Travel and rest in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is a country with rich historical heritage, located in Central Asia. Its lands witnessed the formation of ancient civilizations, great conquests and the formation of a unique culture.

Main activities and employment of the population.

Turkmenistan is a country with a unique combination of traditional and modern activities. The main employment of the population is associated with agriculture, extraction of natural resources, the public sector and private business.

1. Agriculture

Agriculture remains a key sector of the economy and employment, especially in rural areas.

2. Oil and gas industry

Turkmenistan has one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world. The gas industry is the main source of export income of the country. The main buyers are China, Russia, Iran.

3. Public sector

The state controls most areas of the economy, including energy, transportation, trade, health care, and education. The majority of the population works in the budget sphere.

4. Trade and small business

Although entrepreneurship in the country is limited, in recent years small business has developed:

• Private shops and markets.

• Construction companies.

• Tourism (developed in the coastal city of Avaza).

5. Crafts and traditional occupations

• Carpet weaving – Turkmen carpets are famous all over the world.

• Jewelry is a traditional silver jewelry.

• Pottery, wood carving.

Religion

Islam is the main religion

The majority of the population professes Sunni Islam (Hanafi madhhab).

• Religion plays an important role in cultural and family life, but the state controls religious activities.

• Officially, Turkmenistan is a secular state, and the level of religious activity is lower than in neighboring countries.

Other religions

• The country has small communities of Shia, Christians (Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant), and Baha'is.

• The Russian Orthodox Church is represented by the Moscow Patriarchate.

Population interests and lifestyles

1. Family and traditions

2. National dress and traditions

3. Sport and entertainment

• National sport - horse racing and wrestling (kuresh).

• Football, cycling, wrestling and athletics are popular.

• Recently, interest in martial arts and chess has been developing.

4. National cuisine

Turkmen cuisine is similar to Central Asian cuisine, but has its own characteristics:

• Plov (chorekli palov) is the main festive dish.

• Churek is a traditional bread baked in tandyra.

• Barbecue, manty, lagman.

• Camel milk (chal) and green tea are traditional drinks.

5. Music and dance

• National music is instrumental (dutar, gopuz are used).

• Popular folk dances and modern pop directions.

Conclusion

The main employment of the population is associated with agriculture, the gas industry and the public sector. Islam plays an important role, but Turkmenistan remains a secular state. In everyday life, residents honor traditions, engage in sports, music and family affairs, and preserve national crafts.

Why is it worth visiting Turkmenistan?

1. The majestic architecture of Ashgabat – the “white marble city”

The capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, is known for its futuristic architecture, abundance of white marble and unusual monuments:

• Independence Square is decorated with monuments symbolizing the history of the country.

• The Arch of Neutrality is a grandiose 95-meter tower with a golden statue of Turkmenbashi.

• The largest complex of fountains in the world (according to the Guinness Book of Records).

• Golden statues and luxurious palaces are striking in their scale.

Ashgabat is a city that is especially beautiful at night, when its buildings are illuminated with colorful lights.

2. Ancient cities of the Great Silk Road

Turkmenistan is a real paradise for history lovers, as here are the oldest cities in the world:

• Merv is one of the largest cities of the medieval East, which existed for more than 2000 years. It was the most important node of the Great Silk Road. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Kunya Urgench is the former capital of the Khorezm state with impressive minarets, mausoleums and mosques of the XIII century. Kutlug-Timur Minaret is one of the highest in Central Asia (62 m).

• Nisa is the ancient capital of the Parthian kingdom (III century BC), which reveals the secrets of ancient civilization to travelers.

3. Natural wonders and unique landscapes

Turkmenistan amazes with its diverse nature - from desert expanses to mountain ranges.

• The Darvaza Gas Crater ("Gate of Hell") is one of the most unique places in the world. This giant burning crater attracts travelers with its mystical atmosphere, especially at night.

• The Kopetdag Mountains are a picturesque place for trekking, picnics and nature observation.

• The Karakum is one of the largest sand deserts in the world, ideal for camel safaris.

• Kugitang Mountains – a place where fossilized dinosaur footprints are preserved!

• The Caspian coast (Avaza) is a modern resort with luxury hotels and beaches.

4. Turkmen culture and traditions

A trip to Turkmenistan is an acquaintance with ancient traditions and hospitable residents.

• Turkmen carpets are one of the most beautiful in the world, with unique patterns and handmade.

