Ashgabat - Discovering Turkmenistan

Travelling to Ashgabat

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ashgabat, a pretty good destination in Turkmenistan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ashgabat and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ashgabat, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkmenistan, here's everything to know about Ashgabat for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ashgabat

Ashgabat is the capital and largest city of Turkmenistan, located in the southern part of the country. It has a population of approximately 1 million people. The city is known for its impressive architecture featuring marble buildings and monuments, as well as its numerous parks and gardens. Ashgabat is a cultural and economic center of Turkmenistan, with a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is also a popular tourist destination, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the country's unique culture and traditions.

What to visit in Ashgabat

Sure, here are some of the main tourist attractions in Ashgabat, along with some information about each one: 1. Independence Monument - This is a towering structure located in the city center that was built to commemorate Turkmenistan's independence from the Soviet Union.
2. Turkmen Carpet Museum - This museum showcases some of the country's most beautiful and intricate handmade carpets, including the world's largest hand-woven carpet.
3. Ashgabat National Museum of History - This museum has a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Turkmenistan's history, from ancient times to the present day.
4. Ashgabat Arch of Neutrality - This is a tall tower with a golden statue of Turkmenistan's first president on top, and it represents the country's policy of neutrality.
5. Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque - This mosque is the largest in Turkmenistan and is known for its beautiful and intricate design, with four towering minarets.
6. Park of Independence and Neutralit - This large park is a popular place for locals to relax and enjoy the outdoors, with many green spaces, a large fountain, and a small amusement park.
7. Ashgabat Ferris Wheel - This Ferris wheel provides a great view of the city from above, and it is especially beautiful at night when the city is lit up.
Overall, Ashgabat is a city with plenty of interesting and unique tourist attractions that showcase the culture and history of Turkmenistan.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkmenistan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ashgabat.

When to go on holiday to Ashgabat

The best time to visit Ashgabat is during the spring and fall months (April through May and September through October). During these periods, the weather is mild, pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities. It's also an ideal time to explore the city's many landmarks, such as the Turkmenbashi Palace, Turkmen Carpet Museum, and the Ashgabat National Museum of History, among other attractions. However, keep in mind that the summer months can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching over 100°F (38°C) in some areas. The winter months from November through February can also be cold and may have occasional snow, so it's probably best to avoid planning your trip during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ashgabat

There are several ways to get to Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan. Here are some of the options: 1. By air: The easiest and most common way to reach Ashgabat is by flying into the Ashgabat International Airport, which is located about 10 kilometers from the city center. You can check with major international airlines like Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa, Air Astana, and flydubai, among others, that offer flights to Ashgabat.
2. By train: Ashgabat is connected to other major cities in Turkmenistan and neighboring countries like Iran, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan by a rail network. You can take a train from these countries to Ashgabat. Trains in Turkmenistan are relatively cheap and well-maintained.
3. By road: If you're travelling from neighboring countries, you can also enter Turkmenistan by road. However, most of the roads in Turkmenistan are not in good condition, and it can be quite challenging to travel by car.
4. By sea: If you're planning to travel to Turkmenistan by sea, then you'll have to disembark at the Turkmenbashi Seaport, which is located on the Caspian Sea. From here, you can take a ferry or a bus to reach Ashgabat.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ashgabat, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ashgabat

Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan, offers a delightful experience to its visitors with its delicious native cuisine. Below are some typical foods in Ashgabat with a short description for each: 1. Plov - It is a dish made of rice, lamb, and vegetables like onions, carrots, and raisins, sometimes flavored with cumin, coriander, and served hot.
2. Manty - This is a dish of steamed dumplings filled with minced lamb or beef, onions, and sometimes pumpkin, served with sour cream on top.
3. Shashlyk - It is a skewered meat dish made of lamb, marinated in onions, pomegranate juice, and other spices, cooked over a charcoal grill, and served with bread.
4. Shurpa - This is a hearty soup with lamb, potatoes, carrots, onions, tomatoes, and other vegetables, flavored with cumin, coriander, and garlic.
5. Eshlek - It is a dish made of sour milk, beaten eggs, and chopped onions, sometimes with herbs, and sometimes with noodles added.
6. Chorek - This is a kind of flatbread, similar to Indian naan, made of yeast, flour, water, and salt, sometimes sprinkled with sesame seeds, and served with various dishes.
7. Chal - This is a traditional Turkmen bread made of unleavened dough, cooked in a cast-iron skillet, and commonly eaten with tea.
These dishes are just a few examples of Ashgabat's rich and flavorful cuisine. There are many other hearty and delicious meals to try in the city, such as Gyzyl shorva, Kepderi, and Chak-chak.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkmenistan here.

