Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan: general info for travelers

Turkmenistan is a country located in Central Asia. It is bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the east and northeast, Iran to the south and southwest, and the Caspian Sea to the west. It has a population of about 6 million people and its capital city is Ashgabat.
The country is known for its desert landscapes, including the Karakum Desert which covers 80% of its territory. Turkmenistan is also home to several natural gas reserves, making it one of the world's largest gas producers.
Tourism in Turkmenistan is not as developed as in other neighboring countries due to its strict visa requirements and limited transportation infrastructure. However, visitors can still explore the country's rich history and culture by visiting its ancient cities of Merv and Konye-Urgench, and experiencing its traditional crafts, music, and cuisine.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Turkmenistan, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Turkmenistan: places to visit

Turkmenistan is a Central Asian country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the main places to visit and their descriptions: 1. Ashgabat: The capital city of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat is known for its striking white marble architecture and grandiose monuments. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, parks, and historic sites.
2. Darvaza Gas Crater: Located in the Karakum Desert, this natural wonder is a massive sinkhole that has been burning for several decades, creating a fiery spectacle that is truly unforgettable.
3. Kunya-Urgench: This ancient city was once a thriving center of culture and commerce, boasting stunning Islamic architecture and intricate tilework. Visitors can explore the many ruins and monuments that remain today.
4. Yangykala Canyon: This breathtaking natural wonder is a maze of stunning rock formations and towering cliffs, formed by millions of years of erosion.
5. Nissa: This ancient city dates back to the third century BC and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the many ruins and learn about the fascinating history of this once-thriving metropolis.
6. Kow-Ata Underground Lake: This stunning underground lake is located in the Dashoguz province of Turkmenistan. Visitors can swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters and explore the many surrounding caves.
Overall, Turkmenistan has much to offer for visitors seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
There is more to see and do in Turkmenistan: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Turkmenistan: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Turkmenistan, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Turkmenistan has a hot desert climate with little rainfall all year round. The temperature can reach up to 50°C (122°F) in the summer months of June to August. The winter months of December to February are cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F). Spring and autumn can be a good time to visit, with milder temperatures and occasional rainfall. The most comfortable period to visit is from March to April and October to November, as the temperature is milder and more suitable for outdoor activities. However, please note that Turkmenistan can be quite dusty and windy, especially in the spring.

Turkmenistan: activities and what to do

Turkmenistan is a country that offers a unique blend of adventure and culture to its visitors. Some of the popular activities and sports to do on holiday in Turkmenistan are: 1. Hiking: Turkmenistan has some great hiking trails, especially in the Kopetdag Mountains.
2. Horse riding: Horse riding is a popular activity in Turkmenistan with its rich tradition in equestrian sports.
3. Camel riding: Camels are an important part of Turkmenistan's culture, and riding them is an incomparable experience.
4. Desert safari: Enjoy a thrilling adventure through the vast, barren deserts of Turkmenistan in a 4×4 vehicle.
5. Water sports: Turkmenbashi has some beautiful beaches that offer water sports such as jet-skiing, water-skiing, and scuba diving.
6. Cycling: Explore the country by bicycle and experience the traditional lifestyle of the people as you ride around remote villages and ancient cities.
7. Traditional sports: Turkmenistan has a rich heritage of traditional sports, including wrestling, archery, and horse racing.
8. Visit historical sites: Turkmenistan has many historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Merv, which is one of the most important ancient cities in Central Asia.
There are many other activities to enjoy in Turkmenistan, depending on your interests. Overall, Turkmenistan is a great place to explore and discover new adventures.

