Cappadocia's hot air balloons attract 437,500 tourists

By Behcet Alkan

NEVSEHIR, Turkey (AA) - A total of 437,516 tourists enjoyed hot air balloon tours in Turkey’s charming touristic hub Cappadocia between January and September, according to data compiled by Anadolu Agency.

Cappadocia, listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage places, is famous with its distinctive plateau, valleys, hills, unique fairy chimney volcanic cones, colorful frescos covering underground cities, boutique hotels, houses carved into rocks, rock churches, chapels, and shelters used by early Christians.

The hot balloon ride floating over the skies of Cappadocia for one hour costs €170-200 ($186-220) per person.

The tours generated €78 million ($86 million) revenue in the first nine months of this year, data showed.