What You Need to Know About Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan, located among the Central Asian Turkic republics, declared its independence in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The country, which operates as a Republic, is also a member of TURKSOY. 

Turkmenistan is bordered by the Caspian Sea to the west and shares borders with Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Afghanistan. Due to its predominantly desert terrain, the country is somewhat deficient in water resources. Temperatures can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius in the summer, while winter temperatures can drop to as low as -25 degrees Celsius. The local population works diligently to eliminate Soviet influence and pass on their national identity to future generations. As a country with a nomadic culture, Turkmenistan boasts a rich diversity both culturally and linguistically.

When to Visit Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is a country rich in both cultural and historical significance, attracting tourists particularly during specific months of the year. However, due to the desert-covered south and the harsh climate, there can be some restrictions on visiting. It is advisable to choose relatively cooler months for your visit. The best times to visit are in the spring or autumn.

How to Get to Turkmenistan

The fastest and safest way to reach the country is by air. Those traveling from Türkiye to Turkmenistan can choose from several flights offered by various airlines. There are non-stop flights from many Turkish airports to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. The journey takes about 4 hours.

Must-See Places in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is home to many historical structures, as well as mosques, museums, and natural monuments that reflect the region's culture. Therefore, it is important to make an effort to see the most significant sites before visiting Turkmenistan. Here are some must-see places:

Independence Monument

One of the country's iconic structures, the Independence Monument, is located in the capital, Ashgabat. The design of the building draws inspiration from the traditional hats worn by Turkmen girls and traditional Turkmen tents. The monument, which stands out with its unique architectural style, is a must-see for tourists visiting Turkmenistan. Constructed in 1991, the 27-meter golden gilded steel structure along with the 91-meter tall monument symbolizes the country's independence. Inside the monument, there is a museum displaying Turkmenistan's historical and cultural heritage.

Nisa Ancient City

The ancient city of Nisa, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in Bagir Village, 18 kilometers south of Ashgabat. Its roots trace back to around 250 BCE. Archaeological excavations have uncovered many sections of this necropolis city. The excavations have also led to the discovery of written documents, tombs, and temples from the period. As the oldest ancient city in the region, it is a must-visit for anyone interested in history.

Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque

The Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, notable for having the largest dome in Central Asia and the world, is one of the country's landmark structures. It is also considered the central place of worship in the country. Located in the city of Kipchak, this famous mosque opened in 2004. With its impressive architecture and grandeur, it is one of the places of worship that captivates visitors.

Gonur Depe

One of the country's most important archaeological sites, Gonur Depe, spans an area of 55 hectares. Dating back to 2500 BCE, the site features numerous temples believed to be dedicated to the Zoroastrian religion. Discovered by Greek-Russian archaeologist Viktor Sarianidi, the site also includes more than 150 ancient Bronze Age settlements.

The Door to Hell

The Door to Hell crater, one of the country's most significant natural formations, has been active for over 40 years. It gets its name from its eerie appearance. Despite this, tourists thoroughly enjoy visiting the site. The crater, which is 69 meters wide and 30 meters deep, is located in the middle of the Kara Kum Desert. It is a must-see for those traveling to Turkmenistan.

Turkmen Carpet Museum

Located in central Ashgabat and operating since 1994, the Turkmen Carpet Museum showcases the country's significant cultural values. Carpet weaving and its associated values are a part of Turkmenistan's rich culture. Many of the carpets in the museum are antique items. The museum has two floors, featuring a variety of handmade carpets including Tekke and Sarik carpets. One of the Tekke carpets on display is listed in the Guinness World Records as the world's largest handmade carpet. It is one of the museums worth visiting in Turkmenistan.

Mary Museum

Another significant museum in the city, the Mary Museum, is also located in Ashgabat. The museum displays artifacts from the country's ancient history to the present day. Opened in 1968, it exhibits a wide range of items from ceramic statues to ancient clothing, jewelry, and oriental miniature items. Notable exhibits include an ivory mosaic-decorated box from 2000 BCE, which is sure to interest visitors.