🇹🇲 Top Things to Do in Turkmenistan — Attractions & Experiences

When visiting Turkmenistan, you should not miss the unique combination of ancient history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences that the country has to offer, including its famous Darvaza Gas Crater, ancient city of Merv, and the white-marble-clad capital city of Ashgabat.

Top Attractions

Unique Experiences

• Take a guided tour of the Darvaza Gas Crater at night to see the stunning flames in the dark
• Learn about the traditional Turkmen carpet-weaving techniques and even try your hand at creating your own carpet
• Attend a traditional Turkmen wedding to experience the unique customs and traditions of the country
• Visit a nomadic family and learn about their traditional way of life
• Take a camel ride through the stunning landscapes of the Karakum Desert
• Visit the Ashgabat Bazaar to try traditional foods and drinks, such as plov and shashlik
• Learn about the Akhal-Teke horse breed, which is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful horse breeds in the world

Outdoor & Nature

• Explore the stunning landscapes of the Karakum Desert, which covers over 70% of the country
• Visit the Kopet Dag Mountains, which offer breathtaking views and hiking opportunities
• Take a boat tour of the Caspian Sea, which is the largest enclosed inland body of water in the world
• Visit the Amu Darya River, which is one of the longest rivers in Central Asia
• Explore the Sultan Sanjar Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare Turkmenian wild ass

Cultural Experiences

• Visit the Ashgabat National Museum of History to learn about the country's rich history and culture
• Attend a traditional Turkmen music and dance performance to experience the unique customs and traditions of the country
• Visit the Kunya-Urgench Museum to learn about the history and culture of the ancient Khorezm Empire
• Take a cooking class to learn about traditional Turkmen cuisine, such as plov and shashlik
• Visit the Turkmen State Circus to see a unique blend of traditional and modern performances
• Explore the Ashgabat Bazaar to try traditional foods and drinks, such as plov and shashlik

Hidden Gems

• Visit the Abiverd Fortress, which is a 2,000-year-old fortress that features a unique blend of ancient and modern architectural styles
• Explore the Yangikala Canyon, which is a stunning canyon with breathtaking views and unique rock formations
• Take a guided tour of the Geok Depe Fortress, which is a historic fortress that played a significant role in the country's fight for independence
• Visit the Seyit Jemaletdin Mosque, which is a beautiful mosque that features a unique blend of traditional and modern architectural styles
• Explore the Ahal Province, which is home to a variety of natural wonders, including the Kopet Dag Mountains and the Karakum Desert

Day Trips

• Take a day trip to the Darvaza Gas Crater from Ashgabat, which is approximately 260 km and takes around 4 hours by car
• Visit the Ancient City of Merv from Mary, which is approximately 30 km and takes around 1 hour by car
• Explore the Kopet Dag Mountains from Ashgabat, which is approximately 100 km and takes around 2 hours by car
• Take a day trip to the Kunya-Urgench from Dashoguz, which is approximately 100 km and takes around 2 hours by car
• Visit the Amu Darya River from Turkmenabat, which is approximately 10 km and takes around 30 minutes by car

Planning Tips