• National holidays - Novruz (spring equinox), Carpet Day and horse racing on Akhal-Teke.

• Akhal-Teke horses – the pride of the country, graceful and fast, are considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

5. Delicious and distinctive cuisine

Turkmen cuisine combines culinary traditions of nomads and oasis farming.

• Plov (chorekli palov) is a hearty dish of rice, meat and carrots.

• Shashlik is a delicate meat cooked on coals.

• Churek is a traditional bread baked in tandyr.

• Chal is fermented camel milk, an unusual and refreshing drink.

• Kazy is a traditional horse sausage.

Conclusion

Turkmenistan is a country with unique architecture, rich history and amazing nature. Although traveling here requires preparation, it will leave an unforgettable impression. Tourists are waiting for majestic ancient cities, fantastic desert landscapes, the burning crater of Darvaza and acquaintance with traditional culture, in which centuries-old traditions and modernity intertwine.

 

In the country of Turkmenistan, you will be greeted by private guides and will be offered author's, individual excursions. travel agencies Turkmenistan will offer its services and organizetourInteresting excursions for travelers.

 

Assessment of transport infrastructure, restaurants, hotels and services in Turkmenistan.

Turkmenistan is a country with a developing tourist infrastructure, focused primarily on business travelers and official delegations. However, there are both luxury hotels and restaurants as well as more affordable options.

1. Transport in Turkmenistan

Public transport

• Buses run in Ashgabat and large cities, but it is more convenient to travel by taxi.

• Shooting is a budget option, but less comfortable.

• The subway is missing.

Taxi.

• Official taxis (e.g. "TurkmenTaxi") as well as private drivers are available.

• In Ashgabat, a taxi is a convenient option, the price depends on the distance (an average of $1-3 per short trip).

Rail transport

• Trains connect the main cities: Ashgabat – Turkmenabat – Mary – Turkmenbashi – Dashoguz.

• Comfort is moderate, but it is an economical option for travel.

Air traffic

• The main airport is Ashgabat International Airport (modern, built in 2016).

• Domestic flights connect Ashgabat with Turkmenbashi, Mary, Turkmenabat and Dashoguz.

2. Hotels in Turkmenistan

The country is dominated by state-owned hotels, and the level of service varies from luxury 5-star to economical options.

Luxury hotels (5 ★) – $150-300 per night

1. Yyldyz Hotel (Ashgabat) is the best hotel in Turkmenistan, located on a hill, with panoramic views of the city, a spa, a swimming pool and restaurants.

2. Oguzkent Hotel (Ashgabat) is a five-star hotel with an elegant design, suitable for business tourists.

3. Berkarar Hotel (Avaza, Turkmenbashi) is a premium hotel on the Caspian Sea, with beaches, swimming pools and a water park.

Average level (3-4 ★) – $50-120 per night

1. Nusay Hotel (Ashgabat) is a cozy hotel with good service, suitable for long stays.

2. Sport Hotel (Ashgabat) is a comfortable and budget option for tourists.

3. Nebitchi Hotel (Avaza) is popular among family travelers, with a swimming pool and beach area.

Economy hotels and guest houses – $15-50 per night

1. Ashgabat Hotel is an inexpensive option in the center of Ashgabat.

2. Kuwwat Hotel is a budget hotel with basic comfort.

3. Guesthouses and mini-hotels – There are not many private hotels in Turkmenistan, but guesthouses can be found in rural areas.

3. Restaurants and cafes in Turkmenistan

Turkmen cuisine combines Central Asian traditions, and restaurants offer both national dishes and European cuisine.

Luxury restaurants (expensive – $50-100 per person)

1. Altyn (Ashgabat) is a restaurant with exquisite Turkmen cuisine, a good wine menu and live music.

2. "Garaşsyzlyk" (Ashgabat) is an elite restaurant in the center of the capital, which serves European dishes and steaks.

3. "Caspian" (Avaza) - a restaurant overlooking the Caspian Sea, seafood and author's cuisine.

Average level (from $15-50 per person)

1. Merdem (Ashgabat) is a restaurant with traditional Turkmen and Uzbek cuisine. Popular among locals.

2. "Bagtyýarlyk" (Ashgabat) - a good selection of Turkmen and Oriental dishes at reasonable prices.

3. Şazoda (Turkmenabat) is a restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and a large selection of dishes.

