Pasabag Valley

Pasabag Valley, approximately 10 kilometers from Goreme, is characterized by its towering fairy chimneys, some reaching up to 40 meters in height. The valley earned its nickname "Monks Valley" from the hermit monks who lived in its caves during the early Christian era. A 14-minute drive from Goreme, the valley boasts numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels.

These trails provide opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as wild horses and ibexes, and to explore other natural and historical sites within the valley. For those seeking a more rugged adventure, jeep tours are available. These tours navigate through remote areas of the Valley. The dwellings and chapels in the fairy chimneys were carved out by the monks. Some of these dwellings still bear traces of frescoes and intricate carvings.

Pasabag Valley holds significant historical and cultural value due to the influence of the early Christian monks who sought refuge in the region to escape persecution. Monks carved out elaborate dwellings and churches, adorned with intricate frescoes and religious iconography, many of which can be seen today at the nearby Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site.