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Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Turkmenistan | A Complete Travel Guide

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: December 22, 2021  - Last updated: April 2, 2022

Categories Central Asia , Destinations , Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is the strangest and the least explored of all the six countries in Central Asia. It’s also one of the least visited countries in the world, with less than 10 000 foreign tourists a year. This unique country is hard to get entry to but what awaits is a world of intrigue and an experience that will leave you with memories for a lifetime. 

With that in mind, here is a complete travel guide to Turkmenistan to get you prepared and ready, with a few Turkmenistan facts and strange laws to go along with it. 

During my visit to Turkmenistan so did I travel around a significant part of the country for eight days, visiting big parts of the country doing this itinerary: Ashgabat – Nisa – Geok Tepe – Kov Ata cave – Nokhur – Parau Bibi – Balkanabat – Yangy Kala Canyon – Turkmenbashy – Ashgabat – Darvaza Gas (The Gates To hell) – Ashgabat.

Getting to Turkmenistan

Officially, foreign tourists are welcomed, but the requirement for expensive guided tours and a lengthy and difficult visa process discourage many foreign visitors from visiting Turkmenistan.

Getting to Turkmenistan is the hardest part of the trip. There are no online bookings for flights with the national airline yet, so tickets can only be purchased through an agent. You can also only fly into Ashgabat city as this is the only port of entry for international arrivals and departures. 

To Turkmenistan with flights

There are only a few international flights to Turkmenistan, with only Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa being the international airlines flying into Turkmenistan. However, the local Turkmenistan Airlines offers international flights to London, Birmingham, Dubai , Bangkok , Beijing, Paris, New Delhi , Amritsar , Moscow, Saint Petersburg , Jeddah , and Minsk. NB. Since the outbreak of Covid, all international flights to Turkmenistan have been canceled.

Visa for Turkmenistan Travel

The visa process to gain entry to Turkmenistan is strict, to say the least. Probably the most difficult visa in the world. A tourist visa for Turkmenistan is only possible to obtain with help from a local Travel Agency, meaning you will have to book a guide and a tour, but the good news is with a pre-booked trip, are you able to get the visa on arrival at the international airport in Ashgabat. Once you get the invitation letter, so will it only take about 2 min to get your visa at the airport. If you are traveling overland, so it is possible to get a 3 or 5-day transit visa for Turkmenistan on your own without  too much difficulty. But over the recent years, rejections have become an estimated 50% rejection rate.

The most up-to-date information about Turkmenistan visas can be found here .

Registration in Turkmenistan 

After all the red tape that you have to jump through to get into Turkmenistan, you will have to register your stay with the local Migration officials upon arrival, and every city you stay in during your visit. This is only for those who manage to obtain a visa on their own, though. If you go with a tour agency, then they should take care of this for you. 

Best Places to Visit in Turkmenistan

During a visit to Turkmenistan, you can travel around a significant part of the country for eight days, and this is the best itinerary for it.

Ashgabat 

The capital city of Ashgabat is an odd place that once had elements and influences of Soviet Russia. This all changed when the new President took over. He demolished the older Russian structures and created all-new buildings made of white marble. 

One thing that’s a little creepy is that the city is very quiet, to the point where it almost feels like it’s abandoned. It is because of this that the city has the nickname ‘the city of the dead by many foreign tourists, however, I did really like Ashgabat.

Take a while to explore all the marble and gold buildings and take a trip to the Gates to Hell outside of the city. 

Just outside of Ashgabat is the ancient city of Nisa, also known as Parthaunia. This massive city was the first capital of the area and dates back to 250 BC. The fortress within the city was made a UNESCO Heritage site with Parthian remains discovered inside of it. 

It is believed that this was the Arsacid Empire’s first seat. It was an immensely important trading center for the Parthian Empire and was also famous for its incredible horses that were both beautiful and fast. 

Kov Ata Cave

One of Turkmenistan’s natural wonders, this cave dives down to around 59m/195 feet underground and has a naturally heated lake at the bottom of it. You can actually swim in this lake with the waters believed to have medicinal powers; thanks to the thermal heat of the lake, the lake is 35+ warm.

Oh, the cave is also home to an immense number of bats that will circle overhead while you are in the lake. Be aware that the lake is really deep, while there´s a small platform to stand on, so is it often crowded with locals, so you should be able to swim to enjoy the lake. You should only spend a maximum of 20 minutes in the lake and 45 minutes in the cave in total because of the sulfur fumes. But nobody checks.

There´s a small changing area at the lake, but the whole area is really dark without any safety guards or life jackets if someone gets into problems in the water.

NB. The place is absolutely not wheelchair available or for people with a bad knee.

This little area is very remote and has an interesting set of beliefs as they credit that they are descendants of Alexander the Great. The inhabitants speak a different dialect which other Turkmen struggle to understand. 

They are known for their odd customs and their work ethic. They are a rich little village with new cars being a pretty common sight.

This is a beautiful area to hike with the several different villages that make up the area being within walking distance. Take to the trails past the swimming areas and waterfalls and bask in the nature around you. 

But most people that visit Nokhur, come here for the Nokhur cemetery. A pretty strange site. The graves at Nokhur cemetery are marked by the horns of mountain goats, point to burial rites steeped in animism, sprinkled with Zoroastrianism. The goat horns are believed to fight off evil spirits, while the stones are marked with steps, to help the deceased ascend to heaven.

The white Parau Bibi mausoleum is a pilgrim site and shrine to the patron of all pregnant women and infants. Women from across Turkmenistan will gather here and ask for help when needed. This is an amazing area to visit and one that will leave a lasting impression. 

This city is the capital of the largest region in Turkmenistan but also one of the youngest. It’s famous for being where the oil and gas for the country were found. Here, you’ll take a step inside modern Turkmenistan, with all the interesting structures and also having a very small amounts of people. 

Yangykala Canyon

The Yangykala Canyon is an often overlooked or forgotten place that most Turkmenistan people haven’t even seen themselves. It´s a real off-the-beaten-path destination in Central Asia. This natural attraction is something to behold, with sights of yellow, red, and pink rock contrasting the sharp canyon walls. 

It is even possible to camp on a plateau there overnight so you can wake up to the solitude in the desert. 

Turkmenbashy

Sitting on the edges of the Caspian sea , Turkmenbashy is a port city that offers a link to Baku from either railway or by taking a ferry. Just outside of the city is a smaller area of Awaza, which happens to be an insanely popular holiday destination of the country. 

This area has a strong Russian influence and overall a very luxurious and more high-quality environment. For those looking to relax in luxury while in Turkmenistan, this is the place for you. 

What is Turkmenistan Famous for?

The first thing that comes to mind about Turkmenistan is its interesting government, but there is more when it comes to tourism in Turkmenistan so let’s take a look. 

Darvaza Gas Crater

The famous ‘ Gate of Hell’ is in Turkmenistan . Locally known as the Darvaza gas crater, it is a man-made crater in the desert that is continuously on fire.

The Gate of hell Turkmenistan was created by mistake in 1971 when a Soviet drilling rig accidentally punched into a massive underground natural gas cavern.