Budget cafes and diners (up to $15 per person)

1. Chayhans ("Cayhana") are traditional cafes serving plov, kebabs, lagman and green tea.

2. "Tamdyr" - cafe with pastries, samsa and national cakes.

3. Street food - popular donors, samsa, pastries and shawarma.

4. Other services (banks, shops, internet, tourist facilities)

Banks and payments

• In Turkmenistan, cash payments are mainly used, as bank cards are accepted in limited ways.

• The currency is Turkmen manat (TMT). Exchange is possible only in official banks.

Internet and mobile communications

• The internet is slow and limited (many websites are blocked).

• SIM cards from Altyn Asyr are available, but 4G coverage is available only in major cities.

Shops and markets

• There are modern supermarkets in Ashgabat, but in the province trade is conducted in bazaars.

• Gulistan (Russian Bazaar) is a popular place to buy souvenirs, spices and Turkmen carpets.

Conclusion

Turkmenistan is a country with developed but controlled infrastructure. Luxury hotels, restaurants and comfortable transport are available for tourists, but budget options can also be found. However, travel requires careful preparation, especially in terms of visa, cash and internet access.

Turkmenistan is suitable for lovers of adventure, history and unusual places, as well as for those looking for unique experiences away from mass tourism.

The main attractions of Turkmenistan and their transport accessibility.

Turkmenistan is a country with a rich historical heritage and amazing natural objects. Here you can see the ancient cities of the Silk Road, a futuristic capital, mysterious desert landscapes and even the “Gates of Hell”. The availability of these places depends on their location – the capital’s attractions are easy to visit, and remote sites require more complex logistics.

1. Ashgabat – capital of marble and futuristic architecture

How to get there: Ashgabat International Airport receives flights from Moscow, Istanbul, Dubai and other cities. Inside the city it is convenient to travel by taxi.

The main attractions of Ashgabat:

• The Arch of Neutrality is a 95-meter monument with a rotating gilded statue of the first president.

• Independence Square is a majestic ensemble of government buildings and monuments.

• Turkmenbashi Rukhy Mosque is the largest mosque in the country, located in the suburbs of Gökdepe.

• Ashgabat TV Tower is the highest structure in Turkmenistan (211 m) with an observation platform.

• The zoo and the Botanical Garden are interesting for nature lovers.

Availability: Excellent - the city infrastructure is developed, there are taxis and buses.

2. Darvaza Gas Crater ("Gate of Hell") - Fire Wonder of the Desert

How to get there:

• Located in Karakum, 270 km from Ashgabat.

• You can get there by SUV (4-5 hours one way), better with a guide.

• Buses do not run, the train will take only to the nearest station, from there you need a transfer.

What to see:

• The huge crater, burning for more than 50 years, is particularly impressive at night.

• The surroundings are sand dunes of Karakums, a place for camping.

Availability: The average is only private transport, the roads are not perfect.

3. The ancient city of Merv is one of the oldest in the world (UNESCO)

How to get there:

• Train or plane to Mary city (380 km from Ashgabat).

• From Mara - taxi (30 km).

What to see:

• Ruins of an ancient metropolis inhabited from the V century BC. e.

• The mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar is the only well-preserved building of the XII century.

• The remains of the fortresses Kyoshk, Big and Small Gyzgala.

Availability: Good - comfortable train / plane, taxi from Mara.

4. Kunja-Urgench – the medieval center of Khorezm (UNESCO)

How to get there:

• Flight or train to Dashoguz (550 km from Ashgabat).

• From Dashoguz - taxi (100 km).

What to see:

• Minari Kutlug-Timura (62 m) is one of the highest in Central Asia.

• The mausoleum of Turabek-Khanym is unique colored mosaics of the XIV century.

• The Mausoleum of Najmeddin Kubra is a holy place for Muslims.

Availability: The average is a plane/train, then a taxi.

5. Nisa, the ancient capital of Parthia (UNESCO)

How to get there:

• 15 km from Ashgabat, you can get there by taxi (20-30 minutes).

What to see:

• The ruins of the capital of the Parthians, one of the powerful states of antiquity.

• Remains of palaces, temples, fortifications of the III century BC.

Availability: Great – a short taxi ride.

6. Kopetdag Mountains – Nature and Trekking

How to get there:

• 30-50 km from Ashgabat, available by taxi or rented car.

What to see:

• Yangi-Kala Canyon - picturesque "flamming" rocks.

• The Kugitang Mountains are a place where fossilized dinosaur footprints have been preserved.

