Planning a trip to Turkmenistan requires careful consideration of your interests and itinerary. To help you structure your visit, here’s a general guide based on experiences from previous travelers:
Ashgabat – The Eccentric Capital Ashgabat, known for its unique monuments, marble-coated buildings, and luxurious amenities, offers a glimpse into modern Turkmenistan.
- Recommended Stay: 1 day
- Major Attractions: Carpet Museum, Arch of Neutrality, Independence Park
- Explore Beyond the Norm: Venture to the ruins of Anau and the Old Nisa Archaeological Site, or visit the historical Geok-Tepe Fortress and Mosque for a deeper historical perspective.
Kunya-Urgench (Near Dashoguz) – Medieval Capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site This ancient city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects Turkmenistan’s rich history.
- Recommended Stay: Half a day
- Major Attractions: Kutlug Timur Minaret, Kyrk Molla Hill, Fakhreddin Razi Mausoleum
- Explore Beyond the Norm: Spend the night in Dashoguz, a frequently missed gem, or observe local pilgrims at the religious sites to experience the area’s cultural richness.
Merv (Near Mary) – Silk Road Marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site Once one of the largest cities on the Silk Road, Merv holds significant historical and archaeological value.
- Recommended Stay: 2 days, especially if you plan to explore Merv, Mary, and nearby Gonur Depe
- Major Attractions: Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Askhab Mausoleums, Erk and Gyaur Kala
- Explore Beyond the Norm: Visit the ruins of Gonur Depe, or enjoy a peaceful stroll around Mary, including a visit to the Mary Historical Museum and local park.
Nokhur – Mountain Villages with Unique Customs Known for its distinctive dialect and traditions, Nokhur offers a glimpse into a unique mountain culture.
- Recommended Stay: Half a day, or overnight if you wish to immerse yourself fully
- Major Attractions: Gyz-Bibi Cave, Nokhur Cemetery, peak of the Kopet Dag Mountains
- Explore Beyond the Norm: Consider staying overnight at a guesthouse or sleeping under the stars. Also, visit the Geok Depe Horse Farm on your way back to Ashgabat.
Balkanabat Vicinity – Gateway to the Caspian Sea and Natural Wonders This region offers access to stunning natural landscapes and the Caspian Sea.
- Recommended Stay: 2-4 days
- Major Attractions: Awaza Caspian Sea Resort (2 days), Yangikala Canyon (half to full day), Trailblazers Monument
- Explore Beyond the Norm: Take day trips to Dekhistan city ruins or Tasharvat Caravanserai for a broader exploration of the area.
Turkmenabat Vicinity – Eastern Gateway and Second-Largest City Turkmenabat serves as an important regional hub and gateway to the eastern part of Turkmenistan.
- Recommended Stay: 1-1.5 days
- Major Attractions: Amul Settlement, Astana-baba Mausoleum, Lebap Regional Museum
- Explore Beyond the Norm: Explore the Dinosaur Plateau in Koytendag Reserve or visit Dayakhatyn Caravanserai on day trips.
Darvaza – The Gas Crater of the Karakum Desert Famous for its mesmerizing gas crater, Darvaza is a must-see natural phenomenon.
- Recommended Stay: Camp overnight to experience the crater in its most dramatic state after dark
- Major Attractions: Darvaza Gas Crater, nearby mud and water craters
- Explore Beyond the Norm: Capture stunning photos among the sand dunes or head north to Kunya-Urgench for more historical exploration.
Each destination in Turkmenistan offers its own unique experiences, and these recommendations provide a solid foundation for planning your visit to this fascinating and diverse country.
