AyDor Travel
Пустыня Каракумы и газовый кратер Дарваза в Туркменистане
TURKMENISTAN

Turkmenistan

White-marble cities, the Karakum desert and the legacy of the Great Silk Road.

Turkmenistan brings together ancient Silk Road cities, the vast Karakum desert and the striking modern architecture of Ashgabat. Travellers come to see the burning Darvaza gas crater, the ruins of Merv and Nisa, the Yangykala canyons, the famous Akhal-Teke horses and centuries-old traditions of Turkmen hospitality.

Country Fact Sheet

Visa
Most travellers require a visa and a Letter of Invitation (LOI). AyDor Travel supports the process end to end.
Language
The state language is Turkmen. Russian is widely understood; English is mainly used within the tourism sector.
Currency
Turkmen manat — TMT. Cash is especially important, as international cards are accepted only in limited places.
Time zone
UTC+5.
Best time
March–May and September–November.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage is available in cities but can be unstable outside them. Access to some online services is restricted.
Transport
Cars, domestic flights and trains connect the regions. Distances between the main sights can be significant.
Safety
Follow local rules, keep to the agreed programme and ask permission before photographing official buildings.

Traveler's Memo

  1. 01Bring US dollars or euros in good condition — cards and ATMs are not available everywhere.
  2. 02In mosques and mausoleums choose clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
  3. 03Do not photograph government buildings, military sites or officials without permission.
  4. 04The Karakum desert can be cold at night even after a hot day — bring a warm layer.
  5. 05Drink bottled water and keep a small reserve during long drives.
  6. 06Carry a copy of your passport, visa and migration documents.

Top Places

  • Ashgabat
    The white-marble capital with monumental architecture, museums, parks and modern avenues.
  • Darvaza Gas Crater
    A burning crater in the middle of the Karakum desert, most striking after sunset.
  • Ancient Merv
    One of the great cities of the Silk Road and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Old Nisa
    Ruins of the ancient Parthian capital at the foot of the Kopetdag mountains.
  • Konye-Urgench
    Medieval mausoleums and minarets that survive from the historic centre of Khorezm.
  • Yangykala Canyons
    Multi-coloured rock walls and desert panoramas in western Turkmenistan.

Culture & Traditions

Hospitality is one of the core values of Turkmen culture. Guests are given the seat of honour and offered food, and respect for elders is taught from childhood. Handwoven carpets, silver jewellery, Akhal-Teke horses and Alabai dogs are an important part of the national heritage. Nowruz is widely celebrated in spring, and folk music, crafts and horse traditions keep the country connected to its nomadic past.

National Cuisine

  • Plov
    Rice with meat, vegetables and spices, prepared in a variety of regional styles.
  • Dograma
    A traditional dish of meat, flatbread and rich broth.
  • Ishlekli
    A closed meat pie, traditionally baked to a crisp crust.
  • Gutap
    Thin turnovers filled with herbs, pumpkin or meat.
  • Green tea
    The everyday drink and an essential part of welcoming guests.
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