• The village of Kov-ata is an underground hydrogen sulfide lake with warm water (+37 ° C).

Availability: A taxi or a car is good.

7. Avaza – a resort on the Caspian Sea

How to get there:

• Flight to Turkmenbashi (from Ashgabat - 1 hour).

• From the airport - taxi (10 km).

What to see:

• Beaches, hotels, water park, sea walks.

• Luxury embankments, yacht clubs, restaurants.

Availability: Great flight and taxi.

Conclusion

Easily accessible (up to 1 hour on the way): Ashgabat, Nisa, Kopetdag, Avaza.
Average availability (3-5 hours on the way): Merv, Kunya-Urgench, Darvaza.
Hard to reach (need an SUV): Karakum, Yangi-Kala.

Turkmenistan offers unique natural and historical attractions, but some require complex logistics. It is best to travel by plane between cities and then take a taxi or private transport.

Main holidays, festivals and events.

1. National holidays of Turkmenistan

Many of them are accompanied by mass events, concerts and parades.

• Independence Day (27 September)

  • The country's main holiday.

  • Parades, fireworks and concerts are held in Ashgabat.

  • Admission to many museums is free.

• Neutrality Day (12 December)

  • Day dedicated to the status of neutrality of Turkmenistan.

  • Military parades, mass celebrations.

• Nauryz (New Year according to the Eastern calendar) (March 21)

  • National treats (sumalac, pilaf, cakes).

  • Dancing, music, horse racing and folk games.

• Carpet Day of Turkmenistan (last Sunday of May)

  • Carpet exhibitions, weaving workshops.

  • The Turkmen Carpet Museum operates in Ashgabat.

• Horse Day (last Sunday of April)

  • Dedicated to the Turkmen Akhal-Teke horse.

  • Horse racing, exhibitions.

• Day of Turkmen melon (second Sunday of August)

  • Festival in Ashgabat, tastings, agricultural fair.

• Harvest Day (second Sunday of November)

  • Fairs, competitions of national dishes, culinary master classes.

2. Sports events and horse racing

Turkmenistan is known for its love of equestrian sport.

• Spring and Autumn Horse Races (April and September)

  • Taken at the Ashgabat racecourse.

  • International competitions.

• Turkmen National Sports Games (August)

  • Fighting, tug-of-war, camel racing.

3. Musical and cultural festivals

Concerts and cultural events are held mainly in Ashgabat.

• International Music Festival "Golden Age of Turkmen" (October)

  • Performers from different countries participate.

  • Traditional and modern music.

• Turkmen Film Festival (November)

  • Screening of national films.

  • Master classes and meetings with directors.

• Folk Art Festival (June)

  • Performances by folklore ensembles.

  • Craft fairs.

• New Year concerts (December)

  • Organized in Ashgabat and large cities.

  • Great light show and fireworks.

4. Resort events in Avaza (Caspian Sea)

The best time to relax is from June to September.

• Beach Sports Festival (July) - competitions in volleyball, football.

• Musical shows on the waterfront - in the summer there are local artists.

• Festival of Turkmen cuisine (August) - tasting of national dishes.

Conclusion

Best time to travel: spring and autumn – comfortable temperature, many holidays.
Best activities: Independence Day, Nauryz, Carpet Day, Akhal-Teke horse racing.
In summer – a beach holiday in Avaza.
In winter, visit historical monuments without heat.

Thus, Turkmenistan offers cultural and sports events throughout the year.

 

Climate of Turkmenistan by seasons and the best time to travel.

Turkmenistan is a country with continental and arid climate. Summer is very hot here, and winter can be cool. The most comfortable seasons for travel are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the temperature is favorable for excursions and outdoor activities.

Climate by season

Spring (March-May) is the best time to travel

• Air temperature:

  • March: +10... +20°C

  • April: +15... +28°C

  • May: +20... +33°C

• Water temperature in the Caspian Sea: +12 +18°C

• Features:
  The most comfortable time for excursions, nature, hiking in the mountains.
  The flowering of the Karakum desert is an unusual sight.
  The main holiday is Nauryz (March 21), Carpet Day (May).
  In May, it can already be hot (up to +35 ° C in the desert).

