Balkanabat - Discovering Turkmenistan

Travelling to Balkanabat

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Balkanabat, 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 Balkanabat 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 Balkanabat, 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 Balkanabat for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Balkanabat

Balkanabat is a city located in the Balkan region of Turkmenistan. It is the capital of the Balkan Province and has a population of approximately 100,000 people. The city is known for its natural gas reserves and the famous Turkmenbashi Complex, which includes a mosque, palace, and cultural center. Balkanabat also has a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the region, as well as several parks and gardens. The climate in Balkanabat is hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C in the summer and 0°C to 15°C in the winter.

What to visit in Balkanabat

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Balkanabat, Turkmenistan with brief details: 1. Yangykala Canyon: Located about 160km from Balkanabat, Yangykala Canyon is a unique natural wonder with colorful rock formations resembling a grand castle. It is a popular spot for hiking and camping, and visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views from the top.
2. Kugitang Nature Reserve: A protected area with diverse flora and fauna, Kugitang Nature Reserve is home to several endangered species and a range of geologic features. Visitors may observe the ancient remains of dinosaur footprints, explore crystal-clear lakes, and indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
3. Gozli Ata Pilgrimage Site: A popular site for pilgrims and visitors alike, Gozli Ata is the tomb of a revered Sufi saint who lived in the 14th century. The mausoleum is adorned with colorful mosaics and ornate carvings, and visitors can stroll around the peaceful gardens.
4. Nebit Dag: Nebit Dag is a volcanic mountain that is famous for its petroglyphs. The area is adorned with ancient rock carvings and paintings that date back to over 5000 years ago. Visitors to this area can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and learn about the local cultural history.
5. Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque: The largest mosque in Turkmenistan, Turkmenbashi Ruhy is a grand architectural wonder with stunning golden domes and a beautiful light-filled interior. The mosque can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers at a time and is a must-visit for those interested in Islamic architecture.
These are just a few of the many wonderful attractions that Balkanabat has to offer. I hope this helps!
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 Balkanabat.

When to go on holiday to Balkanabat

The best time to visit Balkanabat, Turkmenistan is during the months of April to May and September to November. These months offer comfortable temperatures ranging from 20-30°C with lower humidity levels, making for a more pleasant overall experience. The summer months can be very hot in Balkanabat, with average temperatures reaching over 40°C, so it might be better to avoid visiting during this time if possible. Additionally, the winter months can bring snow and colder temperatures, which may not be ideal for outdoor activities. Therefore, it is best to plan your visit around the spring and fall months to make the most of your trip to Balkanabat.

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

How to get to Balkanabat

Balkanabat, also known as Nebitdag, is a city located in Turkmenistan's Balkan Province. Here's how you can get to Balkanabat: 1. By Air: Balkanabat has its own airport, Balkanabat International Airport. The airport has daily flights from Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan. So, you can take a flight to Ashgabat and then take a connecting flight to Balkanabat.
2. By Road: Balkanabat is well-connected by road with other major cities in Turkmenistan. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Ashgabat, Mary, Turkmenbashi, or other cities to get to Balkanabat.
3. By Train: The city is also connected by rail with other major cities in Turkmenistan. You can take a train from Ashgabat, Mary or Turkmenbashi to get to Balkanabat.
Make sure to check the transportation schedules, availability, and travel restrictions before planning your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Balkanabat, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Balkanabat

Here are some typical foods of Balkanabat in Turkmenistan: 1. Manty - A steamed dumpling filled with ground lamb or beef, onions, and sometimes pumpkin. It is typically served with a yogurt or sour cream sauce.
2. Plov - A rice dish cooked with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and other vegetables. It is usually seasoned with cumin, black pepper, and other spices.
3. Shashlyk - Grilled skewered meat (usually lamb or beef) marinated in vinegar, onions, and spices. It is often served with flatbread and tomato and cucumber salad.
4. Lagman - A noodle soup made with beef or lamb, peppers, onions, carrots, tomatoes, and other vegetables. It is typically flavored with cumin and chili peppers.
5. Samsa - A pastry filled with meat, onions, and sometimes pumpkin or potatoes. It is usually baked until golden brown and served hot.
6. Chak-chak - A sweet dessert made from flour, honey, and butter. The flour and honey mixture is formed into small balls and then deep-fried until crispy.
7. Halva - A sweet, dense confection made from ground sesame seeds and sugar. It is typically served with tea or as a dessert after a meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkmenistan here.