This caused the ground to collapse and the entire drilling rig to fall in. You can still see the old metal pipes sticking out of the ground in the crater.

Almost 50 years on, and geologists still have no idea how much longer it will burn for. It might die out tomorrow, or it might burn for another 100 years; nobody knows.

Taking a trip to see it at night is a must when the fires flare up and give a stark contrast to the sheer darkness of the desert.  

Silk Road Cities

The ancient city of Merv is one of Turkmenistan’s Silk Road contributions. It is a massive urban center that is the largest on Silk Road. This is an oasis of a city that is a UNESCO site, with another city, Kunya-Urgench, being another UNESCO site. 

The City Center is Made of Marble

Ashgabat is unique in that a majority of the structures and public areas are built with white marble. It actually holds a Guinness World Record for having the highest density of buildings made of marble in the world. 

There are no big billboards with commercials anywhere in the city, and best of all, there’s no Starbucks, no KFC, no Mcdonalds, etc. Only small, locally owned businesses here.

But the few tourists that make it to Ashgabat will see a city that is extremely well-organized with an easy bus system, and it’s also probably the cleanest city anywhere in the world. Dirty cars are not even allowed in the city.

What Language do They Speak in Turkmenistan

An interesting fact about Turkmenistan is that it has three spoken languages and only one written one. Uzbek, Russian, and Turkmen are the different languages that you can speak while in Turkmenistan. 

Turkmen is a member of the Turkic family of language. It is very similar to Turkish and is spoken in seven different dialects throughout the different provinces of the country. The sole written language, however, is Turkmen, so brushing up on a few key phrases is recommended. 

Things You Should Pack to Visit Turkmenistan

Your luggage will depend on what time of the year you are planning to travel. If going in summer, you can expect high temperatures, so lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as your swimsuit, is essential. Winter is the complete opposite, and multiple layers of clothing that are also waterproof are needed. 

For women, even though it is technically an Islamic country, it has a complicated relationship with its views, and so it’s not an unacceptable thing for you to show skin. Turkmenistan is, in fact, one of the most liberal Muslim countries in the world.

Essential medication is also a must as while there are pharmacies in major cities where you can get the basics, there is no access to any form of medication outside of these major areas. 

However, don´t expect much shopping in Turkmenistan, while there’s a big fancy shopping mall with “everything” in Ashgabat, so is there not much when it comes to shopping outside the capital. Maybe the best thing to buy in Turkmenistan is locally woven carpets which are among the best in the world.

Trips to Turkmenistan Information

When it comes to tourism in Turkmenistan and planning your trip, there are a few things that you need to know to make sure that you are fully prepared for what lies ahead of you. 

Getting Around Turkmenistan

If you make your own way into the country, then you only really have a train or taxi to use to get around.

If you go with a tour guide, then you should be taken around in a 4×4 vehicle while exploring the country. There are buses, but there aren’t many at all. 

All three of those options are pretty cheap ways to get around, but winter does have an impact on the transportation system with interruptions to power supplies. The trains and buses are also slow, but at least they are reasonably comfortable. 

But the fastest and cheapest way to get across Turkmenistan is by flying; domestic flights in Turkmenistan with the local airline Turkmenistan Airlines are subsidized by the government, making Turkmenistan probably the cheapest country in the world for local flights. My flight from Turkmenbashy to Ashgabat was only 7 USD.

Money in Turkmenistan

The Manat is the main currency of Turkmenistan, while a single Manat is made of 100 Tenne. It is worth remembering that there are not that many ATMs at all. Don’t bank on using a card either, as cards will rarely be accepted by any store.

There are currency exchanges throughout, and they will happily change US Dollars and Euros into local Manat at a fixed rate and take no commission. They love to exchange US Dollars and prefer them, so bring various low denominations in cash, which you can exchange as you need in a small discrete bag . 

The notes need to be in near perfect condition for them to be accepted, as any marked or damaged notes will not be accepted. You will be expected to settle your hotel bill in cash with US Dollars if you won’t use a credit card. All other payments will have to be made in cash. 

NB. Changing money on the black market, (strictly illegal) will give you a much, much better rate, often three times the official rate.

Internet in Turkmenistan

Don’t expect too much internet while you visit Turkmenistan. The connection has always been a struggle, but the state also has strict laws on internet access and is heavily filtered. When you do gain access, your online activity will be monitored, and a large number of websites are blocked from access. If you thought the Great Firewall China or the internet in Eritrea was strict, then you haven’t been to Turkmenistan, even with a premium VPN, so was about every social media still blocked and unavailable, even WhatsApp, telegram, etc. was impossible to log into, even with a VPN. In general, there is wifi in the higher-end hotels in Balkanabat, Turkmenbashi, and Ashgabatand at most one old-school internet cafe in each city. But even in the high-end hotels, so is the internet connection extremely slow.

If you are looking for a social media or internet detox, then a Turkmenistan holiday isn’t a bad idea while exploring this unique country.  Because while the first day it´s pretty frustrating with not being able to connect to the outside world, but after a few days, it feels actually good.

Safety in Turkmenistan

In general, Turkmenistan safety is considered to be good and a safe place to explore, but there are consequences of breaking the law. It is an authoritarian state and not widely known as a tourist hotspot. And criticizing the President is a serious offense. The standard safety precautions should be carried out as there is a crime, just like in any other major city. 

Seeing as that almost all sales are cash-driven, be careful with the amount that you carry on you at any given time and keep it in a discreet place. Going out alone, especially at night, is not recommended as the police can get a little suspicious. Also, don’t take any photographs of the military or any government buildings and markets.

And be aware there´s secret police everywhere, personally so did I get stopped 3 times by the secret police, once for taking a photo of the University in Asgahbat, the central market and just for walking down a random street, however, while the secret where polite, so are they strict and not open for discussion.

Electricity in Turkmenistan 

Surprisingly, there is plenty of access to electricity throughout Turkmenistan, with most of the population receiving gas and electricity for free. However, it is pretty inefficient, and there have been reports of various problems with the supply of electricity. There are even problems with the heating in Ashgabat, not a nice thing to have to endure while visiting in winter. 

The older power stations are heavily impacted by the weather so expect frequent blackouts in both the colder winter months and also in the warm summer months. Ensure that you always keep a bottle or two of water on you as the electricity going out in Ashgabat causes issues with the supply of water as well. 

Drinks and Alcohol in Turkmenistan

Although it is a predominantly Muslim country, Turkmenistan is still somewhat liberal around the consumption of alcohol. There are, however, quite a few strict laws in Turkmenistan around the sale of alcohol. But is not often strictly enforced. About every restaurant and shop in the country offers at least beer. But to the surprise of many, so do Turkmenistan, produce their own, beer, vodka, wine, and brandy. Mainly that it cannot be consumed on public transport or in public areas of any kind. Beaches, forests, and elevators, as well as at any sporting facilities, are a few other areas.

There is also a ban on the sale of alcohol on weekends from establishments that are not either bars or restaurants. But this rule doesn´t seem to be very strictly enforced. And there´s no shortage of bars and restaurants anywhere in Turkmenistan, so you don’t have to worry about staying “dry”. Beer is insanely popular and the drink of choice for almost everyone, even though it is pretty low in alcohol percentage. For all the wine lovers, there are some amazing local wines.

