The Health Tourism Boost from Ballıca Cave in Tokat
The Ballıca Cave in Tokat’s Pazar district is not only a natural wonder, but it also contributes to the city’s health tourism. Located on a hill at an altitude of 1085 meters in Ballıca village, 26 kilometers from Tokat city center, the cave has become a popular destination for visitors.
The cave is home to interesting stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years. With 8 galleries open to visitors, Ballıca Cave was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List in 2019, adding to its allure.
After being closed for environmental planning works, the cave reopened to visitors and continues to attract tourists, including those seeking health benefits. Asthma patients are among those who visit the cave, taking advantage of its unique air quality. The area around the cave has been developed to include a cafe, rest terrace, toilets, and parking, with plans for bungalow houses to offer accommodation in the near future.
Visitors can explore the 680 meters of the cave that are currently open, reaching a depth of 75 meters. The temperature inside the cave remains consistent at 17 to 24 degrees, with humidity levels between 40 and 80 percent. The filtered oxygen and absence of pollen and dust make the cave air feel different to visitors.
Mehmet Ülkü, a cave field guide, highlighted the unique formations found within Ballıca Cave, describing it as rich in diverse karst features. One of the cave’s distinctive features is its onion stalactites, setting it apart from other caves around the world.
Tokat Governor Numan Hatipoğlu emphasized the importance of Ballıca Cave as a tourism destination, particularly for those seeking natural remedies for health conditions. A renovation and construction project around the cave is set to further enhance the visitor experience, making it one of Tokat’s key attractions.
With its rich history and unique natural formations, Ballıca Cave continues to be a significant draw for both daily and long-term visitors, contributing to Tokat’s growing reputation as a destination for health tourism.
