Turkmenistan

Travel Guide

The Kutlug-Timur minaret raises its column high above a vast flat plain of this UNESCO world heritage area.
Ashgabat is a city of white marble with very few people in evidence in the streets (admittedly it is hot right now). I think they must have revived Turkey's marble market single-handedly!
Alternatively called Derweze or the door to hell, this crater can be found in the Karakum desert of Turkmenistan, north of Ashgabat. While drilling in 1971, the Soviets tapped into this cavern filled with natural gas. They lit it thinking it would burn itself out in a matter of days. Not so, as you can see! It was mighty hot around the crater's edge, especially when there was a gust of wind. Can you see the people standing near the edge at the back in the middle? That will give you an idea of the size.
You can see the golden statue of the first president presiding over his children atop the Arch of Neutrality. He is facing the city of Ashgabat, while behind him are the mountains separating Turkmenistan from Iran. The arch of Neutrality confirms Turkmenistan's decision to stay neutral in any conflicts after they left the Soviet Union. You can take a ride up into the tower. Can you see the bottom lift on the right leg of the tower?
We were on our way from Konye-Urgench to Darvasa in Turkmenistan. It was mile upon mile of dusty desert terrain, but still there were grazing herds of sheep and goats.

Popular cities in Turkmenistan

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan - May 02, 2019: Modern architecture of Ashgabat. View of the modern district. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, May 02, 2019.
Ashgabat
Known for Musicals, Deserts and Horseback riding
Quaint Ashgabat awaits: its musicals, desert views, horseback riding, and more!
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mary turkmenistan historical site building dome
Mary
Known for Temples, Castle and Architecture
Love temples, castles, and culture? Get away to Mary!
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Alternatively called Derweze or the door to hell, this crater can be found in the Karakum desert of Turkmenistan, north of Ashgabat. While drilling in 1971, the Soviets tapped into this cavern filled with natural gas. They lit it thinking it would burn itself out in a matter of days. Not so, as you can see! It was mighty hot around the crater's edge, especially when there was a gust of wind. Can you see the people standing near the edge at the back in the middle? That will give you an idea of the size.
Derweze
Known for Deserts, Scenery and Natural parks
Explore Derweze: its desert views and more!
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Turkmenbashi
Turkmenbashi
Known for Swimming, Sea and Churches
Trip time! Discover the seaside, churches, and beaches in Turkmenbashi.
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Turkmenabat
Turkmenabat
Known for Churches, Cathedrals and Museums
Love churches and museums? Get away to Turkmenabat!
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Murgap
Murgap
Check out Seyrana—just one of the sights to explore around Murgap.
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Turkmenistan

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