Turkmenistan: few words on history and culture

Turkmenistan is a country rich in history and culture. It has been inhabited since ancient times and was the home of several great empires, including the Parthian and Sassanian Empires. In more recent times, Turkmenistan was part of the Soviet Union before gaining independence in 1991.
The culture of Turkmenistan is heavily influenced by its nomadic past and its Islamic faith. Traditional music and dance are an important part of Turkmen culture, with the dutar and the dombra being popular instruments. Turkmen rugs and carpets are famous for their intricate designs and are highly valued around the world.
The country is also home to many historical and cultural sites, including the ancient city of Merv, which was once one of the largest cities in the world. The capital city of Ashgabat is known for its impressive architecture, including the Monument of Neutrality and the Turkmenistan Independence Monument.
Overall, Turkmenistan is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history and culture.

Turkmenistan: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Turkmenistan would typically be by air. The Ashgabat International Airport is the main international gateway into the country. There are several airlines such as Turkmenistan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa that operate flights to Ashgabat from major cities across the world. Once in Turkmenistan, you can explore the country further by taking internal flights or using road transport such as buses, taxis, and private cars. The train is also an option, but the network is limited, and the schedules might not be reliable. However, it's essential to ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents and permits before embarking on your journey. To hire a car to visit Turkmenistan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Turkmenistan: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Turkmenistan with a full stomach:D
Turkmen cuisine is a flavorful blend of Turkish, Iranian, Central Asian, and Russian influences. Here are some of the typical foods of Turkmenistan: 1. Plov: Plov is a traditional rice dish that is popular in Turkmenistan and throughout Central Asia. It is typically made with lamb or beef, vegetables, and spices such as cumin, turmeric, and coriander.
2. Shashlik: Shashlik is a popular grilled meat dish that is similar to skewered kebabs. It is typically made with lamb, beef, or chicken and is marinated in a blend of spices before being grilled over an open flame.
3. Beshbarmak: Beshbarmak is a hearty stew made with lamb or beef, onions, and homemade noodles. It is a traditional dish in Turkmenistan and is often served at special occasions and celebrations.
4. Manty: Manty are steamed dumplings that are typically filled with lamb or beef, onions, and spices. They are a popular street food in Turkmenistan and can be found at food stalls throughout the country.
5. Gyzyl gyurma: Gyzyl gyurma is a sweet pastry made with flour, butter, and sugar. It is a popular dessert in Turkmenistan and is often served with tea.
Overall, Turkmen cuisine is flavorful and hearty, with a focus on meat and spices.

Turkmenistan: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Turkmenistan can be considered a relatively expensive country for tourists compared to other Central Asian countries. The government has control over the economy, and tourist accommodations and activities can be quite pricey. Additionally, the country requires all visitors to purchase a "Letter of Invitation" before being issued a visa, which can also increase the cost of visiting. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it is still possible to have a memorable and affordable trip to Turkmenistan.

Turkmenistan: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodation in Turkmenistan, such as: 1. Online booking sites: You can search for accommodation through popular booking websites such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia. These sites offer a wide range of options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations.
2. Local tour operators: If you are traveling to Turkmenistan through a local tour operator, they can arrange accommodations for you as part of their services.
3. Hotels: You can check out the various hotels in Turkmenistan by doing a simple online search. Hotels in Turkmenistan range from luxurious to budget-friendly options.
4. Homestays: Homestays are also a popular option in Turkmenistan where you stay with a local family. This option is not only affordable but also offers an opportunity to experience the local culture.
Make sure to research the options thoroughly before making a reservation to ensure a comfortable and safe stay.
You can check hotel prices in Turkmenistan here:
Booking.com

