14 Unseen Tourist Places In Turkmenistan | How To Reach | Best Time To Visit

Turkmenistan is one of the most unique and least visited countries in Central Asia. Tourism in Turkmenistan is a fascinating blend of ancient history, rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery. As the country lies on the ancient Silk Road, tourists are drawn to the ancient cities of Merv and Kunya-Urgench, which are known for their ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

The country's biggest attraction is the Darvaza Gas Crater , also known as the "Door to Hell", which offers a unique experience of desert tourism. The capital of the Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, attracts travelers with its white marble architecture and magnificent monuments.

Although Turkmenistan has strict tourism regulations, tourists who visit it get to experience a different kind of hospitality in Turkmenistan.

Here are the top tourist places to visit in Turkmenistan, along with how to reach each destination :

1. Ashgabat

Main Attractions :

Independence Monument

Neutrality Arch

Turkmen Carpet Museum

Ertuğrul Gazi Mosque

How to Reach : Direct flights from Different cities in the world like Moscow, Istambul, Dubai and Almaty is available to Ashgabat International Airport. Ashgabat is well connected by local transport and train network to rest of major cities in the country.

2. Darvaza Gas Crater (Door to Hell)

Main Attractions :

How to Reach : The way towards Door To Hell is going through desert so usually book a tour vehicle which take 3 to 4 hours to reach.

3. Merv (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Main Attractions :

Ancient Fortresses

Mausoleums

Archaeological Ruins

How to Reach : Merv city is about 30 to 40 min away from Mary City. Domestic flights and train is available to Mary city and from there take a taxi to reach Merv by road.

4. Kow Ata Underground Lake

Main Attractions :

How to Reach : From Ashgabat take a taxi Or tour vehicles to Bakharden region which is one hour from Ashgabad.

5. Avaza (Caspian Sea Coast)

Main Attractions :

How to Reach : Domestic flights are available from Turkmenbashi Airport which is near to Avaza and direct trains in overnights are available from Ashgabat to Turkmenbashi.

6. Konye-Urgench (UNESCO Site)

Main Attractions :

Kutlug Timur Minaret

Tekesh Mausoleum

Ruins Of The Ancient Khorezm Empire

How to Reach : The nearest city to Konye-Urgench is Dashoguz which having Domestic Airport and train. From their take a taxi which take 30 to 40 in reach the destination.

7. Yangykala Canyon

Main Attractions :

How to Reach : To reach Yangykala Canyon take a 4×4 taxi from Turkmenbashi which take 3 to 4 hours to reach but it is best to visit with a tour vehicle due to remote desert roads.

Best Time To Visit

March to May (Spring) : At this time the temperature is mild ranging in between 15°C to 25° C.

The deserts bloom with wildflowers and this season is comfortable for visiting Ashgabat, Darvaza Gas Crater, Merv and Yangykala Canyon.

September to November (Autumn) : During this time the temperature is ranging in between 12°C to 28°C which is comfortable for exploring historical and natural landscape. At this time the sky is clear with cold wind.

Main Festivals

1. Nowruz Bayram

Significance : This festival is celebrated or 21 March every year. This is the most important traditional festival in Turkmenistan celebrated all over country.This festival marks the beginning of Persian new year and arrival of the spring. In this festival people gather together and celebrate with dance, music, horse races and traditional dishes for food.

2. Independence Day

Significance : This festival is celebrated or 27 September which is Turkmenistan Independence Day from Soviet Union in 1991. Celebration take place with Military Parades, Fireworks, Cultural Shows and exhibition in Ashgabat.

3. Oraza Bayram (Eid al-Fitr)

Significance : This festivals marks the end of Ramadan. In festival people visits their relatives, exchange sweets which other, make Charity and take part in community meals.

4. Kurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha)

Significance : This is also a significant muslim religious festival in which people gather and involving in prayers, sacrifices animal and distribute Charity and meat to poors.