Tourism in Turkmenistan

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Asia / Central Asia

Tourist attractions

Darvaza Gas Crater (Door to Hell)

Region: Ahal Province, Karakum Desert

Nature

70m diameter natural gas crater burning continuously; spectacular red flames popular attraction.

Merv Ruins

Region: Mary Province

Cultural heritage

UNESCO World Heritage site of one of Silk Road's largest oasis city ruins.

Nisa Ruins

Region: Ahal Province

Cultural heritage

Early Parthian Empire royal capital ruins with circular fortress and storage structures.

Kunya-Urgench

Region: Dashoguz Province

Cultural heritage

Ancient city with iconic tall minaret symbolizing Islamic architecture.

Yangykala Canyon

Region: Balkan Province

Nature

Colorful layered cliff scenery called "Fire Fortress."

Kov-Ata Underground Lake

Region: Baharden

Nature

36°C sulfur hot spring lake in cave; swimming possible.

Avaza Tourist Coast

Region: Turkmenbashi

Modern architecture

Resort area developed along Caspian Sea coast.

Ashgabat Independence Monument

Region: Ashgabat

Modern architecture

118m tower with surrounding museum and fountain park illuminated at night.

Kugitang Nature Reserve (Dinosaur Footprint Plateau)

Region: Lebap Province

Nature

Limestone plateau with dense concentration of Mesozoic dinosaur footprint fossils.

Karakum Canal

Region: Ahal Province to Dashoguz Province

Modern civil engineering

World's largest irrigation canal spanning 1,300km.

Suggested itineraries

Desert and World Heritage Golden Route

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Ashgabat city tour, Nisa Ruins, Darvaza Gas Crater night view, Merv Ruins, Yangykala Canyon

Classic one-week course departing from capital combining historical ruins and natural landscapes.

Caspian Resort and Dinosaur Plateau Experience

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Avaza Coast, Turkmenbashi Port Market, Kugitang Nature Reserve, Kov-Ata Underground Lake

Family-friendly combination of Caspian Sea beaches and eastern highland adventure.

Carpet and Nomadic Culture Folk Exploration

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Turkmen Carpet Museum, Geok Tepe Fortress, Nomadic yurt stay experience, Hand-weaving workshop visit

Short-term plan to experience crafts and nomadic life, deepening understanding of traditional culture.

Travel tips

  • Tourist visa requires prior invitation letter; arrange through local travel agency
  • New US dollar bills easiest to exchange for cash
  • Be mindful of prohibited photography areas (military facilities, checkpoints)
  • Desert areas have large day-night temperature differences; bring both light and warm clothing
  • Credit cards almost unusable except at major capital hotels
  • Public Wi-Fi heavily regulated; prepare VPN in advance
  • Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are best tourist seasons
  • Tap water not potable; carry bottled water
  • Frequent road checkpoints; carry passport original
  • Women should wear clothing with minimal skin exposure as safe option
  • Most restaurants don't require tips but upscale venues 10% guideline
  • Sunglasses and scarves useful for sandstorm protection
  • Domestic flights have strict baggage restrictions; verify weight
  • Little English spoken in provinces besides Russian
  • When viewing Door to Hell, avoid standing downwind

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