The Turkmenistan people also make stunning Brandy, and even vodka, believe it or not. Start your night off over a few bottles of Tac Premium beer, and then maybe sample some brandy after that. 

When Will you Travel to Turkmenistan?

There are surely a ton of interesting facts about Turkmenistan. But, if you are ready to pay the high price and go through the hassle to obtain a visa, Turkmenistan has a lot to offer. From three historical UNESCO World Heritage sites, two of the strangest natural sites in the world, and a one-of-a-kind capital covered with white marble. 

There are gold statues and a lot of obscure monuments and strange architecture to add even more reasons to travel here. So the question remains, when will you travel to Turkmenistan?

Thursday 23rd of December 2021

Thx for the report. I have been twice in Turkmenistan ( 2006 and 2017). strange but interesting country to visit.

Turkmenistan

By far the most mysterious and unexplored of Central Asia’s 'stans, Turkmenistan became famous for the truly bizarre dictatorship of Saparmyrat Niyazov, who ruled as ‘Turkmenbashi’ (‘leader of the Turkmen’) until his death in 2006. Niyazov covered this little-known desert republic with grandiose monuments and golden statues of himself. Although many of these statues have since been dismantled, plenty of visitors still think of Turkmenistan as a sort of totalitarian theme park. But the least-visited of Central Asia’s countries is far more than this – it's an ancient land of great spirituality, tradition and natural beauty.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Long before Merv raised its first tower, Bronze Age villages were assembling along the Murgab River in what is called the Margiana Oasis. The greatest of…

᠎Darvaza Gas Craters

One of Turkmenistan’s most unusual sights, the Darvaza Gas Craters are the result of Soviet-era gas exploration in the 1970s. The three craters are…

Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar

The best remaining testimony to Seljuq power at Merv is the 38m-high Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, located in what was the centre of Sultan Kala. The…

Köw Ata Underground Lake

Like entering Milton’s underworld, only with changing rooms and a staircase, a visit to the Köw Ata Underground Lake is a unique experience. You enter a…

Turabeg Khanym Complex

Turabeg Khanym Complex, opposite the Konye-Urgench ticket office, is still the subject of some debate. Locals and some scholars consider this a mausoleum,…

National Museum

Looking like a lost palace in the urban desert, the National Museum occupies a striking position in front of the Kopet Dag. It’s actually a collection of…

Yangykala Canyon

With bands of pink, red and yellow rock searing across the sides of steep canyon walls, Yangykala is a breathtaking sight and one of the most spectacular…

Mary Regional Museum

This museum is housed in a sparkling white-marble palace across the river from the centre of town. The enormous premises is home to a collection of…

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Caravanistan

The Silk Road Travel Guide

63 Great Things To See and Do in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan has astounding natural sights and deep, deep historical roots. The desert is full of fascinating creatures and it has fostered a living folk culture steeped in Sufi traditions.

The downside? Because of the many restrictions for tourists, it’s difficult to actually see or do many of these things. On the plus side, Turkmenistan’s strange government has created a whole new category of “weird tourism”, and that is on display everywhere.

We ranked ideas based on how easy they are to complete – first is easiest, last is most difficult.

Table of Contents

Natural sights

• Lean into the gas crater of Darwaza in the desert twilight
• Swim in the underground cave of Kow-Ata
• Explore the ancient Tethys Sea: drive through the colourful Yangisuw canyon and camp at even more spectacular Yangykala canyon
• Track dinosaur steps in Kugitang national park and relax at the sulfur springs
• Get splattered by the large Getpatlavuk mud volcano

Weird & dark sights

• Try to use the internet
• Be astounded by the sacrilege of the Kipchak mosque  and visit Turkmenbashi’s final resting place
• Go to a fancy restaurant and get spied upon
• Take the Walk of Health and wonder how healthy that can be
• Hunt for remainders of Turkmenbashi’s rule: Rukhnama books, golden statues and vodka bottles
• Have a conversation with a local
• Attend one of many strange celebrations dedicated to flags, horses, melons, …
• Descend into the Garashor depression and ponder the madness of the desert Golden Age Lake

Historical sights

• Visit the remains of the Parthian stronghold of Nisa
• Take a day to visit the left-overs of once-proud, ruined Konye-Urgench
• Get the full tour of the ruins of Merv , once the largest city on earth
• Seek the foundations of Zoroastrism at Gonur Depe
• Visit the Bronze Age archaeological site of Margush
• See real Silk Road ruins at Dekistan
• Admire the craft of the Persian fortress of Nadir Shah
• Delve into the Ekedeshik cave settlement
• Learn more about the ruins of Izmukshir and Ismamut Ata
• Trace more of the withered Silk Road on the way from Ashgabat to Mary at the ruins of Namazga Depe, Ulug Depe and Altyn Depe
• Dig further into Parthian history at the atmospheric sites of Anau and Abiverd
• Do a historical tour of the northern desert, with visits to the Mausoleum of Ashyk Aydin Pir,  the fortress of Diyarbekir, Shasenem shrine and Gyaur Kala
• Visit the mausoleums in Sarakhs, and get out to the Silk road ruins around the town at Gurukly Depe and Mele Hairam

City life & museums

• Be blown away at the sight of Ashgabat, the White City, stroll the deadly streets and visit the weird landmarks
• Amble through the market in Turkmenbashi and discover its ethnic diversity
• Take a ride in the world’s biggest indoor ferris wheel or enjoy Ashgabat’s amusement park
• Taste the many varieties of dairy Turkmenistan has to offer at the Russian bazaar
• Visit the Carpet museum
• Find out where the life is, in Old Ashgabat
• Go wild at Ashgabat’s Sunday horse races
• Visit the Geok Depe mosque in Ashgabat on a Friday

Village life & folk culture

• Put on a fuzzy telpek hat for the ultimate photo-op
• Learn about Sufism and see how it has permeated every part of Turkmenistan’s society
• Admire women’s traditional dresses and dance at a wedding party
• Accept the invitation for a massive shared meal at the Sufi shrine in Merv
• While away the hours in the mountain villages of Nokhur and Murche and peel away their many layers
• Check out carpet weavers at work, and discover the other Turkmen crafts: jewelry, silk weaving and embroidery
• Don’t settle for kebab and ask for yarma (wheat groat stew), chekdirme (lamb rib stew), semeni (wheat sprout pudding), pumpkin filled flatbread (gutab),…
• Buy a carpet
• Meet the village people in Erbent, Dokurbok or the isolated Damla oasis
• Feel the spirits at the pilgrimage sites of Gozli Ata, Kemal Ata, Parau Bibi, Ersari Ata and Meane Baba
• Help set up a desert yurt
• Milk a camel
• Learn to play the dutar

