

The three capped fairy chimney situated at the center of the valley is the famous fairy chimney chapel where Saint Simeon has lived there in seclusion for 15 years.

What to Eat?

There is a small market at the entrance of the valley, that visitors can buy some appetizers or drinks from the local artisans and taste the pancakes loved by everyone here.

Shopping

You can find many souvenirs in the small bazaar at the entrance of the valley. Handmade towels, woven rugs, carpets and bags, as well as miniatures of the region’s famous fairy chimneys, stone sculptures and magnets can be a good gift option. If you want to support the local tradesmen and buy small gifts for your loved ones and relatives, this tiny market is for you.

Visiting Hours & Admissions

Opening Hours

Open every day between 08:00-17:00

Ticket Price

* €12 at ticket window on location

* Please double check the hours and admissions from muze.gov.tr 

Best Sightseeing Tours to See Pasabag Monks Valley

Private Cappadocia Tours

Private Cappadocia Tours are the most preferred daily excursions in Cappadocia, as well as the best way to explore and enjoy Cappadocia within a well-planned and custom itinerary along with a private vehicle, driver and professional guide.

We recommend the below tour options for the great value for money.

Wanna learn more about Private Tours in Cappadocia?

More Info & Private Cappadocia Tour Booking

The Red Tour

The Red Tour is the most popular tour in Cappadocia, and it covers the highlights of the region. A popular way to explore this fascinating destination is by taking one of the many sightseeing tours available, such as the Cappadocia Red Tour.

It is a full-day tour, usually starting at 9 am and ending at 5 pm. The tour covers popular attractions such as Goreme Open Air Museum, Pasabag, Devrent Valley, Love Valley, and Avanos. The tour also includes a visit to a pottery factory where you can see how the famous Cappadocian pottery is made.

Good for: The Cappadocia Red Tour is a great option for those who want to see the top sights of Cappadocia in a convenient and informative way, and in a single day. Below are some of best Red Tour experiences you can find!

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

More Info & Booking Red Tour

How to Get There?

Pasabag Valley is situated between Avanos and Goreme on the road to Zelve Valley. There is a parking area with souvenir shops and cafes at the entrance. About;

• 4,6 km. from Avanos
• 5,7 km. from Goreme
• 10,2 km. from Uchisar
• 11,2 km. from Urgup

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