Famous Landmarks in Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan, located in Central Asia, is a country steeped in history and known for its stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. With its rich heritage dating back to the Silk Road era, Turkmenistan offers travelers a unique blend of historical sites, traditional crafts, and nomadic traditions. Here, we will explore the top 10 famous landmarks in Turkmenistan, detailing their significance, practical information, and special features.
1. Darvaza Gas Crater (Door to Hell)
The Darvaza Gas Crater, often referred to as the “Door to Hell,” is one of Turkmenistan’s most iconic natural wonders. Located in the Karakum Desert, this fiery pit has been burning for decades, fueled by natural gas. The crater’s orange flames illuminate the night sky, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly spectacle that attracts adventurers and photographers from around the world.
Location:
The Darvaza Gas Crater is situated in the middle of the Karakum Desert, approximately 260 kilometers north of the capital city, Ashgabat.
Ticket Price:
There is no official entrance fee to visit the Darvaza Gas Crater, but visitors may need to arrange transportation and camping facilities through tour operators, which can vary in cost.
Nearby Airports:
The nearest airport to the Darvaza Gas Crater is Ashgabat International Airport, which serves domestic and international flights.
Nearby Railway Stations:
There are no railway stations near the Darvaza Gas Crater, as it is located in a remote desert region.
Special Attention:
Visitors should come prepared for camping in the desert, as there are limited facilities nearby. Additionally, the crater’s flames can be intense, so it’s essential to exercise caution and keep a safe distance from the edge.
2. Ancient City of Merv
The Ancient City of Merv, also known as Margiana, was once one of the most important cities along the Silk Road. Dating back over 2,500 years, it flourished as a center of trade, culture, and scholarship under various empires, including the Persian, Greek, and Islamic civilizations. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of ancient palaces, mosques, and fortifications, offering insight into Merv’s rich history.
Location:
The Ancient City of Merv is located near the modern town of Mary, in southeastern Turkmenistan.
Ticket Price:
The entrance fee to the Ancient City of Merv varies depending on the specific sites visitors wish to explore, typically ranging from TMT 10 to TMT 20.
Nearby Airports:
Mary International Airport is the nearest airport to the Ancient City of Merv, providing domestic flights within Turkmenistan.
Nearby Railway Stations:
Mary has its own railway station, offering connections to major cities such as Ashgabat and Turkmenabat.
Special Attention:
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and sun protection when exploring the extensive ruins of Merv, as the site covers a large area. Guided tours are available for those who wish to learn more about the history and significance of the ancient city.
3. Nisa Archaeological Site
Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the capital of the Parthian Empire, which ruled over much of Central Asia and the Near East from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. The archaeological site of Nisa is renowned for its ancient fortifications, palaces, and temples, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Turkmenistan’s past.
Location:
The Nisa Archaeological Site is located near the modern city of Bagir, approximately 18 kilometers west of Ashgabat.
Ticket Price:
The entrance fee to the Nisa Archaeological Site varies depending on the visitor’s nationality and age, typically ranging from TMT 10 to TMT 20.
Nearby Airports:
Ashgabat International Airport is the nearest airport to the Nisa Archaeological Site, providing domestic and international flights.
Nearby Railway Stations:
Ashgabat has its own central railway station, offering connections to major cities across Turkmenistan.
Special Attention:
Visitors to the Nisa Archaeological Site should be respectful of the ancient ruins and refrain from climbing on or touching the structures. Guided tours are available for those who wish to learn more about the history and significance of Nisa.
4. Kow-Ata Underground Lake
Kow-Ata, meaning “Father of Caves” in Turkmen, is a unique underground lake located in a limestone cave in the Kopet Dag Mountains. The lake’s mineral-rich waters are naturally heated by geothermal springs, making it a popular destination for swimming and relaxation. Visitors can float in the warm, turquoise waters of the cave, surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites.
Location:
The Kow-Ata Underground Lake is situated near the town of Baharly, approximately 100 kilometers northeast of Ashgabat.
Ticket Price:
The entrance fee to the Kow-Ata Underground Lake varies depending on the time of year and whether visitors wish to swim in the lake, typically ranging from TMT 10 to TMT 20.
Nearby Airports:
Ashgabat International Airport is the nearest airport to the Kow-Ata Underground Lake, providing domestic and international flights.
Nearby Railway Stations:
There are no railway stations near the Kow-Ata Underground Lake, as it is located in a remote mountainous area.
Special Attention:
Visitors should bring swimwear and towels if they plan to swim in the lake. The temperature inside the cave remains relatively constant throughout the year, but it’s advisable to check local conditions before visiting. Additionally, guided tours may be available for those who wish to explore the cave and learn about its geological features.
5. Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
The Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, also known as the Gypjak Mosque, is one of the largest mosques in Central Asia and a symbol of Turkmenistan’s Islamic heritage. Named after former President Saparmurat Niyazov, who was also known as Turkmenbashi (“Leader of the Turkmen”), the mosque features striking white marble domes and minarets, along with intricate tilework and calligraphy.
Location:
The Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque is located in the village of Gypjak, approximately 7 kilometers south of Ashgabat.
Ticket Price:
There is no official entrance fee to visit the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, but donations for maintenance and upkeep are appreciated.
Nearby Airports:
Ashgabat International Airport is the nearest airport to the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, providing domestic and international flights.
Nearby Railway Stations:
Ashgabat has its own central railway station, offering connections to major cities across Turkmenistan.
Special Attention:
Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque, as per Islamic customs. Women may be required to cover their heads with a scarf. It’s advisable to visit outside of prayer times to avoid disruptions and to respect the religious significance of the mosque.
