Things to do in Turkmenistan

25 things to do in Turkmenistan

Listed in full below. The running order is set by votes and loads with the page.

• Watch the eternal flames at Darvaza Gas Crater

  Witness the surreal, fiery pit known as the 'Door to Hell' in the Karakum Desert, where natural gas has been burning since 1971.

  Darvaza, Karakum Desert

• Explore the ancient ruins of Merv

  Walk through the well-preserved remains of one of the oldest cities on the Silk Road, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with history spanning millennia.

  Mary Region

• Stroll through Ashgabat's white marble city center

  Admire the modern, gleaming white marble buildings and wide boulevards of Turkmenistan's capital, a unique urban landscape.

  Ashgabat

• Visit the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque

  See the largest mosque in Central Asia, featuring intricate designs and a serene atmosphere in the heart of Ashgabat.

  Ashgabat

• Trek through the Karakum Desert

  Embark on a desert adventure, experiencing the vast sand dunes and unique flora and fauna of one of the world's largest deserts.

  Karakum Desert

• Taste traditional Turkmen plov

  Savor the hearty national dish of rice, meat, and vegetables, cooked with aromatic spices in local eateries.

  Various cities

• Discover the Nisa archaeological site

  Explore the remains of the ancient Parthian capital, a UNESCO site with fortress walls and historical artifacts.

  Near Ashgabat

• Relax on the Caspian Sea coast in Turkmenbashi

  Enjoy the sandy beaches and coastal views of the Caspian Sea, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

  Turkmenbashi

• Attend a Turkmen carpet weaving demonstration

  Witness the intricate art of traditional carpet weaving, a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage, in workshops across the country.

  Various regions

• Ride the Alem Ferris Wheel in Ashgabat

  Take a ride on one of the world's largest enclosed Ferris wheels, offering panoramic views of the city's skyline.

  Ashgabat

• Visit the Gypjak Mosque and Mausoleum

  See the grand mosque and the mausoleum of the first president, located in his hometown, blending modern and traditional architecture.

  Gypjak

• Hike through Yangykala Canyon

  Marvel at the stunning red and pink rock formations of this hidden canyon in the desert, a photographer's paradise.

  Balkan Region

• Explore the historical site of Köneürgenç

  Wander among the mausoleums and minarets of this ancient city, another UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing medieval Islamic architecture.

  Dashoguz Region

• Enjoy Turkmen tea in a chaikhana

  Experience the local tea culture by sipping green tea with sweets in a traditional tea house, a social hub in Turkmenistan.

  Various cities

• See the Independence Monument in Ashgabat

  Admire the grand monument celebrating Turkmenistan's independence, featuring a tall tower and sculptures in the city center.

  Ashgabat

• Trek in the Kopet Dag Mountains

  Hike along the rugged trails of the Kopet Dag range, offering scenic views and a chance to spot diverse wildlife.

  Near Ashgabat

• Visit the Serdar Spiritual Mosque

  Explore this significant mosque in Ashgabat, known for its architectural beauty and spiritual importance to locals.

  Ashgabat

• Watch traditional Turkmen horse racing

  Experience the national sport of horse racing, where Akhal-Teke horses display their speed and grace at local events.

  Various regions

• See the ancient ruins of Urgench

  Visit the historical city of Urgench, which was a major center on the Silk Road, with remnants of its past glory.

  Dashoguz Region

• Explore the Mary Regional Museum

  Discover artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the Mary region, including items from ancient Merv.

  Mary

• Swim in the Köw Ata underground lake

  Take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters of this unique underground lake located in a cave near Ashgabat.

  Near Ashgabat

• Attend a Turkmen folk music performance

  Enjoy live performances of traditional music featuring instruments like the dutar and gidjak, often held in cultural centers.

  Ashgabat

• Visit the Teke Horse Farm near Ashgabat

  Learn about the famous Akhal-Teke horses at a breeding farm, seeing these elegant animals up close.

  Near Ashgabat

• See the Wedding Palace in Ashgabat

  Admire the ornate architecture of this venue used for civil ceremonies, reflecting Turkmenistan's modern aesthetic.

  Ashgabat

• Try traditional Turkmen bread (çörek)

  Taste the freshly baked round bread, a staple in Turkmen cuisine, often cooked in tandoor ovens.

  Various cities