Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The best things to do in Turkmenistan promise a journey through ancient ruins, surreal landscapes, and grand architecture. Explore the marble-clad capital, Ashgabat, where futuristic buildings meet rich history. Stand in awe at the Darvaza Gas Crater, a fiery pit burning for decades. Walk through the ruins of Merv, a UNESCO-listed Silk Road city. From the golden domes of Kunya – Urgench to the Caspian Sea, Turkmenistan offers a mix of history, culture, and natural wonders.
10 Amazing Things To Do In Turkmenistan
Experience the best of this remarkable country with our comprehensive list of the 10 most amazing things to do in Turkmenistan:
1. Explore Ashgabat’s Marble Architecture
Photo: Michael Karavanov / Wikimedia Commons
Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, is renowned for its extensive use of white marble in architecture. This has earned it the nickname “White Marble City.” Exploring this city is one of the best things to do in Turkmenistan. The city has the highest density of buildings covered in white marble, setting a Guinness World Record. Notable landmarks include the Independence Monument and the Golden Horse Monument, exemplifying intricate marble designs. The National Museum of History, housed in a grand white marble building, showcases over 500,000 artifacts.
Location: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
2. Witness The Darvaza Gas Crater
Photo: flydime / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the “Door to Hell,” the Darvaza Gas Crater is a cavern formed by the collapse of a burning natural gas field. This is close to Darvaza, Turkmenistan. The crater has been burning continuously since 1971, creating a surreal glow visible for miles at night. Measuring approximately 70 meters in diameter and 30 meters deep, it offers a unique spectacle in the heart of the Karakum Desert.
Location: Karakum Desert
Best Time To Visit: Spring or autumn evenings
3. Explore The Ruins Of Merv
Photo: Kalpak Travel / Wikimedia Commons
Merv, an ancient city on the Silk Road, was once among the world’s largest cities and a major center of commerce and culture. Today, its ruins span several archaeological sites, including Erk Kala, Gyaur Kala, and Sultan Kala. Each represents different eras of Merv’s history. These sites are among the best things to see in Turkmenistan. Visitors can explore remnants of grand mausoleums, mosques, and fortifications that narrate tales of the city’s past prominence.
Location: Mary Province
Best Time To Visit: April to May, September to October
4. Discover Yangykala Canyon
Photo: John Pavelka / Wikimedia Commons
Yangykala Canyon, often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” boasts striking formations of pink, red, and yellow limestone cliffs. These vibrant hues are especially captivating during sunrise and sunset, offering breathtaking vistas. The canyon’s remote location ensures a serene experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty without the crowds. Exploring the canyon’s depths reveals unique geological features shaped over millions of years.
Location: Balkan Province
Best Time To Visit: Spring or autumn for clear views
5. Discover Kunya – Urgench
Photo: Ljuba brank / Wikimedia Commons
Kunya-Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the capital of the Khorezm Empire and is home to several well-preserved monuments. Notable structures include the Kutlug-Timur Minaret, standing at 60 meters, making it one of the tallest in Central Asia. The Turabek Khanum Mausoleum showcases intricate tilework and architectural brilliance. Exploring the site offers insights into the region’s Islamic architecture and the city’s historical significance.
Location: Dashoguz Province
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
6. Swim In Kow Ata Underground Lake
Photo: Daniel Kraft / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Adventurers can consider a swim in the Kow Atat Underground Lake when planning what to do in Turkmenistan. Kow Ata, translating to “Father of Caves,” houses a subterranean lake renowned for its warm, mineral-rich waters. The cave’s entrance leads to a series of steps descending into a cavern illuminated by natural light filtering through openings above. The lake maintains a consistent temperature, making it suitable for swimming year-round. Locals believe in the therapeutic properties of the water, attributing health benefits to its mineral composition.
Location: Bäherden
Best Time To Visit: Year – round, early morning or evening
7. Unveil History At The Turkmen Carpet Museum
Photo: John Pavelka / Wikimedia Commons
The Turkmen Carpet Museum in Ashgabat showcases an extensive collection of handwoven carpets. These reflect the country’s rich weaving traditions. The museum houses the world’s largest handwoven carpet, measuring over 300 square meters. Exhibits detail the intricate patterns and techniques unique to various Turkmen tribes. Visitors can observe artisans at work, demonstrating the meticulous process of carpet weaving. The museum offers a deep appreciation for the cultural significance and artistry embedded in Turkmen carpets.
Location: Ashgabat
Best Time To Visit: Year – round, weekdays for fewer crowds
8. Wander Around The Parthian Fortresses Of Nisa
Photo: Hans Birger Nilsen / Wikimedia Commons
The Parthian Fortresses of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into the ancient Parthian Empire. The site features remnants of fortifications, temples, and halls dating back to the 3rd century BC. Excavations have uncovered numerous artifacts, including ivory rhytons and Hellenistic sculptures, indicating Nisa’s role as a cultural hub. The fortresses’ strategic location provides panoramic views of the surrounding plains, emphasising their historical military significance.
Location: Near Ashgabat
Best Time To Visit: Spring or autumn for pleasant weathery
9. View The Koytendag Mountains
Photo: Bayram A / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Koytendag Mountain range is home to Turkmenistan’s tallest peak, Ayrybaba, standing at 3,137 meters. The area is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, unique caves, and the largest known colony of bats in Central Asia. The region also features the famed Dinosaur Plateau, where fossilized footprints of prehistoric creatures are preserved. Hiking in Koytendag offers encounters with rare flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Location: Lebap Province
Best Time To Visit: April to October for hiking
10. Relax By The Caspian Sea In Avaza
Photo: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen / Wikimedia Commons
Avaza, Turkmenistan’s premier coastal resort, sits along the shores of the Caspian Sea, offering pristine beaches and modern leisure facilities. The area is part of a government-backed initiative to transform it into a world-class tourism hub. It features luxury hotels, entertainment centers, and waterfront promenades. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and yachting. Visiting this destination is definitely one of the best things to do in Turkmenistan.
Location: Avaza
Best Time To Visit: May to September for beach activities
Turkmenistan offers a mix of history, nature, and modern marvels, making it a hidden gem for travelers. Ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and architectural wonders add to its charm. Whether you seek adventure or cultural exploration, the things to do in Turkmenistan cater to all interests. With warm hospitality and untapped beauty, this Central Asian nation is waiting to be discovered. Plan your trip and uncover the secrets of Turkmenistan’s breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Roland Lin / Wikimedia Commons