Outdoor activities, fauna & flora

• In the Karakum desert, take a closer look to find it teeming with life
• Walk in spring in the tulip fields of the Kopet Dag mountains at Badkyz national park
• Ride an Ahal Teke horse
• Sample one of Turkmenistan’s many types of pomegranate on a hike through the Sumbar valley
• Watch Caspian seals frolic in the polluted waters of the Caspian
• Watch wildlife in the harsh Kaplankyr reserve by 4WD or camel
• Spot a Persian leopard in the Hasardag nature reserve
• Try to spot a Bukharan deer in the Tugay forests of the Amu Darya reserve
• Stay overnight at Repetek nature reserve and discuss life as it is with the rangers
• Stay at the beach resort of Avaza
• Stay at a Soviet-era sanatorium

Things to do in other Stans

• Things to do in Kazakhstan
• Things to do in Uzbekistan
• Things to do in Kyrgyzstan
• Things to do in Tajikistan
• Things to do in Turkmenistan

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Best attractions in Turkmenistan: Top 15

Turkmenistan is one of the few countries with a vast tourist potential, which has not yet been fully disclosed. The mysterious country, unlike its famous Asian neighbors, once followed its own special, authentic path. However, those who wish to get acquainted with Turkmenistan will discover completely new sides of the country, and the historical and natural sights of Turkmenistan will fill the impression. Large-scale historical actions were unfolding on the lands of this country, whole civilizations were developing and collapsing, so this region conceals a lot of historical secrets and interesting findings. This is a confirmation that there are many historical monuments, ancient constructions and other exciting, interesting places to see in Turkmenistan.

What to see first in Turkmenistan

Guests of Turkmenistan arrive in this state for different periods: someone is planning a large-scale trip and close acquaintance with the customs and culture of the country, someone is looking for what to see in Turkmenistan in 1 day. Anyway, every tourist will find it useful to know what famous sights lurk in the rich lands of Turkmenistan in order to compose a rich itinerary of a trip.

1. Karakum Desert

The Karakum Desert, known to everyone, which occupies most of the country’s territory, opens the ranking. It is one of the largest deserts in the world, a realm of sand and drought. The climate here is harsh, the inter-seasonal temperature difference is more than 90 degrees, but surprisingly, about one seventh of the population still lives in the Karakum desert, adapting to the unfriendly conditions of the desert.

2. The ancient city of Nisa

Just a few kilometers from Ashgabat, guides in Turkmenistan will guide you through the famous ruins of the ancient city of Nisa, the former capital of the Parthian state that existed at the turn of the millennium BC and AD. Once, in the old part of the city was concentrated mass of palaces and temple buildings, as well as a treasury, warehouses with huge stocks of wine and provisions. The walls of the fortresses were built in good faith, their thickness was 8-9 meters, thanks to which the remains of ancient constructions have survived to this day.

Official site: http://tourism.gov.tm/ru/nissa

3. Ancient City of Merv

The review continues with an ancient city whose history goes even further back in the depths of thousands of years. It is the oldest city of Merv in Central Asia dating back to the era of the Moorish civilization at the turn of the 3rd and 2nd millennium B.C. It is also one of the largest archeological sites in Central Asia, with a number of preserved sites on its territory where you can read the history of the legendary city from ancient times to the late Middle Ages.

Official site: http://tourism.gov.tm/ru

4. Dehistan

Among amazing natural places that everyone should visit in Turkmenistan, the Dehistan plain, also called Martian plain, is especially interesting. It was named so for a reason - nowadays, this lifeless, waterless and clay soil has left no trace of fertile land, where once agriculture was successfully carried out from the 2nd millennium B.C. Today all that the plain has left to its descendants are the ruins of the ancient settlement of Misrian, but even by looking at them one can judge how highly cultured and beautiful this ancient settlement was.

Official site: http://tourism.gov.tm

5. Kunya Urgench

Tours in Turkmenistan often include a route to a historical and architectural reserve 500 kilometers north of Ashgabat. It is Kunya Urgench, a small town, which keeps the memory of the majestic Urgench, the former capital of Khorezm. Once, trade caravans passed through the town and various kinds of crafts flourished. But bits of its history survived the ordeal of time: twice it was subjected to siege, destruction, but still survived to this day: the many mausoleums, minarets and fortresses of the Middle Ages.

Official website: http://tourism.gov.tm/ru/koneurgench

6. Ruhiyet Palace

Turkmenistan’s main landmarks are briefly complemented by the Ruhiyet Palace for official events located in Ashgabat. The palace building, built not so long ago - in 1999, has advanced technical equipment and everything necessary for holding various ceremonies at a high international level. Meetings, congresses, forums, inaugurations, as well as informal events - exhibitions, concerts and other celebrations - are held here.

7. Ertogrulgazy Mosque

Once in Ashgabat, you will definitely find somewhere to go in Turkmenistan besides the aforementioned palace. For example, the largest mosque in the city is called Ertogrulgazy. It is also one of the most beautiful mosques of the city decorated in traditional Ottoman style. There is a nice marble road leading to the mosque gates on the sides of which there are fountain bowls in the shape of half of 8-pointed stars. Impressed by the size and design of its courtyard, sumptuous painting of the domes inside the temple and spacious inner hall, which can be simultaneously stay up to 5 thousand worshippers.

8. Monument of Independence of Turkmenistan

The most important state landmark and the tallest structure in Turkmenistan is the Independence Monument, located in Ashgabat in the National Independence Park. It is 118 meters high and has a hemispherical dome at its base with water flowing down its surface from fountains whose nozzles are embedded right in its walls. Through one of the five entrances it is possible to enter the interior of the monument, where the museum is located.

9. Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque

The largest single-domed mosque in Central Asia, according to reviews, is impressive in size - its area is about 18,000 square meters, and inner halls can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers, with the lower hall designed for men and accommodating up to 7,000 people, and

the balconies are for women, with a capacity of up to 3,000 people. The whole structure is built of white marble; the huge painted dome deserves special attention; and besides the main entrance, seven additional entrances lead to the inner halls, in front of which beautiful fountains are placed.

10. Darwaza Gas Crater

The recommendations of this rating are sure to touch on an amazing find in Turkmenistan - we’re talking about the Darvaz gas crater, 270 kilometers north of Ashgabat. “Gates of hell”, as the locals call the crater, have formed due to geological works at the site of the promising deposit found here. As a result, a cavity formed in the Earth’s crust eventually leaked gas, which the fire was set on fire so as not to poison the people living nearby. But the deposit turned out to be so vast that the gas, which was set on fire in 1971, is still blazing today, offering incredible views of the amazing natural phenomenon.

Official site: http://tourism.gov.tm/ru/gazcrater

Turkmenistan sights: what else to visit in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan sights photo with names and descriptions continues the review for those who are already familiar with all the main sights of Turkmenistan. We will talk about unique and extraordinarily beautiful creations, created by nature itself.

11. Dinosaur Plateau

Not far from the border with Uzbekistan, in the southeast of the country, surrounded by mountain ranges, is a small village called Hodzhapil. About three kilometers from this village one can meet an amazing find - a limestone slab, the length and width of which is 3-4 hundred meters. All its surface is completely trampled by dinosaurs - in total there are about 3 thousand footprints, the main part of which was left by megalosaurs that lived during the Jurassic period, as well as smaller dinosaurs that inhabited the local swamp. Over time, the swamp fossilized and the footprints were immortalized on the surface of the resulting plateau.

