Culture and Traditions of Turkmens

Touch down at Ashgabat International Airport, where your dedicated guide awaits to streamline the arrival process. They’ll expertly assist with visa formalities, PCR test payments, and migration fees, making your entry into this fascinating country effortless and stress-free. A comfortable transfer to your hotel follows, allowing precious time for rest and rejuvenation after your travels.

At 12:00, embark on an exhilarating introduction to the capital of Turkmenistan—the dazzling White Marble Ashgabat, a city that epitomizes modernity fused with tradition. Begin at one of the city’s oldest markets, affectionately known as the “Russian Bazaar”—the bustling state trade center “Gulistan.” This vibrant hub draws visitors with its array of souvenirs, dried fruits, fresh vegetables and fruits, aromatic spices, and exquisite national clothing, offering a tantalizing glimpse into local commerce and craftsmanship.

After a delightful lunch, immerse yourself in history at the National Museum of History, where exclusive ancient artifacts and treasures from diverse historical eras and archaeological sites of Turkmenistan come to life before your eyes.

As evening descends, continue your exploration of the “City of Love” (Ashgabat, derived from Persian عشق (eshq “love”) and آباد (ābād “inhabited place,” “city”)). Your sightseeing itinerary includes the majestic Wedding Palace “Bagt Koshgi” (meaning “Palace of Happiness” in Turkmen), boasting panoramic views of the city; the towering Monument of Neutrality; serene Independence Park and its striking Independence Monument; the monumental Ruhnama Book Monument; and the world’s largest indoor Ferris wheel, Älem, for a thrilling perspective on the skyline.

Cap off your first day with a welcome dinner at the Paytagt Restaurant, savoring exquisite flavors while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the illuminated city.
Overnight in Ashgabat.
Accommodation: In a comfortable hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Rise and shine as you depart from the hotel at 08:00, heading to the picturesque village of Nohur (a scenic 140 km drive, approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival, dive into the heart of a traditional village, where warm, hospitable locals welcome you with open arms. Engage in meaningful conversations and savor authentic Turkmen dishes that capture the essence of home-cooked flavors. Explore the area’s rich tapestry, including the mystical Kyz Bibi cave and the tribal cemetery adorned with horns of mountain sheep on the tombstones, preserving echoes of pre-Islamic beliefs that add a layer of intrigue to your journey.
Deepen your cultural immersion by visiting a local family where the traditional keteni fabric—precious Turkmen silk—is still meticulously crafted. Watch as a skilled local craftswoman demonstrates the intricate manufacturing process, offering a rare window into age-old artisanal techniques.
Next, venture to Geok Tepe, home to a private horse farm renowned for breeding the legendary Akhal-Teke horses. Meet Ashir Aga, the passionate horse breeder, and enjoy fragrant tea while embarking on an exhilarating horse ride through stunning landscapes.
Return to Ashgabat for the evening.
Overnight in Ashgabat.
Accommodation: In a comfortable hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Today’s adventure begins with a drive to the village of Bagir, where you’ll explore the fortress of Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just 16 kilometers from Ashgabat’s center. As one of the earliest capitals of the Parthian Empire (III century BC – III century AD), Old Nisa stood at the crossroads of vital trade and strategic routes, serving as a formidable barrier to Roman expansion while fostering crucial communication and commerce between East and West, North and South. Wander through its ancient ruins and imagine the empire’s storied past.
From there, journey onward to the world-famous Darvaza gas crater (a 270 km drive, about 4 hours), ominously dubbed the “Gates of Hell” for its mesmerizing, fiery spectacle. Along the way, make two enriching stops in the desert village of Bokurdak, where you’ll connect with the daily lives of local semi-nomadic families. Become honored guests in a traditional Turkmen house, observing village activities such as felt-making, traditional embroidery, and the milking of camels—join in if you’re feeling adventurous! Participate in hands-on experiences like cooking “pishme,” a delightful traditional sweet treat made from yeast dough, and a master class on baking Turkmen bread “chorek.” For lunch, indulge in “ishlekli,” a savory meat puff cake baked in coals. Capture memories with a photo shoot in stunning Turkmen outfits, blending fun and cultural authenticity.
After 2-3 hours immersed in this vibrant community, resume your journey with stops at two fascinating craters featuring “turquoise water” and “bubbling mud,” adding natural wonder to your day. Arrive at Darvaza, where dinner awaits at the yurt camp, accompanied by a captivating bakhshi show. Bakhshi are revered masters of folk art—musicians and singers who tirelessly preserve Turkmen cultural traditions through their performances.
Following dinner, enjoy a magical photo session at the flaming Darvaza crater. Formed in the early 1970s when the ground collapsed during a Soviet gas drilling expedition, scientists intentionally set the gas alight to contain its spread, resulting in this eternal blaze that has burned ever since.
Overnight: Yurt stay, with basic but reasonable facilities
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Darvaza before embarking on the return journey to Ashgabat (270 km, about 4 hours). En route, pause in the village of Erbent to visit a poignant monument commemorating the end of the Basmachi movement struggles in Central Asia. Arrive in Ashgabat, check into your hotel, and prepare for more cultural delights.
Engage in a creative master class at the ART Upcycling studio KEŞDE, where you’ll craft jewelry and souvenirs with your own hands under the expert guidance of Sheker, the talented artist, designer, and studio founder. Unleash your inner artisan in this inspiring space.
Subsequently, admire one of Ashgabat’s architectural landmarks: the Ertogrul Gazi Mosque, commonly known as the Turkish Mosque for its resemblance to Istanbul’s Blue Mosque. This magnificent structure was gifted by Turkey to the Turkmens in honor of Ertogrul Gazi, the Turkmen leader and father of Osman, founder of the Ottoman Empire.
Overnight in Ashgabat.
Accommodation: In a comfortable hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Embark on an exciting day trip to Mary. Check out from your hotel in the morning and catch a morning flight to Mary at 06:20, arriving at 07:05. From there, drive to the village of Bayramali (31 km) to visit Old Merv, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. As one of Central Asia’s largest archaeological treasures, Merv has played a pivotal role in the Silk Road’s development for over 2,000 years, weaving tales of ancient civilizations and trade routes.
As you depart Merv, linger at the guest house “Traditional Turkmen Hearth,” where you’ll plunge into the vibrant culture of the Turkmens through an enchanting folk show that brings traditions to life.
Savor dinner at the guest house before transferring to Mary (a 30-minute drive), checking into your hotel, and settling in for well-deserved rest.
Overnight in Mary.
Accommodation: In a comfortable hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Begin with breakfast at the hotel, check out, and transfer back to Ashgabat (departing at 09:00, covering 350 km in about 4.5 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy free time for relaxation and reflection.
Then, discover the wonders at the Carpet Museum, where you’ll delve into the rich history of Turkmen carpet weaving. Marvel at the smallest carpet ever created, ingeniously designed to carry keys, and gasp at the world’s largest handmade carpet, spanning an astonishing 301 square meters—a true testament to craftsmanship.
Return to your hotel for more rest and personal time.
Overnight in Ashgabat.
Accommodation: In a comfortable hotel
Meals: Breakfast

As midnight approaches, check out from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your international flight. This marks the end of our services, but the memories of Turkmenistan’s culture, traditions, and breathtaking sights will linger forever. Safe travels and we hope to welcome you back soon!