Turkmenistan

10 Best Places to Visit in Turkmenistan

26 May 2026Updated last time

Welcome to the Charm of Central Asia: Turkmenistan

Immerse yourself in the rich culture, intriguing history, and unparalleled sights of Turkmenistan. From the flaming Darvaza Gas Crater, historical ruins of ancient cities like Konye-Urgench, Merv, Nisa, and Dehistan, to the colourful landscapes of Yangykala Canyons, your journey will cover a spectrum of experiences you can't find anywhere else on the planet.

Explore Ashgabat, the marble-clad capital city unlike any other, visit the largest mosque in Central Asia, Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, and take a dip in the therapeutic waters of Kow Ata Underground Lake. Every corner of Turkmenistan has a unique story to tell, and we will make sure you don't miss a single tale. Hop on, let's unravel the mysteries hidden in the sands of Turkmenistan.

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  • 1

    Darvaza Gas Crater

    Also known as the 'Door to Hell', this is a natural gas field set alight by geologists in 1971 to prevent the spread of methane gas. It has been burning continuously since then and offers a truly extraordinary sight, particularly at night. It's like witnessing a firey pit straight out of an dystopian novel.
    Darvaza Gas Crater
    Darvaza Gas Crater
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    Darvaza Gas Crater
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    Darvaza Gas Crater
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    Darvaza Gas Crater
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    Darvaza Gas Crater
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    Darvaza Gas Crater
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  • 2

    Konye-Urgench

    It is a UNESCO World Heritage site rich with history and tradition. The many ancient ruins, mausoleums, and architectural monuments present a glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient city that once stood as a hub of Islamic learning.
    Konye-Urgench
    Konye-Urgench
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    Konye-Urgench
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    Konye-Urgench
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    Konye-Urgench
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    Konye-Urgench
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    Konye-Urgench
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  • 3

    Merv

    Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Merv once was one of the great cities of the Islamic world and an important stop on the Silk Road. Although what remains now are ruins, these structures, streets and city layouts still tell a fascinating story of the life that once thrived in this desert city.
    Merv
    Merv
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    Merv
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    Merv
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    Merv
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    Merv
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    Merv
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  • 4

    Gonur Tepe

    Once the capital of the Bronze Age Margush or Margiana region, it's one of the most important archaeological sites in Turkmenistan. The area is surrounded by gigantic walls and includes royal tombs, temples, and residential areas, showing some unique insights into ancient civilization.
    Gonur Tepe
    Gonur Tepe
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    Gonur Tepe
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    Gonur Tepe
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    Gonur Tepe
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    Gonur Tepe
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  • 5

    Ashgabat

    The capital and the largest city of Turkmenistan is famous for its lavish marble palaces, golden monuments, and neatly landscaped gardens. It's also known for having the highest number of marble buildings in the world and provides an eccentric cityscape that is one of the kind.
    Ashgabat
    Ashgabat
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    Ashgabat
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    Ashgabat
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    Ashgabat
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    Ashgabat
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    Ashgabat
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  • 6

    Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque

    It's Central Asia's largest mosque accommodating up to 10,000 worshippers. The mosque is an impressive showcase of Turkmenistan’s post-independence architectural style. The golden domes, minarets and the beautifully scripted Quran verses on the walls make it a must-visit.
    Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
    Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
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    Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
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    Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
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    Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
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    Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
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    Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
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  • 7

    Nisa Ancient City

    A UNESCO World Heritage site, Nisa Ancient City gives you a glimpse into the past. The remnants of this Parthian city feature an array of architecture and artifacts, displaying the sophistication of the early civilization that once inhabited the region. The site offers a unique historical journey for any history buff.
    Nisa Ancient City
    Nisa Ancient City
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    Nisa Ancient City
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    Nisa Ancient City
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    Nisa Ancient City
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    Nisa Ancient City
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  • 8

