Southwest Cappadocia feels enchanted: fairy chimneys, honeyed cliffs and sculpted rock. Stroll Pigeon Valley’s alcoves, climb Selime’s cavern chapels, wander Ihlara’s green canyon and descend the Underground City’s secret chambers.

Dambulla, in central Sri Lanka near Sigiriya, charms visitors with the towering Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the wonderfully preserved Dambulla Cave Temple complex — both rewarding climbs.