Official website: http://tourism.gov.tm/ru/dinosaur

12. Baharden Cave

The best sights of Turkmenistan will certainly complement another creation of nature - Baharden Cave, formed due to the impact of hot underground water on the rock. The length of this natural cavity is about 250 meters, the width and height is about 25 meters. Inside there is an underground lake, in the healing hydrogen sulfide waters which you can bathe in. The air inside the cave is very humid, saturated with hydrogen sulfide vapor, and the internal temperature, comfortable to stay, remains unchanged throughout the year.

13. Repetek Reserve

In 1927, the Repetek Biosphere Reserve was organized on the territory of the Kara-Kum Desert, a place with quite diverse flora and fauna on the background of the lifeless kingdom of sands. The uniqueness of this interesting place has long attracted the attention of scientists, who noted that the Kara-Kum desert ecosystem functions better the higher the air temperature rises, up to 60 degrees. About 30 species of mammals, about 200 species of birds and 125 endemic plants live quite successfully on these territories.

Official website: http://www.lichenhouse.narod.ru

14. Yangi-Kala Canyon

In the northwestern part of Turkmenistan, you can visit an amazingly beautiful and shaped natural object called the Yangi-Kala Canyon. After driving through a lifeless desert, at one point you find yourself at a precipice, where the ground drops out from under your feet for hundreds of meters. The canyon was once an ancient sea, which has dried up over time, exposing a sea floor dominated by white and red soil rocks. The rains and wind over time “carved” into the bottom of the canyon colorful fanciful hills, or “fiery fortresses”-that is how the name of the canyon is translated.

15. Caspian Sea

The body of water called the Caspian Sea, in fact, is not a sea - it is the world’s largest undrained lake, located at the junction of Europe and Asia. The salty waters of the Caspian Sea are famous for their healing effects, and the summer temperature is comfortable enough for recreation - not higher than +28 degrees. That is why this is a popular tourist area, and hotels of Turkmenistan, boarding houses, resorts and health resorts, concentrated mainly in the resort area “Avaza”, ready to offer different options for recreation right on the Caspian Sea coast.

Official site: http://tourism.gov.tm/ru/awaza

Turkmenistan is the most closed and authentic country on all post-Soviet space. Every year it attracts more and more inquisitive travelers, who are attracted here by dreams of white marble palaces, ancient cities, national shrines and living oases, created by nature itself right in the middle of lifeless dunes of endless desert.

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14 Places to Visit in Turkmenistan in 2024 (Turkmenistan Tourism Guide)

Table of Contents

About Tourism in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan tourism is growing and this unique country is a fantastic destination for adventurous travellers and “ dark tourists ”! In this article, we will look at the best places to visit in Turkmenistan and its unique tourist attractions!

Turkmenistan isn’t what you would consider a typical tourist destination, in no small part thanks to the country’s tightly controlled borders and paranoid government. However, for a little effort, the country will reward you with one of the most unique travel experiences you can have!

Does Turkmenistan even want Tourists?

Turkmenistan is not reliant on tourism for income thanks to its vast wealth from the Caspian oil fields and the sector remains very much in its infancy. As this report shows, the government seems unconcerned with increasing tourist visitors to the country. This means if you are looking for a unique destination that few others visit, Turkmenistan should definitely be at the top of your list!

Turkmenistan’s Strange Laws

President Saparmurat Niyazov (1940 – 2006), also known as Turkmenbashi, or leader of the Turkmen, ruled the country from 1985 until his death in 2006.

To say Niyazov was a little unorthodox in his ways would be something of an understatement! Like Ghaddafi, he penned his own “little green book” which was required reading in schools and by all government officials.

This book is called the Ruhnama and is a mixture of folklore, tyrannical musings and dodgy poetry. There is a large sculpture/statue of the Ruhnama in Ashgabat which opens at certain times of the day!

Niyazov/Turkmenbashi was famous for instituting some very strange laws. Here are a few of the things he made illegal in Turkmenistan:

• Long hair on men

And it gets stranger still… Did you know that Niyazov renamed the months and days after himself and renamed bread with his mother’s name!

Smoking in Turkmenistan

Since Niyazov was ordered to stop smoking by his doctors, he reasoned that if he can’t smoke, neither should anyone else in the country.

Smoking is highly illegal across the entire country except for a few very specific places, such as outside restaurants and bars.

Smoking on the street is highly illegal and could land you in a Turkmen jail, so don’t spark up unless you are sure you are allowed!

There is a curfew in force across Turkmenistan from 11 pm every night. If you are caught out on the streets after this time you can face possible arrest and imprisonment.

If you arrive late at night, then this should not be an issue if you go direct to your accommodation (I arrived well after midnight thanks to delays with the Baku – Turkmenbashi ferry and customs emptying our bags).

Turkmenistan Tourism – Photography

Given the paranoid nature of Turkmenistan, you should be careful about when you have your camera out.

Do not photograph near government buildings, police or army checkpoints. The problem is, Ashgabat is mainly government buildings, police or army checkpoints! Always ask your guide (or the soldiers/police nearby) if taking photos is allowed.

Outside of the city things are a little more relaxed (well, because it is mostly desert), however you must still avoid pictures of any official buildings including railway stations and airports.

Bugs (Listening Devices)

It is more than likely that your hotel room will be bugged. Refrain from discussing anything political or critical of the country while in your hotel.

Places to Visit in Turkmenistan – Cities

Most of Turkmenistan (90% in fact) is covered by the sun-scorched Karakum Desert. There are however plenty of interesting places to visit in Turkmenistan such as the shiny capital Ashgabat, the Darvaza Gas Crater and much more!

1. Ashgabat

Turkmenistan’s capital has to be seen to be believed. It is one of the most bizarre cities in the world thanks to its spotless and empty streets, white, marbled buildings and golden statues.

There is plenty to see in Ashgabat from Independence Square to the Ashgabat Museum, Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque and even a giant folding statue of Niyazov’s little green book, the Ruhnama.

Ashgabat was all but rebuilt after a devastating earthquake destroyed the city in 1948 killing 110,000 (including President Niyazov’s parents) and raising much of the capital to the ground.

From the city, you can see the Kopet Dag mountains which separate Turkmenistan from Iran less than twenty kilometres away.

2. Konye Urgench

The ancient Timurid settlement of Konye Urgench has been excellently preserved and is definitely one of the best places to visit in Turkmenistan. Here you will find the thousand-year-old Kutlug Timur Minaret that stretches a whopping 60 metres into the desert sky!

The ruins of Konye Urgench are a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and include the minaret, mosques, madrasas and mausoleums. The ancient city is one of the top Turkmenistan tourist attractions!

3. Mary/Merv

Turkmenistan’s fourth-largest city was (and still is) a Silk Road oasis within the Karakum Desert. It is famous for the nearby ancient ruins of Merv, the one-time largest city on earth!

The city had a population of over 1 million during the twelfth century and was an important Silk Road trading post. The city was founded in the 3rd Century BC and was ruled at one time by Alexander the Great.

4. Turkmenabad (Turkmenabat)

Turkmenabad, formerly known as Turkmenabat, is Turkmenistan’s second-largest city after Ashgabat.