    Yangykala Canyons

    Often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of Central Asia', Yangykala Canyons offers beautiful landscapes with multi-coloured rock formations due to the unique erosional features. The visual spectacle these canyons offer during sunset is something you don't want to miss.
    Yangykala Canyons
    Yangykala Canyons
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    Yangykala Canyons
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    Yangykala Canyons
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    Yangykala Canyons
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    Yangykala Canyons
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    Yangykala Canyons
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  • 9

    Dehistan

    Dehistan is a reminder of the ancient civilization that once stood in Turkmenistan. The ancient city ruins, amidst the stark desert landscape, will take you back to the blossoming life that flourished here during the 8th to 14th centuries. The area has remained largely unexcavated, making it a true mystery for explorers.
    Dehistan
    Dehistan
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    Dehistan
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    Dehistan
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    Dehistan
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    Dehistan
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    Dehistan
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  • 10

    Kow Ata Underground Lake

    Kow Ata Underground Lake, also known as Kov-Ata, is a unique natural wonder in Turkmenistan. This subterranean lake is located in a cave and its lukewarm, highly mineralized water is believed to have therapeutic properties. Besides, the journey through the intriguing stalactite-adorned cave to reach the lake adds to the whole thrilling experience of the visit.
    Kow Ata Underground Lake
    Kow Ata Underground Lake
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    Kow Ata Underground Lake
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    Kow Ata Underground Lake
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    Kow Ata Underground Lake
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    Kow Ata Underground Lake
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    Kow Ata Underground Lake
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Restaurants

  • Picture for Altyn Paradise Garden Restaurant
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    Altyn Paradise Garden Restaurant

    W9RW+C7C, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
    A recently highlighted Ashgabat spot that has been described as a favorite meeting place for families and friends, with live music and a broad menu that leans into the kind of lively, social dining that tends to drive online buzz. It fits the kind of place people share on Instagram and short-form video because of its upscale garden setting and “night out” appeal.
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    • Picture for Eyvan Café
      Trending now

      Eyvan Café

      5X2C+82, Gokdepe, Turkmenistan
      This café was reported as a new opening in Ashgabat and was specifically tied to Instagram presence, making it the stronger “recently opened, early buzz” pick versus a long-established classic. Its Turkmen-Turkish menu and mall location make it the kind of place that gets shared quickly on social media.
      4.5
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      • Picture for Yildiz Hotel Restaurant

        Yildiz Hotel Restaurant

        2002/5 (Bagtyyarlyk), 17, Aşgabat, Turkmenistan
        Located in the revolving dome of a fancy hotel, it offers panoramic views of Ashgabat. Cuisine includes both local and western dishes.
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        • Picture for Altyn Asyr

          Altyn Asyr

          W9GF+588, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
          Amazing traditional Turkmenistan food with occasional live music performances.
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          • Picture for Shirin

            Shirin

            Новый Куртлы, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
            A perfect place to try Turkmen sweets while sipping on traditional tea.
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            • Picture for Café Agush

              Café Agush

              W9XF+P7F, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
              Renowned for its high quality and rich tasting coffee.
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              • Picture for Zam-Zam

                Zam-Zam

                A great place to try local foods such as plov and manti, they also serve some delicious kebabs.
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                • Picture for Monara Restaurant

                  Monara Restaurant

                  This floating restaurant provides a unique dining experience with stunning views of the lake.
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                  • Picture for Café De Paris

                    Café De Paris

                    A nice restaurant to take a break from local cuisine and enjoy French meals.
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                    • Picture for Firyuza Restaurant

                      Firyuza Restaurant

                      Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
                      Offers authentic national cuisine in a traditional Turkmen interior. Try their special Firuza rice.
                      4.2
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                      Hotels

                      • Yyldyz Hotel

                        2002/5 (Bagtyyarlyk), 17, Aşgabat, Turkmenistan

                        This five-star hotel is shaped like a teardrop and has a revolving restaurant at the top, offering panoramic views of the city.

