Tagta - Discovering Turkmenistan

Travelling to Tagta

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

General info for a trip to Tagta

Tagta is a small village located in the Balkan Province of Turkmenistan. It has a population of around 3,000 people and is situated near the Caspian Sea coast. The village is known for its production of salt and fishing industry, and it is also a popular spot for bird-watching due to its location on the migratory route for many species of birds. The town has a market, a mosque, and a school, but otherwise is primarily a rural area. Visitors can enjoy the serene setting of the village as well as take a boat ride on the Caspian Sea or bird watching in the surrounding wetlands.

What to visit in Tagta

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Tagta, Turkmenistan along with some information about them: 1. Köw Ata Underground Lake - It is a unique geological formation consisting of a massive underground limestone cavern filled with warm mineral water. Visitors can take a dip in the lake's therapeutic waters.
2. Darvaza Gas Crater - A natural gas crater that has been burning for over 40 years, popularly known as the "Door to Hell". It is an incredible sight to behold, especially at night.
3. Ashgabat - The capital city of Turkmenistan is known for its grand architecture, especially its large white marble buildings. It also has several museums and historic sites worth checking out.
4. Yangykala Canyons - A stunning natural formation with vibrant red and orange rock formations carved by erosion. This place is great for scenic hikes and photography.
5. Nisa - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient city of Nisa was the capital of the Parthian Empire and is now a partly restored archaeological site with ruins and tombs.
6. Köneürgench - Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient city was once a major center of Islamic scholarship and art. It now contains several historic buildings and monuments, including mausoleums and mosques.
7. Koytendag Mountains - Located east of Ashgabat, this mountain range offers beautiful hiking and trekking opportunities, along with gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
That's it! 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 Tagta.

When to go on holiday to Tagta

The best time to visit Tagta, Turkmenistan is from April to June and from September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable. During these months the temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, and there is less rainfall. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower hotel rates, the off-season months between December and March can also be a good time to visit. However, be aware that temperatures can drop below freezing during this time. The summer months (July-August) are very hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C, and it is not recommended to travel then.

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

How to get to Tagta

Tagta is a small village in Turkmenistan that is located in the Balkan province. The easiest way to get there is by taking a flight into the nearest city, which is Balkanabat Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Tagta. The total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
There are also train services available that connect Balkanabat to other major cities in Turkmenistan, such as Ashgabat and Mary. However, the train services are not as frequent or reliable as the flight services, so it may be best to check the schedules beforehand and plan accordingly.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tagta, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tagta

Here are some typical foods of Tagta, Turkmenistan with a short description for each: 1. Plov - A rice dish cooked with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and sometimes raisins or chickpeas. It is a staple food in Turkmenistan and is often served at weddings and other special occasions.
2. Manty - Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions. Manty is a popular street food in Turkmenistan and can be found in many markets and food stalls.
3. Shashlyk - Grilled meat skewers, usually made with lamb or beef, but sometimes with chicken or fish. Shashlyk is often marinated in spices and served with bread or vegetables.
4. Laghman - Noodle soup made with lamb or beef, vegetables, and spices. It is a hearty and filling dish that is popular in Turkmenistan, especially during the winter.
5. Bichaq - A pastry filled with minced meat and onions, similar to the Uzbek samsa or Indian samosa. Bichaq is a popular snack or breakfast food in Turkmenistan.
6. Chak-chak - Sweet fried dough balls served with honey or syrup. Chak-chak is a traditional dessert in Turkmenistan and is often served at weddings and other celebrations.
7. Gyzyl goz - A sweet pastry made with flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. It is shaped into small balls and baked in the oven. Gyzyl goz is a popular snack in Turkmenistan and is often served with tea.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkmenistan here.

Is Tagta an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Tagta, which is also known as Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, can be an expensive destination for tourists due to several reasons. Firstly, the cost of living is generally high in Turkmenistan, which makes everything from accommodation to food and transportation expensive. Additionally, the country heavily regulates and restricts tourism, making it difficult to find budget-friendly options for accommodation, transportation, and activities. Furthermore, the government imposes taxes and fees on foreign visitors, including a compulsory daily guide fee and visa costs. It is advisable to plan and budget carefully if you are considering traveling to Tagta.

Where to find accomodation in Tagta

There are no official accommodations in Tagta as it is an abandoned city. However, if you're planning to visit the nearby attractions such as Konye-Urgench, you could find accommodations in nearby towns such as Dashoguz or Mary. If you prefer to stay near the borders, you could try to find accommodations in the city of Bukhara in Uzbekistan or Darvaza in Turkmenistan.
You can check hotel prices at Tagta here:
Booking.com

Is Tagta a safe destination for tourists?

Tagta, which is located in Turkmenistan, is generally considered safe for tourists. The government of Turkmenistan takes measures to ensure the safety and security of visitors. However, it's always important to exercise caution while traveling to any destination and to stay aware of your surroundings. Make sure to check travel advisories and follow any safety guidelines issued by local authorities during your stay. Additionally, it's best to use licensed and reputable tour operators and have accommodations booked in advance.
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 Tagta.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tagta the most?

Tagta is a relatively new city located in the Kara-Kum desert of Turkmenistan, built to host the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in 2017. It is an interesting destination for travelers who are interested in sports, cultural events, and modern architectural design.
Tagta is suitable for couples and families who enjoy sports and cultural events. The stadium and other sports facilities in the city can be a great experience for sports lovers. Families with children can also enjoy the many parks, gardens, and playgrounds in Tagta.
Young people can find entertainment in the city's shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes. However, it is important to note that Tagta is a relatively new city and does not have a vibrant nightlife or party scene like other cities in Turkmenistan.
Overall, Tagta is a modern and impressive destination that caters to a wide range of interests.

How to get around Tagta

In Tagta, the most common mode of transportation is taxis. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi company. Additionally, buses and minibusses are available for transport within the city and to nearby towns. However, be aware that public transportation may not always be reliable or efficient. Some visitors may choose to rent a car or hire a private driver for added flexibility and convenience. It is important to note that driving in Turkmenistan can be challenging due to roads that are not always well-maintained and a lack of English signage.

What to see around Tagta

Sure, here are some options for day trips from Tagta in Turkmenistan: 1. The Ancient City of Merv: This historical site is just an hour’s drive from Tagta and makes for an excellent day trip. Merv was once an important Silk Road city and has several buildings and monuments from different eras, including the Seljuk, Timurid, and Khorasan periods.
2. Ashgabat: The capital city of Turkmenistan is just a three-hour drive from Tagta, making it perfect for a day trip. Some of the main attractions to see in Ashgabat include the National Museum of Turkmenistan, Independence Park, and the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque.
3. Darvaza Gas Crater: This natural wonder is about three hours away from Tagta, and it’s definitely worth the trip. The Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell,” is a large natural gas fire that has been burning for decades. It’s a unique sight to see, especially at night.
4. Nokhur: This mountain village is about two hours from Tagta and is known for its fascinating culture and traditions. The village is home to the Nokhurli people, who are believed to have descended from Alexander the Great’s troops. The village’s traditional architecture, crafts, and food are worth exploring.
5. Yangykala Canyon: This natural attraction is about four hours from Tagta, but it’s worth the drive. The canyon’s unique rock formations and colors make for some stunning scenery. It’s a great place for hiking and photography.
For every travel information about Turkmenistan you can click here.

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