The city is an industrial sprawl with nothing of antiquity remaining. Unless you will be travelling to or from Uzbekistan via the Farab border, it’s not really worth seeing as a tourist destination.

That being said, one of the more interesting things to see is the pontoon bridge that crosses the Amu Darya (Oxus) River here (though don’t try and take any pictures as the bridge also encompasses an army checkpoint).

5. Turkmenbashi

If Turkmenistan is the world’s emptiest capital, then Turkmenbashi must be the world’s emptiest coastal resort town. Unless you are arriving by boat from Azerbaijan , there is not much reason to come this far west.

The city is on the shores of the Caspian Sea with large, palatial hotels lining the beaches. There are theme parks and restaurants and shopping malls. There aren’t any people though! When I stayed the night in one of the grand hotels, my friend and I seemed to be the only guests. It was beyond spooky and the strangest hotel breakfast experience ever!

Yerbent is a small village in the middle of the Karakum Desert. There isn’t a lot here aside from a couple of buildings, rusting soviet jeeps, a few yurts and the local camel population. It makes for an interesting pit stop when travelling between Ashgabat and Darvaza.

Places to Visit in Turkmenistan – Tourist Attractions

7. darvaza gas crater “the door to hell”.

Probably the most famous Turkmenistan tourist attraction, the Darvaza Gas Crater is a large, fiery pit in the middle of the desert. In 1971 the soviets drilled for oil and instead came upon a natural gas field. They decided to burn the gas off, thinking it would extinguish itself soon after, but it has been burning strong ever since!

Most tours of the country include the Darvaza Gas Crater as a highlight, and this is definitely one of the best places to visit in Turkmenistan! It’s possible to camp on a ridge above the crater so you can take in the scene as the sun sets and watch it light up the night with a barbeque and vodka!

8. Kow Ata Underground Lake

Kow Ata is home to a mineral lake and hot springs around 90km from the capital Ashgabat. The lake is located 60 metres underground and is warm year-round. It is very popular with locals who come here to relax with a bbq and usually a few shots of vodka!

As well as a great place to relax, Kow Ata is also home to Central Asia’s largest bat population and is an impressive geological structure of itself. Definitely one of the more interesting things to do in Turkmenistan.

9. Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque

As you can probably tell by its name, this mosque was constructed for President Niyazov/Turkmenbashi, and as such caused a lot of controversies. Included within the walls are scriptures not only from the Koran but also from the Ruhnama, which greatly angered the Saudis!

The mosque, which is located in Gypjak on the outskirts of Ashgabat, is massive and can hold up to 10,000 people at any one time and was completed in 2004.

10. Ashgabat Cable Car

One of the best Turkmenistan tourist attractions is the Turkmenbashi Cableway, also known as the Ashgabat Cable Car. The cableway goes from the city up into the Kopet Dag Mountains to a height of 1,290 metres (4,200 feet) offering fantastic views of the city. One of the best things to do in Turkmenistan for sure!

11. National Museum of Turkmenistan

The national museum of Turkmenistan is located in the capital Ashgabat and contains three main displays; natural history, science, and of course, President Niyazov/Turkmenbashi!

The museum costs a whopping $30 for entry, so unless you have a burning desire to learn more about Niyazov, it’s not really worth the entrance fee.

12. Independence Square

Here you will find the gold statue of President Niyazov alongside warrior Turkmen, the independence monument and a series of landscaped gardens and fountains.

13. Ruhnama Monument

A giant, mechanised version of President Niyazov’s little green book located in the west of Independence Park, Ashgabat. Definitely one of the more interesting places to visit in Turkmenistan.

14. Kutlug Timur Minaret

A 60m (197 foot) minaret located in the ancient settlement of Konye Urgench. The minaret was built in 1011AD under the Khorezm/Khwarazm empire.

Visas for Turkmenistan

Visas for Turkmenistan are notoriously difficult to get and applications are routinely refused with no obvious reason. When I went, the tour company applied for four visas, and only two were granted (my friend and I were the lucky ones).

Turkmenistan Transit Visa

The Turkmenistan Transit Visa is valid from 3 to 7 days (usually 5 is given) and you must enter and leave the country at different border crossings; you CANNOT return to where you came from. You don’t need a letter of invitation (LOI) for the transit visa.

Documents Required:

• Completed application form • Cover letter with a detailed route • Passsport with 2 blank pages • Copy of visa for onward destination • One passport photo

You can download the application form and covering letter template here .

Turkmenistan Tourist Visa

Most visitors to Turkmenistan come on a tourist visa as the tour companies can issue a letter of invitation (LOI) and assist with the visa application process.

• Letter of Invitation (LOI) • Completed application form • Passport with 2 blank pages • One passport photo

You can download the application form here .

Internet Censorship in Turkmenistan

Just like nearby Iran, China and others Turkmenistan has a very tightly controlled internet. If you wish to stay connected to social media and news sites then you will need a VPN before you travel.

ExpressVPN is one of the best for travellers to Turkmenistan (I used it there with no problems and could access banned sites such as Facebook, Google etc).

A VPN is not just useful for getting around restrictions, but also should be a must for any traveller to secure your connections while you are on the move.

Buy Express VPN

How to get to Turkmenistan

There are three ways to reach Turkmenistan; by air, land and sea. Below we will outline each in more detail.

Turkmenistan by air: Turkmenistan’s primary international airport is located close to the city of Turkmenabat rather than the capital, Ashgabat. There aren’t a lot of airlines flying to the country, with flights coming predominantly from Russia.

Turkmenistan by boat: there is a weekly ferry/cargo service from Baku in Azerbaijan to Turkmenbashi in the west of the country. You can read all about how to make this trip in the Caspian Sea Ferry article.

Turkmenistan by land: There are border crossings with Afghanistan, Iran, and Uzbekistan. The border crossing between Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan has been closed since June 2018.

Getting Around Turkmenistan

The best way to get around Turkmenistan is to take a tour (one of the only ways tourists can actually visit the country). Most tour companies provide a 4X4 as Turkmenistan’s roads are pretty bad and the country is 90% desert.

For those crossing the country on a transit visa, marshrutkas (taxi vans with a fixed route) and buses are the main way to get around outside of the cities.

Military Checkpoints

Once you leave Turkmenistan’s main cities you will find military checkpoints on all major roads. Drivers must slow down, make eye contact with officials who will indicate whether you can carry on or need to pull over.

Is Turkmenistan Safe to Visit?

As with other police states, Turkmenistan is very safe for tourists and violent crime towards foreigners is almost unheard of. Falling foul of the country’s strange laws and corruption are some of the biggest dangers, along with the state of the roads and the harsh desert climate.

Do not criticize the current or former president or Turkmenistan’s political system. Avoid discussing politics altogether in public and in your hotel room which is probably bugged.

As with elsewhere in the former Soviet Union, it’s best to try and avoid interactions with the authorities as much as possible lest you be seen as an easy target for bribery.

Turkmenistan is a strange place indeed, but that makes it even more of an interesting destination for intrepid travellers. Given the country’s relative lack of tourists, it means you are likely to have most of the Turkmenistan tourist attractions all to yourself.