                        • Turkmenbashi's Ruhyet Palace

                          W9JM+JMR, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

                          This hotel and conference hall is unique for its extravagantly opulent decor.

                          • Hotel Aýly

                            Magtymguly Ave 141/1, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

                            Located in the city center of Ashgabat you will find modern design blended with traditional touches.

                            • Archabil Hotel

                              Arçabil şaýoly 54, Aşgabat, Turkmenistan

                              Luxurious rooms, gourmet restaurants, a beautiful swimming pool - all in an unusual pyramid-shaped building.

                              • Ak Altyn Plaza Hotel

                                Magtymguly Ave 141/1, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

                                This four-star hotel has comfortable rooms offering a unique blend of European quality and Turkmen traditions.

                                • Hotel Nusay

                                  Galkynysh St 70, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

                                  Located directly next to the Presidential Palace, the hotel offers a unique and mesmerizing view of Ashgabat's skyline.

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                                  Travel Gems from Reddit

                                  • Best Places to Visit in Turkmenistan | Travel Guide (2023) | ...

                                    /r/TravopoGuides

                                    We cannot provide a description for this page right now

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                                  • Recs for a visitor to Ashgabat?

                                    /r/Turkmenistan

                                    The most unique city I have been blessed to visit - Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

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                                  • What would you recommend to go (aside from the darvaza crater) if I go Turkmenistan?

                                    /r/Turkmenistan

                                    Id recommend trying to bargain down the number of visits to monuments in Ashgabat with your guide to as low as possible. They all look similar, are almost always empty and get...

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                                  • Visiting Turkmenistan

                                    /r/Turkmenistan

                                    The horses are worth to be visited. Standing out. Finally if you had a chance, contact to the carpet assembly and take some carpets as souviners. If the price is not a problem...

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                                  • Is Turkmenistan worth it?

                                    /r/travel

                                    A friend of mine who works for a tour company that specializes in travel to more unusual/high risk countries is trying to organize a tour to Turkmenistan. Id love insight from...

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                                  • Do you want to travel to Turkmenistan?

                                    /r/AskCentralAsia

                                    Also we try to personalize the tours based on the travelers interest so that we dont take you to the places that might not interest you. ... Arrival+departure to/from Ashgabat...

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                                  • Recommendations for tour guides in Turkmenistan? Preferably that are knowledgeable about ancient history and the Silk Road.

                                    /r/solotravel

                                    Failure to do so may result in a removal or ban. If you've never contributed positively to this sub or Reddit overall before being banned, your chance of a successful app...

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                                  • Tour company Turkmenistan incl. Merv. Recommendations?

                                    /r/travel

                                    Thus: are there other preferably European tour companies that offer 8-16 day tours to Turkmenistan, gas crater and ample time at Merv/other historical sites nearby are a must....

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                                  • Travel to Turkmenistan

                                    /r/AskCentralAsia

                                    Is it possible to visit Turkmenistan without a guide and if it is, is it easy to get around and see the main sights? Also, how is the weather there in June/July? ... Yes, many...

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                                  • Travel tips to Ashgabat?

                                    /r/Turkmenistan

                                    However, this doesn&#x27;t mean that <strong>traveling</strong> <strong>to</strong> <strong>Turkmenistan</strong> is impossible. If you do decide to visit, I genuinely believe...

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                                  • Anyone recently go to Turkmenistan?

                                    /r/solotravel

                                    For me seeing some of the ruins (places like Merw, Knergen, and Nisa) was a necessity, so getting a bit longer tour allowed me to do just that. Perhaps it&#x27;d be easier for...

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                                  • Has anyone here ever been to Turkmenistan?

                                    /r/travel

                                    All relatively speaking as a budget traveler whos never taken tours, this was higher per day spending than Im used to, but I really wanted to see Turkmenistan! Would recommend...

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