6. Karakum Desert
The Karakum Desert, also known as the “Black Sand Desert,” is the largest desert in Turkmenistan, covering much of the country’s central and southeastern regions. Despite its arid and inhospitable terrain, the desert is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Turkmen kulan (wild ass) and the goitered gazelle. Visitors can explore the desert on guided tours, camel treks, or 4×4 excursions, experiencing its vast expanses of sand dunes and dramatic landscapes.
Location:
The Karakum Desert spans across central and southeastern Turkmenistan, with access points near the cities of Ashgabat, Mary, and Turkmenabat.
Ticket Price:
There is no entrance fee to visit the Karakum Desert, but guided tours and transportation may incur a cost.
Nearby Airports:
Ashgabat International Airport, Mary International Airport, and Turkmenabat Airport are convenient airports for accessing different parts of the Karakum Desert.
Nearby Railway Stations:
Ashgabat, Mary, and Turkmenabat have their own railway stations, providing connections to major cities across Turkmenistan.
Special Attention:
Visitors should come prepared for extreme temperatures and harsh conditions in the desert, especially during the summer months when temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F). It’s essential to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and protective clothing. Additionally, guided tours are recommended for safety and navigation in the vast desert landscape.
7. Nohur Lake
Nohur Lake, nestled amidst the Kopet Dag Mountains in western Turkmenistan, is a tranquil oasis known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities. Surrounded by lush greenery and rugged peaks, the lake offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and picnicking in a peaceful natural setting. Visitors can also explore nearby hiking trails and traditional villages, experiencing the hospitality of Turkmen rural life.
Location:
Nohur Lake is located near the village of Nohur, approximately 80 kilometers west of Ashgabat.
Ticket Price:
There is no official entrance fee to visit Nohur Lake, but visitors may need to pay for parking or use of facilities.
Nearby Airports:
Ashgabat International Airport is the nearest airport to Nohur Lake, providing domestic and international flights.
Nearby Railway Stations:
Ashgabat has its own central railway station, offering connections to major cities across Turkmenistan. From there, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Nohur Lake.
Special Attention:
Visitors should bring their own supplies, including food, water, and sunscreen, as there are limited facilities near Nohur Lake. It’s advisable to visit during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Additionally, be respectful of local customs and traditions when interacting with villagers.
8. Konye-Urgench
Konye-Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient city located along the Amu Darya River in northern Turkmenistan. Once a flourishing center of trade and culture along the Silk Road, it was known as Gurganj during the medieval period. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of mosques, mausoleums, and fortifications, including the Turabek-Khanym Mausoleum, the Kutlug-Timur Minaret, and the Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum.
Location:
Konye-Urgench is located near the town of Kunya-Urgench, approximately 100 kilometers north of Dashoguz in northern Turkmenistan.
Ticket Price:
The entrance fee to Konye-Urgench varies depending on the specific sites visitors wish to explore, typically ranging from TMT 10 to TMT 20.
Nearby Airports:
Dashoguz Airport is the nearest airport to Konye-Urgench, providing domestic flights within Turkmenistan.
Nearby Railway Stations:
Dashoguz has its own railway station, offering connections to major cities across Turkmenistan.
Special Attention:
Visitors should be respectful when exploring the ancient ruins of Konye-Urgench and refrain from climbing on or touching the structures. Guided tours are available for those who wish to learn more about the history and significance of the site. Additionally, it’s advisable to bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade in the open-air archaeological complex.
9. Gonur Depe
Gonur Depe, meaning “Hill of the Sacred Fire” in Turkmen, is an archaeological site located in the Murghab District of southeastern Turkmenistan. Dating back over 4,000 years, it was once a major urban center of the ancient Margiana civilization. Excavations at Gonur Depe have uncovered evidence of advanced irrigation systems, monumental architecture, and intricate artifacts, shedding light on the early history of Central Asia.
Location:
Gonur Depe is situated near the modern village of Anau, approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Mary in southeastern Turkmenistan.
Ticket Price:
The entrance fee to Gonur Depe varies depending on the specific sites visitors wish to explore, typically ranging from TMT 10 to TMT 20.
Nearby Airports:
Mary International Airport is the nearest airport to Gonur Depe, providing domestic flights within Turkmenistan.
Nearby Railway Stations:
Mary has its own railway station, offering connections to major cities across Turkmenistan.
Special Attention:
Visitors should be prepared for rugged terrain and extreme temperatures when visiting Gonur Depe, especially during the summer months. Guided tours are recommended for those who wish to explore the archaeological site and learn about its significance. Additionally, it’s essential to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and protective clothing.
10. Dashoguz
Dashoguz is a historic city located in northern Turkmenistan, near the border with Uzbekistan. Founded over 2,000 years ago, it has served as an important trading center along the Silk Road, connecting Central Asia with the Middle East and Europe. Today, Dashoguz is known for its archaeological sites, bazaars, and cultural heritage, including the ancient city of Konye-Urgench and the nearby ruins of Tashkent.
Location:
Dashoguz is located in northern Turkmenistan, near the border with Uzbekistan.
Ticket Price:
There is no official entrance fee to visit Dashoguz, but fees may apply for entry to specific attractions or guided tours.
Nearby Airports:
Dashoguz Airport serves domestic flights within Turkmenistan, providing access to the northern region of the country.
Nearby Railway Stations:
Dashoguz has its own railway station, offering connections to major cities across Turkmenistan.
Special Attention:
Visitors to Dashoguz should explore the city’s historic sites, including the ancient city of Konye-Urgench and the nearby ruins of Tashkent. It’s advisable to visit during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Additionally, be respectful of local customs and traditions when interacting with residents.