Read More about Places to Visit in Turkmenistan

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

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Turkmenistan – top 5 Places to Visit

#1 Ashgabat – Monumental capital city full of Marble and golden architecture

 #2 Darvaza – gas crater also known as a “Gate of Hell”

#3 YangyKala – surreal cliffs and landscape of canyons

#4 Merv – Ruins of an ancient city that was once one of the biggest cities in the world

#5 Gonur Tepe – one of the most ancient settled cities

If you would like to explore these places in a small group tour, you can join our Best of Turkmenistan Tour , or if you would like to organize a private tour that offers flexibility in terms of schedule and sightseeing places, just let us know through our booking form .

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Turkmenistan Tourist Attractions

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Best Tourist Places to Visit in Turkmenistan

Independence Park

The park is located in the southern outskirts of the city next to 10-Anniversary of Prosperity avenue and Archabil avenue. Its territory occupies 140 hectares which is almost half of all the Ashgabat green open space.Groomed paths marble stairs and porches flowerbeds and cozy benches are all necessary attributes of a recreation-and-entertainment park. But Independence Park is better known for its monuments located in its territory. Moving along the main alley with five-headed eagles-fountains and statues of national heroes you will go up by a wide marble stairs to the Independence Monument.This 118-m column topped by a crescent moon with five stars symbolizes the unity of five Turkmen tribes. The lower part of the monument is made in the form of a huge yurt which houses the Museum of Independence inside it.

Altyn Asyr bazaar

Oriental bazaar Altyn Asyr also known locally as Tze jygyldyk is the largest market in Turkmenistan and the fifth-largest in Central Asia. It is located in the outskirts of Ashgabat in the residential area Choganly. It was built to resemble the shape a Turkmen carpet ornament of Ahal Province.

NIKE Turkmenistan Berkarar Mall

Shopping and entertainment center Berkarar is located in the southern part of the city at the intersection of 10 Yil Abadanchylyk and Ataturk. The complex includes a 12-story round tower business center and adjacent to it a four-story shopping mall and parking lot for 1300 cars with canopies.

18 km to the west from Ashgabat there overlook the ruins of Nisa the capital of ancient Parthia existed at the turn of the I millennium BC and I millennium AD. In the III century BC New Nisa was the capital of Parthia and the Old Nisa fortress was an imperial residence at that time.Old Nisa was the place where palace and temple buildings were concentrated. There also located a treasury huge wine warehouse and storerooms with numerous stocks. The fortress walls were 8-9 m thick in their base and were strengthened with 43 rectangular towers.The latest find in Old Nisa a unique fresco fragment is a genuine masterpiece of Parthian pictorial art.The fortress at Nisa was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2007.

It is a natural underground lake. The name translated from Turkmen means father of caves. Located 100 kilometers from Ashgabat. The water temperature is from 33 to 38 C all year round.at a depth of 55m from the cave entrance is the underground lake. With a length of 70m and a depth of 10m or more the lake is known for the warm temperature of its water.The water also has a high mineral content prompting both claims about the health-giving properties of a swim and warnings that bathers should not stay in the water for too long. But the sulphurous smell from the lake coupled with the half- sensed presence of bats overhead also gives the place something of an underworld quality. The climb back towards the growing patch of light at the cave entrance can feel like the ascent towards salvation. Or at least towards a world less pungent.

Neutrality Monument

Monument of Neutrality is a monument originally located in Ashgabat Turkmenistan. In 2010 it was moved to the suburbs. The three-legged arch which became known locally as The Tripod was 75 metres tall and was built in 1998 on the orders of Turkmenistans President Saparmurat Niyazov to commemorate the countrys official position of neutrality. It cost 12 millio

Ashgabat National Museum of History

Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque

Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque is located about 7 kilometres west of the Ashgabat city centre. It was built in the home town of President Saparmurat Niyazov with a mausoleum in preparation for his death. The mosque has been at the centre of controversy as scriptures from both the Quran and the Ruhnama are built into the walls.

Erturul Gazi Mosque

Erturul Gazi Mosque or rtogrul Gazy Mosque is a mosque in Ashgabat Turkmenistan. It is named after Erturul the father of Osman I founder of the Ottoman Empire and was built by Hilmi enalp. It is a prominent landmark in Ashgabat with its four minarets and a central dome and has a lavish interior decoration with fine stained glass windows.

Darvaza Gas Crater

Darvaza gas Crater locally known as ‘Door to Hell’ or ‘Gates of Hell’ is a natural gas field collapsed into an underground cavern located in Derweze, Turkmenistan. Geologists set it on fire to prevent the spread of methane gas, and it is thought to have been burning continuously since 1971. The crater is a popular tourist attraction

Karakum Desert

Koneurgench

Merv is now known as Mary who was founded in the 6th century by Cyrus. It used to be an important archaeological site on the Silk Road, the part of old Persia. The town used to be alive with bustling cities and one of the largest cities in the world before the invasion of the Mongols which now remain as ruins

Mausoleum of Soltan Sanjar

Yangykala Canyon

Turkmenbashi

Caspian Sea

Russian Market

The Russian Bazaar or Gulistan in Ashgabat is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the Turkmenistan. It is located in the centre of the city.The Russian Bazaar was built in the period of 19721982 by the design of the Russian architect Vladimir Visotin among other buildings that were included in the Ashgabat Reconstruction Program of 1970-1980. The building was done in the Soviet Modernism style and decorated by the Turkmen sculptor Klych Yarmamedov who adored the building with a magnificent abstract sculpture placed in one of the buildings corners.

Ruhyyet Palace

Ruhyyet Palace is a palace in the capital, Asgabat in Turkmenistan, built by the French Company Bouygues. The palace holds official state events, forum, meetings and inaugurations

Konye Urgench, Khorezm Region

Konye Urgench is located on the left bank of the Daria River on the western part of Turkmenistan. It used to be the capital city of the Khorezm Region and destroyed by Ghengis Khan and water. But, irrespective of its past, the old town still remains strong with sites like Soltan Tekes mausoleum and Gutluk Temir Minaret.

The ancient city used to be an ancient settlement of the Iranian people. It was an important Parthian Empire in the city of Ashgabat which was completely destroyed by an earthquake occurred in the first decade BC. The ruins of this fortress are now inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sarakhs is located in Ahal’s province which was an important oasis on the Silk Road. The tomb of Sufi Abul Faz also known as Serakhs baba is also located in the city. It’s also a burial site of the famous Shiek Agmed Khady which goes by the name of Yarty Gumbez mausoleum.

The city is located near the Caspian Sea in western Turkmenistan which is supposed to be one of the most unusual cities in the country. There’s a lot of historical monuments that have survived in this city even though there’s not much of construction activity that’s taken place in the past till today.

