The Health Trail

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The Health Trail

Kopet-Dag mountains
Kopet-Dag mountains

In 1999, the Turkmen government initiated a grand construction project near Ashgabat, launching its own version of a «Health Trail» in the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains. The ceremonial opening of this trail took place on January 2, 2000. On that day, President Saparmurat Niyazov personally walked the entire 8 kilometers of the paved pathway. So impressed was he by the experience that he ordered the extension of the trail by an additional 28 kilometers, which was promptly completed. Later, the trail’s name was updated to include the word «Serdar» (leader), enhancing its significance.

Today, the 36-kilometer Health Trail has become one of Turkmenistan’s prominent attractions. The trail is frequented by tourists and local residents of Ashgabat who enjoy regular walks. The entire path, 5 meters wide, is paved with concrete. Handrails are installed in challenging areas, and lights are positioned every 12 meters along the trail. Several drinking water sources are available throughout, making it accessible for walks year-round and at any time of day, as it is fully illuminated. The highest point of the trail reaches over 1,000 meters above sea level.

From the park at the beginning of the Health Trail, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountains. The trail features modeled mountain streams, lakes, and waterfalls cascading from rocky slopes. The pedestrian route also offers impressive panoramas of Ashgabat, best viewed from gazebos that rise on rocky outcrops along the trail.

To reach the trail, take Bus No. 20 from the railway station or Bus No. 21 from Tekin Bazaar. The 20th bus is particularly recommended as it travels along Archabil Highway and passes several landmarks, including the Constitution Monument, the Ferris Wheel, and Flag Square. The bus terminates in the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains.

Health Trail: The Gindivar Section

The first section of the Health Trail, known as «Saglyk ýoly,» was inaugurated on January 2, 2000. This 8-kilometer segment stretches along the Gindivar Ridge, a rugged formation rising above the surrounding landscape.

Under the canopy of pine trees, this section climbs to an elevation of 760 meters above sea level. It is adorned with sculptural installations that depict the mountain’s nature and its inhabitants. At the western end of the trail, near the low-rise residential area of Bagir, lies the historical reserve with the ancient cities of Old and New Nisa, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For centuries, people lived at the base of Gindivar, cultivating fields and drawing water from qanats and the Yanbash spring.

Health Trail: The Eastern Section with the Highest Point

The eastern section of the Health Trail, the second phase of «Saglyk ýoly,» opened on November 4, 2000. This part requires some time and effort as it ascends to an altitude of 1,040 meters above sea level, leading to the white marble tower of the «Turkmenistan» TV center. This structure is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records for having the largest star image in an architectural ensemble.

The trail around the TV tower is quite steep and demands more physical exertion. If you become fatigued, you don’t need to complete the entire eastern section. There are two side branches that provide routes for descending back to Kopetdag Avenue (formerly Geokdepe Highway).

Continuing another ten kilometers on the Health Trail brings you to the starting station of the Ashgabat Cable Car, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. This cable car is another popular tourist attraction in the Turkmen capital. In this area, the Health Trail meanders gently through the foothills, suitable for leisurely walks among the pines planted decades ago. The eastern end of the Health Trail is conveniently located near the urban area of Ashgabat on Chandebil Avenue.

Ashgabat

Ashgabat city tour

From$160
6 hours

Explore UNESCO-listed Old Nisa
Visit Spiritual Mosque, Central Asia’s largest
Discover history at National Museum
Visit Akhalteke horse stables
View Lenin Monument and surroundings

Explore Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital, on this immersive 6-hour tour. Visit ancient sites like Old Nisa, marvel at modern marvels such as the Spiritual Mosque, and discover the city's rich history and culture at the National Museum of History.
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