Is Balkanabat an expensive destination for tourists?

Balkanabat, Turkmenistan is generally considered an expensive destination for tourists due to its limited tourism industry and scarcity of tourist facilities. The costs associated with travel, accommodation, and dining in this remote location may be higher than in other destinations in the region. However, the prices can vary greatly depending on the time of year, the type of accommodations, the mode of transportation, and the activities selected. It is recommended to research and plan your trip to Balkanabat carefully to manage your budget effectively.

Where to find accomodation in Balkanabat

Balkanabat is located in the Balkan province of Turkmenistan and there are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Balkanabat. Some popular areas include the city center, which has a range of hotels, guesthouses and budget accommodation options, as well as the outskirts of the city which offer more rural and scenic accommodations. Other areas to consider include the Turkmenbashi city, Ekerem, and Gizyrdag. Ultimately, the best area for you to stay will depend on your travel preferences, budget, and the specific attractions or activities you plan to explore in and around Balkanabat.
You can check hotel prices at Balkanabat here:
Booking.com

Is Balkanabat a safe destination for tourists?

Balkanabat, like most of Turkmenistan, is generally considered safe for tourists. However, there are some potential risks and safety concerns that travelers should be aware of, such as the strict laws and regulations enforced by the government and limited transportation options outside of major cities.
It's always a good idea to research and understand the cultural norms and laws of the country beforehand and to stay informed about any potential safety concerns or travel advisories. It's also recommended to travel with a reputable tour operator and to remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
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 Balkanabat.

What type of travelers will enjoy Balkanabat the most?

Balkanabat, located in western Turkmenistan, is a small town that offers a blend of traditional Turkmen culture, ancient history, and modern architecture. Based on my research, I believe that the town will appeal more to history and culture enthusiasts and not much for young people looking for fun.
Families with kids might find the town a little quiet since it doesn't have many activities or attractions geared towards children. On the other hand, couples and solo travelers who are interested in visiting historical sites, such as the ancient city of Misrian, or exploring the surrounding desert landscapes, might really enjoy Balkanabat.
But if you are a tourist who likes to party and have fun, Balkanabat might not be your ideal destination. Instead, you might want to consider other places in Turkmenistan, like Ashgabat, which have more entertainment, food, and nightlife options.

How to get around Balkanabat

The most common transportation used to move around Balkanabat, Turkmenistan is either walking or using a taxi. There is also a small public transportation system with buses and minibusses that operate on specific routes in the city, but they can be crowded and not always reliable. It's advisable to negotiate taxi fares in advance and confirm the price before starting the journey. Additionally, many travelers choose to rent a car with a driver to explore the city and the surrounding areas.

What to see around Balkanabat

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Balkanabat in Turkmenistan: 1. Gyzylarbat – This charming old town is located about 35 km from Balkanabat and boasts interesting museums and historic sites.
2. Yangykala Canyon – This beautiful natural landmark features stunning rock formations and is located about two hours’ drive from Balkanabat.
3. Gozli Ata – This mausoleum is situated about an hour from Balkanabat and is considered an important pilgrimage site in the region.
4. Hazar Nature Reserve – This wildlife sanctuary is located about two hours’ drive from Balkanabat and offers visitors the chance to see a variety of rare and exotic animals.
5. Mari State Nature Reserve – This protected natural area is home to a wide range of flora and fauna including wild boars, foxes, and various bird species. It is located about 80 km from Balkanabat.
For every travel information about Turkmenistan you can click here.

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