Pamukkale

The turks named Pamukkale as Cotton Castles.

Many travelled from far to watch at this UNESCO heritage spot famous for these Hellenistic Spa thermal ponds and healing waters.

Again of Greco-Roman heritage, the ancient ruins are but a reminder of past glories and activities. 

Ruined through the ages, Hierapolis is now but a stamp of its past.

\

 We trudged through the stone-laden pathways but it was not too difficult a chore.

The calcite-laden waters create a landscape that is unique and from afar has the 'cotton castle' depiction.

Naturally formed through the calcium deposits throughout centuries, the landscape is panoramic and majestic. The pockets of water are centres of healing for the sick, so we were informed.

You can feel the 'softness' of the deposits; just like cotton.

We witness many seeking to soak their limbs in the warm water and many must have prayed for healing .

 In fact, I personally witnessed an old Malaysian Indian lady aided by her children limped to the thermal pond apparently hoping for healing.

Dad actually said that he felt prickly sensations all over his limbs as he went under the water and wondered why.

Esther had some sensations too.

Sara said there was none.

Me? I did not go in.

That was playing, soaking an healing.

Dad will do all sorts with his girls.

The mother will just watch.

Even friends on the trip whom we met for the first time knew the different roles the parents perform. The father is the entertainer whereas the mother is the disciplinarian. Oh well...someone has to handle the bad role.

So Pamukkale was a thermal centre where the hot springs add unforgettable experience to the tourists like us.

It was nevertheless a landscape of its kind for us.

Later we found out the Richmond hotel we stayed for the night was also giving free thermal bath because of the nearby supply of hot water.

 Hierapolis was truly different,