13 Places on Earth With Seriously Otherworldly Scenery

7. The Surreal Beauty of Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale, meaning ‘Cotton Castle’ in Turkish, is a natural site in southwestern Turkey known for its terraces of carbonate minerals left by flowing thermal spring water. These terraces, with their pristine white formations, resemble a frozen waterfall cascading down the hillside. The mineral-rich waters have been revered for their healing properties since ancient times. The surreal beauty of Pamukkale, with its glistening pools and terraces, evokes the landscapes of icy planets and moons, where mineral deposits create intricate patterns. This UNESCO World Heritage Site continues to attract visitors seeking both its therapeutic waters and its otherworldly charm.