Is Ashgabat an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Ashgabat is generally considered an expensive destination for tourists due to the cost of living, limited tourist infrastructure, and the lack of competition among businesses. The city is also known for its luxury hotels and high-end restaurants, which can add to the overall cost of a trip. However, there are some budget-friendly options for accommodation and dining as well. It's important to research and plan ahead to make the most of your budget while visiting Ashgabat.

Where to find accomodation in Ashgabat

It is best to find accommodations in the city center or around Independence Square when visiting Ashgabat. Some of the popular areas to stay in Ashgabat include the Choganly and Berkarar shopping areas, the Archabil neighborhood, and the downtown area around the Kopetdag Mountains. These areas offer convenient access to major tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops. Additionally, many of the upscale hotels are located in the city center and offer great views of Ashgabat's skyline.
You can check hotel prices at Ashgabat here:
Booking.com

Is Ashgabat a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ashgabat is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Turkmenistan is low and the government takes security very seriously. However, as with any destination, tourists should still take precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding unlit areas at night, and securing their valuables. It is also important to respect local customs and traditions while traveling in Turkmenistan.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkmenistan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ashgabat.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ashgabat the most?

Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, is an interesting destination that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. Here are some suggestions based on the interests of each type of traveler: 1. Couples: Ashgabat is an ideal place for couples who enjoy history, architecture, and culture. They can explore the city's impressive monuments, museums, and traditional markets. Couples can also enjoy the stunning views of the city from Nisa Archaeological Site or the Wedding Palace.
2. Young people: Ashgabat may not offer a wild nightlife scene, but it has a unique cultural experience to offer. Young people can enjoy the public fountains, parks, and Ice Palace, where they can go ice-skating and watch hockey matches. Some young people may also enjoy exploring the city's local cuisine and street markets.
3. Families: Ashgabat offers several family-friendly attractions, including the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, the Alem Cultural and Entertainment Center, and the Botanical Garden. Families can have fun exploring the city's impressive parks with their children, enjoying performances at the State Circus, and learning about the local history and culture at the National Museum.
Overall, Ashgabat is a place that offers a unique experience to any type of traveler, regardless of interests and ages.

How to get around Ashgabat

In Ashgabat, the most common methods of transportation include buses, taxis, and private cars. Buses are usually cheap and operate on fixed routes, while taxis are more flexible but can be more expensive. Private cars can be rented or hired with a driver and offer the most convenience, especially for exploring the city outskirts or outside of Ashgabat. Bicycle rentals are also available in some areas of Ashgabat.

What to see around Ashgabat

Sure, here are some great places to visit in a day trip from Ashgabat in Turkmenistan: 1. Nissa: an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage site 2. Kow Ata: a stunning underground lake with warm saline water 3. Darvaza Gas Crater: also known as the "Door to Hell," a natural gas fire that has been burning for decades 4. Geok Tepe: a historical battlefield where a fierce battle was fought between Russian and Turkmen forces in 1881 5. Kov-Ata Canyon: a canyon with picturesque views and rock formations 6. Yangykala Canyon: known for its colorful rocks and stunning landscapes 7. Konye Urgench: a historical city and UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a major center of Islamic learning and culture.
These are just a few options for day trips from Ashgabat. Each of these destinations has unique attractions that make it worth a visit.
For every travel information about Turkmenistan you can click here.

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