Embark on an extraordinary journey to Merv, one of the oldest cradles of civilization in Central Asia. This one-day tour offers a deep dive into the rich history of a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires over three millennia. Merv, with its origins stretching back 3,000 years, was once a thriving metropolis on the Great Silk Road, serving as a major center for trade, culture, and craftsmanship. The remnants of this ancient city provide a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur of the Seljuk Empire and the vital role Merv played during the flourishing era of the Silk Road.
Today, Merv stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving the legacy of a civilization that was at the crossroads of East and West. This tour is not just a visit to ancient ruins but a journey through time, where every monument tells a story of a bygone era. From the towering Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum to the ancient fortresses of Gyz Gala and the remains of the city’s old walls, Merv offers a unique window into the past, where history and legend converge.
Your day begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Mary by your guide and driver. After a short drive of 40 km (approximately 30 minutes), you will arrive at Merv, the ancient city that was once a key hub on the Silk Road.
Explore the UNESCO-listed historical park, where you’ll visit the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Greater and Lesser Kyz Kala, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, and the Keshk Fortresses. Each site offers a unique perspective on the city’s rich history and its significance in the ancient world.
In the afternoon, you will visit the regional History Museum, where you can further immerse yourself in the artifacts and stories of Merv. The tour concludes with your return to Mary and a transfer back to your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this ancient city.
Duration: 5-6 hours
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist * | $250 | $150 | $120 | $100 | $80 |
Transportation throughout the tour Local English speaking guide Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary
Any Private Expenses Lunch Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance
The Merv tour was a fascinating journey through history. Seeing the ancient ruins and learning about the city’s significance along the Silk Road was incredible. The Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum was a highlight, with its majestic architecture and historical importance. The guide was knowledgeable, offering insights into the Seljuk Empire and the various fortresses we visited. I was also impressed by the visit to the regional history museum, which provided additional context to what we saw in the historical park. This tour is a must for anyone interested in history and culture.
Our day tour of Merv was an unforgettable experience. The ruins of this ancient city tell a story of a time when Merv was a bustling center of trade and culture. The Erk Gala and Gyaur Gala fortresses were particularly fascinating, and our guide did an excellent job bringing the history to life. The Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum left me in awe, especially considering its age and the craftsmanship involved. This tour provided a perfect blend of historical exploration and cultural insight. Highly recommend to history buffs and travelers alike!
Merv is truly a hidden gem. This tour was well-organized and packed with historical significance. Walking through the ruins, it was easy to imagine the grandeur of the city during its peak. The Large and Small Gyz Gala were especially interesting, and the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum was simply stunning. The visit to the history museum in Mary rounded out the tour nicely, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s past. If you’re in Turkmenistan, don’t miss this opportunity to explore one of the oldest cities in Central Asia.
I took the Merv tour with a few friends, and we were all blown away by the experience. The guide was passionate about the history of Merv, and it showed in every explanation. We explored ancient fortresses, learned about the Seljuk Empire, and marveled at the architecture of the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum. The history museum was also a highlight, offering artifacts and exhibits that gave more depth to the places we visited. This tour is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich history of Central Asia.