Turkmenistan: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Turkmenistan is still a relatively undiscovered travel destination, and the number of tourists varies from year to year. In 2019, around 100,000 tourists visited Turkmenistan, according to official statistics. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists in 2020 greatly decreased. In general, there are no very crowded periods in Turkmenistan, but there may be some events or festivals that attract more visitors. For example, the Nowruz celebrations in March are popular, and the Turkmenistan Independence Day, which is celebrated in October, may also attract more visitors. It is always a good idea to check the calendar of events and make arrangements in advance to avoid potential crowds.
Turkmenistan is generally considered a safe country for tourists. The crime rate is low, and violence against foreigners is rare. However, it's important to note that the Turkmen government maintains strict control over all aspects of daily life, including tourism. Visitors should be aware of the following: - There are certain areas that visitors are not allowed to enter, such as military zones and border areas, which are strictly off-limits.
- The government may monitor the activities of foreign visitors, including their communications and movements.
- Visitors should be respectful of Turkmen customs and traditions, and dress modestly in public.
- Political protests and demonstrations are illegal, and visitors should avoid getting involved in any political activities.
Overall, Turkmenistan is a safe country for tourists, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of the restrictions imposed by the government. It's always a good idea to check local news and embassy websites for up-to-date information before traveling.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Turkmenistan on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Turkmenistan: events for tourists

Turkmenistan has several interesting events that may attract tourists. Some of the most popular include: 1. Nowruz Celebrations: This is the Persian New Year and is celebrated on March 21. The Nowruz celebrations in Turkmenistan are very colorful, with traditional games, music, dance performances, and local foods.
2. Turkmen Carpet Festival: This festival is held in Ashgabat and celebrates the country's traditional carpet-making industry. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, demonstrations, competitions, and sales of hand-woven carpets.
3. Day of the Turkmen Horse: Held annually in late April, this event celebrates the importance of horses in Turkmenistan's culture and history. Visitors can see horse races, traditional riding displays, and even purchase horse-related souvenirs.
4. International Festival of Classical Music: This festival is conducted annually in the capital of Ashgabat and features international and local classical musicians performing in a variety of venues.
5. Independence Day: Celebrated on October 27, the Independence Day of Turkmenistan is a national holiday where locals take to the streets and enjoy cultural shows, concerts, and fireworks displays.
These are just a few of the many events tourists can take part in during their visit to Turkmenistan.

Turkmenistan: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Turkmenistan, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Turkmenistan is a beautiful country located in Central Asia and offers a plethora of amazing experiences for tourists. Here is a two-week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Turkmenistan: Day 1-2: Ashgabat Spend the first two days in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital city. Take a city tour and visit important landmarks like the Independence Monument, Arch of Neutrality, and the National Museum of History and Ethnography. In the evening, visit the Tolkuchka Bazaar, one of the biggest and most colorful markets in Central Asia.
Day 3-4: Darvaza Gas Crater Leave Ashgabat and head towards the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Door to Hell." Spend a night in a campsite nearby and watch the flames dance across the desert sky.
Day 5-6: Konye-Urgench Travel to Konye-Urgench, an ancient city filled with mosques, mausoleums and other historic attractions. Visit the 15th-century Turabek Khanum Mausoleum, the 11th-century Kutlug Timur Minaret, and the impressive Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum.
Day 7-8: Yangykala Canyon Explore the stunning Yangykala Canyon with its breathtakingly beautiful multi-colored rocky formations carved by millions of years of natural erosion.
Day 9-10: Mary Mary is located in the east of the country and offers multiple archaeological and cultural attractions that must not skip: Visit the grand Silk Road sites, including the ruined city of Merv, the Gonur Depe archaeological site, and the enigmatic Nisa Fortress.
Day 11-12: Turkmenabat Travel to the historic city of Turkmenabat, located in the northeast of the country. Enjoy the scenic views of the Amu Darya River and visit the Kugitang Mountains.
Day 13-14: Avaza Finish your trip in Avaza, a newly developed resort on the Caspian Sea. Relax on the stunning beaches or indulge in adventure sports like fishing, snorkeling, and water skiing.
Turkmenistan is an exciting destination with a lot to offer, and this two-week itinerary will give a typical tourist a great experience of the country's natural beauty, culture, and history.

