Pigeon Valley

One of the must-see places in Cappadocia, Pigeon valley, is a magnificent route with its unique nature and structures. Throughout the year, millions of foreign tourists visit this valley, where you can witness an extraordinary view of colorful balloons soaring in the sky. It’s worth noting that Cappadocia is not only located in the Nevşehir region; it spans a much larger area, including Niğde, Aksaray, Kırsehir, and Kayseri.

Among the places to visit in Cappadocia, you can list famous fairy chimneys along with the Snake church, Özkonak underground city, Belisırma village, Zelve valley, and Derinkuyu underground city. Pigeon valley, one of the most beautiful places, has taken its name from the numerous pigeons that inhabit the region. The valley in Uçhisar is also one of the best locations for fairy chimneys. Activities you can enjoy in this valley include taking photos with the nazar boncuk (evil eye bead) tree, resting a bit where large buses are parked before entering the valley, and then embarking on a long walk through the valley to Göreme. In the rest of our writing, you can find detailed information about Pigeon valley route, entrance fee, directions, and the nazar boncuk tree.

As mentioned, Pigeon valley is one of the most beautiful places in Cappadocia. Historically, this region holds significance, situated between Göreme and Uchisar. According to a legend, pigeon breeding began in this area in the early 9th century. Later, the people living in the region turned to grape cultivation, discovering the importance of pigeon droppings in enhancing agricultural productivity. Consequently, numerous carved nests and settlements were established in the valley for agricultural workers to increase efficiency.

Throughout history, pigeon droppings were also used to color church walls. This fertilizer was chosen not only to enhance frescoes but also to preserve pattern colors. Therefore, the historical journey of Pigeon valley began in the 9th century, and the significance attributed to pigeons originated from this period.

The valley begins from Uchisar. It forms a natural walking area that connects Göreme and Uchisar. When entering Uchisar from the direction of Ürgüp, you’ll encounter the entry point of the valley even before reaching the town center of Uchisar. If you are coming from Göreme to Uchisar, it is about 100 meters after entering the road to Urgüp, just past the municipality building and Uçhisar bazaar. The entrance area is quite spacious, and it’s common to see several buses parked there.

To reach Pigeon valley, you can follow Adnan menderes Avenue on the Nevsehir-Ürgüp road. By progressing on this road, you will reach the valley located just to the right of Uchisar castle. There are two different routes to reach the valley: one from Göreme and the other from the center of Uçhisar, descending towards the valley. However, those who prefer to go from Göreme will need to navigate uphill and continue along paths that descend. For a simpler and easier route to the valley, especially for those with hiking experience, you can proceed from the Uçhisar side.

There are some important points to know about accessing this valley. First of all, there are two different blind branches in the valley. To ensure a comfortable visit, visitors can simply follow the areas marked in red. Also, don’t forget that at these points, you will witness some of the most beautiful natural landscapes along the valley.

Guvercinlik Valley Places to visit

Pigeon valley is home to numerous attractions, making it a remarkable destination among the historical sites in Cappadocia. From underground cities and churches to rock-cut tombs, this valley stands out as a beautiful region in Turkey that should not be missed. The famous fairy chimneys, always sought after by tourists, can be splendidly observed from this valley.

For those interested in taking a historical walk, it’s essential to note that Pigeon valley offers an immersive experience with nature. The valley is particularly popular in spring, allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant flora. However, even in winter, the region welcomes tourists with a stunning snowscape. While exploring the valley, you can also observe small orchards besides the fertilizers used by agricultural workers.

Among the notable places to visit in Pigeon valley is the Tığraz underground Shelter, which serves as the second-largest castle in the Uchisar region. With its seven floors containing rooms, cellars, storerooms, and tunnels, this castle promises an exciting exploration. Continuing the journey from the castle, you can reach Uçhisar Fountain and later the bulgur mill.

As you progress from Pigeon valley towards Göreme, on the left side of the road, you’ll encounter Karakale and Sarıuşak fairy chimneys, offering some of the most beautiful views in Cappadocia. Additionally, by following this route, you can reach the first neighborhood fountain of the Uchisar district, Lower District Fountain.

When wandering through the valley, it’s worth providing some recommendations for meals. The most famous local dishes in the region are pottery kebab and tandır. These meals, prepared using stone tables in restaurants established by carving the mountains, offer a unique culinary experience. Moreover, this region is renowned for its wines, and trying the local varieties should not be missed.

Güvercinlik valley Uçhisar 4K Youtube Watch

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heivkN_DVJg&t=18s

Where is Pigeon Valley Map

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pigeon_Valley

Pigeon Guvercinlik Valley Photo