Guess who landed on the truck?

2013-09-24

When the pilot of our hot air balloon said, he is going to land on the truck, we thought he was joking. But, we found out he was not joking at all and the balloon actually did land on the truck. It was totally amazing to see how accurately he was able to manure the balloon. The ride over Cappadocia was spectacular to say the least. Pictures can show you the glimpse of what you see here.

Hot Air Balloons

In the Hot Air Balloon Basket:  Truck Landing

Cappadocia is unique both geologically and  historically. The Peri ( fairy) structure as well as the caves and other formations are formed over millions of years. The area is surrounded by three volcanoes and ( as over guide put it) the eruption provided the material and erosion sculpted the formations. The rocks are made of soft volcanic stones ( called Tufa in Turkish) and some have natural caves, others are man made.

Underground Cave Homes

Historically, the central Turkish area was the cross road for all the merchants as well as the armies going west to east or east to west for at least last 6000 years. This had many advantages but also was always in the path of the soldiers and hence prone to looting and other issues. To protect themselves and their belongings, local people had devised this elaborate system of underground dwellings using the natural formations and soft stones. It is also said that , these were originally developed as the resting place for soldiers.

Cave Homes

Hike Views



Rock Family

It is impossible to describe these dwellings and formations in words. Few pictures are attached. Basically, the caves were up to 350 feet underground ( seven stories) and could shelter up to 1000 people for several months. There were underground tunnels leading to kitchen, living and other areas and places to store food and other belongings.

Our Hotel

Pigeon Homes

We toured one such cave system. The place was overrun by very rude and large German tourist group ( 50+ people) and many more behind them. I was very glad when our guide decides to get us out of there but we saw the main part. Turkey ( specially this area) is a major destination for European tour groups. We also ran into individual tourists, one of them, a girl from UC Berkeley - Very nice and politeJ

Newborns

Vadi Hike to Cavehomes

Us

That is it for today. I think the pictures tell more than what I can say in words but this a definitely a unique place in Geography as well as History.  I will write mote tomorrow…Insha Allah