Turkmenistan: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Turkmenistan described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Akdepe is a small town located in the Ahal province of Turkmenistan. It has a population of around 14,000 people and is situated approximately 20 kilometers north of the capital city, Ashgabat. The to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Akdepe
- 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 archi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ashgabat
- Atamyrat is a city located in the eastern part of Turkmenistan, close to the border with Afghanistan. It is the capital of the Lebap Region and a major transportation hub connecting the country's east... CONTINUE here for a trip to Atamyrat
- Bairamaly is a town located in the Mary Province of Turkmenistan, near the border with Afghanistan. It has a population of around 15,000 people and is known for its agriculture, particularly for the p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bairamaly
- 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 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balkanabat
- Bayramaly is a city located in the Mary Province of Turkmenistan. It is situated about 135 kilometers east of the capital city, Ashgabat. Bayramaly has a population of around 70,000 people and is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bayramaly
- Bereket is a city located in the Balkan Province of Turkmenistan. It has a population of approximately 28,000 people and is situated on the main train line between Turkmenbashi on the Caspian Sea and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bereket
- Büzmeýin is a small town located in the Balkan Province of Turkmenistan. The town has a population of around 10,000 people and is situated on the banks of the Görogly River. Büzmeýin is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Büzmeýin
- Darvaza, also known as the "Door to Hell," is a natural gas crater located in the Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan. The crater is approximately 70 meters in diameter and was formed in 1971 when a Soviet... CONTINUE here for a trip to Darvaza
- Dashoguz is a city located in the northern part of Turkmenistan, near the border with Uzbekistan. It is the capital of the Dashoguz province and the fourth-largest city in the country, with a populati... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dashoguz
- Farab is a town located in Turkmenistan's Balkan Province. It lies near the border with Uzbekistan and is situated on the banks of the Amu-Darya River. Farab has a population of around 20,000 people a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Farab
- Galkynysh, also known as the Galkynys Gas Field, is a massive natural gas field located in southeastern Turkmenistan. It is one of the largest gas fields in the world and is estimated to hold around 2... CONTINUE here for a trip to Galkynysh
- Gokdepe is a small town located in the Ahal Province of Turkmenistan. It is situated about 30 kilometers to the southwest of the capital city, Ashgabat. The town is renowned for its well-preserved for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gokdepe
- Gumdag is a small city located near the Caspian Sea in Turkmenistan. It is known for its beautiful beaches and resorts, making it a popular tourist destination in the country. The city is also home to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gumdag
- Kunya-Urgench (also known as Koneurgench) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Turkmenistan. It was once a center of Islamic culture and an important stop on the famous Silk Road. The site conta... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koneurgench
- Mary is a city located in the eastern part of Turkmenistan, near the border of Afghanistan. It is the capital city of the Mary Province and has a population of around 123,000 people. Mary is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mary
- Seydi is a city located in the eastern part of Turkmenistan. It is the capital of the Lebap Region and has a population of approximately 70,000 people. The city is mostly known for its industrial acti... CONTINUE here for a trip to Seydi
- 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 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tagta
- Tejen is a town located in the eastern province of Ahal, in Turkmenistan. It has a population of around 20,000 people and it is situated approximately 280 km east of the capital, Ashgabat. Tejen is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tejen
- Turkmenabat is a city located in eastern Turkmenistan. It is the third-largest city in the country, with a population of around 260,000 people. Turkmenabat is situated in the fertile Murghab River val... CONTINUE here for a trip to Turkmenabat
- Türkmenabat is a city located in the eastern part of Turkmenistan, near the border with Uzbekistan. It is the capital of the Lebap Province and the third-largest city in Turkmenistan. The city is situ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Türkmenabat
- Turkmenbasy is a port city located on the eastern coast of the Caspian Sea in Turkmenistan. It is known for its beautiful beaches and hot springs, as well as the impressive monument to Turkmenbashi, t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Türkmenbasy
- Yoloten is a district in the eastern part of Turkmenistan, located in the Mary region. It is known for its vast gas fields, which make up a significant portion of Turkmenistan's natural gas reserves. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yoloten


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