Annau Archaeological Site

It’s on the Silk Road where the first excavations started in the year 1904. And, during this time there were many items found in the remnants such as remains of camels, children’s skeletons, pottery and decorations etc. From these remains, it is believed that it must have been the first place where camels were domesticated

Ashgabat City

Ashgabat city is the capital city of Turkmenistan and one’s the country’s largest city. It is home to the famous and largest mosque in Central Asia which is popularly known by the name Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque. There are several attractions one can find in and around the city such as the Wedding Palace, Turkmen carpet museum and many others

Abiverd Ancient Town

It is an archaeological site created in the year 1993 and has a collection of over 200 objects in the region of Akhal. It’s a medieval town which is often cited along with the sources of Nisa, especially since the Arab conquest. There are ruins of Turkmen village, traces of Seljuk found in this region

Things to Do in Turkmenistan

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Places To Visit in Turkmenistan

Here are the top 6 tourist places in turkmenistan, 1. ashgabat.

1 out of 6 Places to visit in Turkmenistan

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan is an interesting destination for travelers. It is located in Central Asia and is the capital of Turkmenistan. It is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and impressive monuments. It has a unique blend of Soviet and Islamic architecture.

Best Time: April - June, September - October

2 out of 6 Places to visit in Turkmenistan

Mary, the fourth largest city in Turkmenistan, is home to some of the country’s most important cultural and archaeological sites, including the ancient Merv. It is known for its mosques, bazaars, and the ruins of a fortress. It is also an important center for the traditional Turkmen arts and crafts.

3 out of 6 Places to visit in Turkmenistan

The Darvaza Gas Crater in Turkmenistan, also known as the 'Door to Hell', is a must-visit destination for all adventurous travelers. Located in the middle of the Karakum desert, Darvaza is a crater which has been burning continuously since 1971. The crater is about 230 feet in diameter, and the flam...

4. Dashoguz

4 out of 6 Places to visit in Turkmenistan

Dashoguz, located in the north of Turkmenistan, is a great place to explore for history, culture, and natural attractions. It is a relatively small city, but holds a rich and diverse history, as it was once part of the ancient Khorezm Empire. The city is home to some of the most impressive Islamic m...

5. Turkmenbashi

5 out of 6 Places to visit in Turkmenistan

Turkmenbashi, located in the eastern part of Turkmenistan, is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the culture and history of Central Asia. It is a city full of culture and tradition, with numerous sites of historical and architectural significance, as well as beautiful natural areas...

6. Konye-Urgench

6 out of 6 Places to visit in Turkmenistan

Konye-Urgench, a historical city in northern Turkmenistan, is a must-visit destination for travelers. Located near the border of Uzbekistan, the city is home to a few wonderful tourist spots and attractions such as the mausoleums of Turabeg Khanum and Il-Arslan, the minarets of Kutlug Timur and Sult...

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10 Countries Where AMERICANS Are Not Welcome Right NOW

Posted: April 27, 2024 | Last updated: April 27, 2024

10 Countries Where AMERICANS Are Not Welcome In 2024

Are you an American traveler looking to explore the globe? While the world is full of breathtaking destinations, there are some places where navigating entry or cultural norms can be particularly tricky for Americans in 2024. Join us as we delve into the top 10 countries where American adventurers might face challenges, from political complexities to diplomatic hurdles.

Venezuela, a South American nation famed for its striking natural beauty ranging from the Andes Mountains to the Caribbean coastline, has unfortunately been in the throes of a political and economic crisis for several years. Grappling with economic collapse and political instability, the country has become a dangerous destination for travelers. The US Department of State advises against all travel to Venezuela due to crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, kidnapping, and arbitrary arrest and detention of US citizens. Obtaining a visa can be complex due to the absence of Venezuelan embassies in the US, with applications often made through a third country.

Ongoing conflict, terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict make Libya a high-risk area for American tourists. The 2011 Libyan Civil War and the murder of the US ambassador during the Benghazi attack have strained US-Libya relations. Traveling to Libya on a tourist visa is discouraged due to safety concerns, with the US Department of State strongly advising against all travel to the country.

War-torn Syria presents significant risks for travelers, including terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict. The Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, has severely strained US-Syria relations. Obtaining a visa for Syria as an American is a complicated and lengthy process, with applications made through a third-country embassy. Despite its wealth of historical and cultural sites, including the ancient cities of Damascus, Aleppo, and Palmyra, the ongoing conflict has led to extensive damage and destruction, making travel to Syria strongly discouraged for safety reasons.

Turkmenistan

Known for its eccentric former president and the Flaming Door to Hell crater, Turkmenistan is a Central Asian nation with strict visa policies and limited diplomatic relations with the US. The government’s general weariness of foreign visitors, coupled with human rights and democracy issues, makes obtaining a tourist visa for Turkmenistan a challenging endeavor. Independent travel in Turkmenistan is almost non-existent, with tourists often required to book guided tours for the duration of their stay.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, governed under strict Islamic law, used to be a tough destination for American tourists due to restrictive visa policies. However, in 2019, Saudi Arabia launched a new tourist visa to attract foreign visitors as part of its Vision 2030 program. While Americans can now apply for a tourist visa online, there are still restrictions, particularly for women travelers. Women under the age of 25 must be accompanied by a family member during their visit, while women over 25 can travel alone.

Dubbed the “North Korea of Africa” due to its reclusive policies and autocratic governance, Eritrea presents significant challenges for American travelers. The US and Eritrea have strained relations, with issues including Eritrea’s human rights record and detention of US Embassy local employees. Obtaining a tourist visa for Eritrea is notoriously difficult, with approval often arbitrary and the processing time lengthy. Travelers are required to obtain a travel permit from the Eritrean government to explore areas outside the capital, further complicating travel plans.

While relations between the US and Cuba have improved over the years, travel restrictions persist due to the US embargo against Cuba, known as El Bloqueo. Americans can visit under authorized categories, such as family visits, journalistic activity, professional research, religious activities, public performances or competitions, and support for the Cuban people. Travelers must obtain a Cuban tourist card or visa, with most travelers able to get the tourist card through their airline when booking a flight to Cuba.

Known for its unique tourism policy aimed at protecting its environment and culture, Bhutan limits the number of tourists each year and requires a daily fee for American travelers. The policy, called high-value, low-impact, promotes sustainable tourism and contributes directly to the country’s welfare. While the fee may seem steep, it covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and a sustainable tourism royalty that goes towards education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in Bhutan.

Diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran make independent travel impossible for Americans. Travelers must book guided tours and adhere to strict itinerary requirements. Iran, brimming with historical sites and warm hospitality, offers guided tours ranging from general cultural experiences to specific interests such as culinary or adventure tours. The process to get there is anything but straightforward, with travelers required to obtain a special validation passport from the US Department of State.

North Korea

With its isolationist stance and strict political system, North Korea tops the list of countries Americans can’t easily travel to. Special validation passports are required for specific circumstances, such as for journalists covering the region or humanitarian aid workers. Following the heartbreaking case of Otto Warmbier, a University of Virginia student who was arrested and sentenced to 15 years of hard labor in North Korea, Americans wishing to travel to North Korea must navigate stringent restrictions and diplomatic hurdles.

Staying Informed

While these countries may present challenges for American travelers, it’s essential to stay informed and cautious when planning international trips. By understanding the complexities of each destination, travelers can make informed decisions and ensure a safe and memorable journey. Source: ContriButy

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