Summer (June-August) - heat, but suitable for a beach holiday and

• Air temperature:

  • June: +30... +40°C

  • July: +35... +50 °C

  • August: +33... +45 oh C.
• Water temperature in the Caspian Sea: +22 +28°C
• Features:
  Excellent time to relax in the resort of Avaza (Caspian Sea).
  Melon festival (August), beach entertainment.
  It is too hot in the desert and cities (+45...+50°C).
  Traveling to historic sites and mountains is not recommended because of the heat.

Autumn (September-November) – a comfortable time for excursions

• Air temperature:

  • September: +25... +35 oh C.

  • October: +18... +30°C

  • November: +10... +22°C

• Water temperature in the Caspian Sea: +20 ... +24 ° C (September), +16 ... +18°C (November).

• Features:
  Warm weather, great for trips to Karakum, Merv, Darvaza.
  Moderate heat allows you to travel comfortably.
  Independence Day (27 September) is the main holiday of the country.
  In November, it gets cold in the mountains, at night it can be +5 ° C.

Winter (December-February) - better for excursions, but not for nature

• Air temperature:

  • December: 0... +15° C.

  • January: -2... +10°C

  • February: +2... +12°C

• Water temperature in the Caspian Sea: +10 +12°C

• Features:
  Suitable for excursions to Ashgabat, Merv, Nisa.
  Cool but comfortable weather for exploring historical sites.
  In the mountains there are snowfalls, temperatures up to -5 ° C.
  It is cold in the desert at night (-5...0°C).
  Not suitable for a beach holiday.

The ideal time to travel:
Spring and autumn are the best combination of mild weather and cultural events.
Summer is only for recreation on the Caspian Sea.
Winter - for excursions to historical sites.

If you want to see the flowering desert, festivals and comfortable weather, come in spring or autumn!

Language of communication, traditions and rules of behavior in Turkmenistan.

Turkmenistan is a country with a unique culture, traditions and strict laws. It is important for travelers to consider local customs to avoid misunderstandings and feel comfortable.

Language of communication

• The official language is Turkmen

• Russian is widely spoken, especially among the older generation and in cities.

• In touristic places and large hotels, staff can understand English, but the knowledge of foreign languages is limited.

• Useful phrases in Turkmen:

  • Sallam! - Hello!

  • Sag boluň! - Thank you!

  • Bagyşlaň! - Excuse me!

  • Bu näçe? - How much is it?

  • Men ýolagçy - I'm a tourist.

Council: If you do not speak Turkmen, it is better to know at least basic phrases in Russian – you will understand it almost everywhere.

Traditions and customs

1. Respect for elders and tradition n

• In Turkmenistan, it is customary to respect the elders - to give way, to greet the first.

• When meeting, a handshake is only possible between men. Women simply nod their heads with a smile.

2. Clothing and appearance

• There are no official restrictions, but in public places it is advisable to avoid too revealing clothes.

• Women are advised to cover their shoulders and knees, especially in rural and religious settings.

• Turkmen women often wear national dresses and headscarves, but foreigners do not have to.

3. Shoes in the house

• Take off your shoes at the entrance.

• If invited to the house is a sign of respect, do not refuse.

4. Hospitality

• Turkmens are very hospitable and can invite for tea.

• Refusing food is considered impolite.

• Hands are washed before meals, a tradition associated with Islam.

5. Religious norms

• Most Turkmen are Sunni Muslims, but Islam is moderate.

• Drinking on the street and during Ramadan is unacceptable.

• They enter the mosque without shoes, men in long pants, women with their heads covered.

Important laws and restrictions

What's strictly forbidden?

1. Photographing Government Buildings

   • You can’t shoot the president, military installations, airports, embassies.

   • If you are photographing people, you should ask permission first.

2. Smoking and alcohol

   • Smoking is prohibited in public places (streets, parks, cafes).

   • Alcohol is sold but cannot be consumed on the street.

3. Government criticism

   • Political topics are best avoided, especially in public places.

4. VPN and Internet

   • Access to social networks is limited (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube).

   • VPNs are officially banned, but some tourists use them.

5. Drugs.

   • Even a small number is a serious crime (up to 20 years in prison).

Useful advice to tourists

Best Behavior: Respect tradition, be polite and not attract too much attention.
Always carry official documents (passport, visa) - checks are possible.
Money - exchange is better done in banks, the rate is fixed.
Taxi - there are no official applications, negotiate the price in advance.

Conclusion

Turkmenistan is a country with ancient traditions, friendly people and strict laws. If you respect the local rules and culture, the trip will be comfortable and safe.