A guide to Turkmenistan
Things to do in Turkmenistan Travel to the mysterious Turkmenistan, one of the lesser visited destinations in central Asia. The country features
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- Turkmenistan
- Overview
- Private Travel
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Turkmenistan holidays by Cox & Kings
Lying in the southwest corner of Central Asia and once at the crossroads of civilisation, Turkmenistan offers its visitors more than first meets the eye.
From the magnificent squares and opulent palaces of its capital, Ashgabat, and the historic sites of the legendary Silk Road to the vast deserts and the awesome canyons of Yangikala, Turkmenistan will warmly welcome those who wish to discover its fascinating past.
Explore Turkmenistan
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Key facts
- Capital Ashgabat
- Currency Turkmen New Manat
- Flying time from London 8.5 hours
- Official language(s) Turkmen
- Time difference +5 GMT
- Visa requirements Visa required for UK passport holders
The Turkmenistan Experts
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Top things to do in Turkmenistan
Visit Merv
The ancient oasis-city of Merv is one of the oldest and most important stops along Central Asia’s Silk Road. From its early beginnings as a trade centre more than 4,000 years ago, Merv flourished to reputedly become the third largest city in the world. Fantastically well preserved, today the city is a Unesco world heritage site where visitors can explore the gigantic ramparts and ruined buildings of this once-great city.
Discover Kunya Urgench
Discover Kunya Urgench Kunya Urgench lies near the Uzbekistan border and was once considered one of the Islamic world’s most important cities before it was destroyed by Mongol warrior Genghis Khan and later by Turkish-Mongol leader Tamerlane. Nevertheless, there remain many sites of historic interest, including the 12th-century mausoleum of Arslan II and the audience chamber of the royal palace. At 60 meters high, the Kutlug-Timur minaret, dating back to the 11th century, is the tallest in Central Asia.
Marvel at the Darvaza Gas Crater
Marvel at the Darvaza Gas Crater Sometimes referred to as ‘The Door to Hell’, the Darvaza Gas Crater is a 60m x 20m chasm, which has burned in the heart of the Karakum desert for the past four decades. It is the result of a gas exploration accident that occurred in 1971. To prevent the resultant escape of poisonous gas from the underground cavern, geologists decided to light it, hoping that the fire would consume all the gas within a few days – but it has been burning ever since.
See the canyons of Yangikala
See the canyons of Yangikala Discover the dramatic red rock formations of the Canyons of Yangikala, which means ‘fiery fortresses’ in Turkmen.
Wander Tolkuchka Bazaar
Browse the famous Sunday market – Tolkuchka Bazaar – in Ashgabat’s desert, one of Turkmenistan's most popular visitor attractions selling everything from red Turkmen rugs, silks, jewellery and handicrafts to camels and foodstuffs.
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Mrs Christine Gregory
Travel in Central Asia
Find out more about what you can expect from travelling in Central Asia – from internal flights to accommodation standards and local transport.
Flying in style in Central Asia
Learn more about the airlines we use to fly to Central Asia, chosen for reliability and good service; as well as any available upgrade facilities.
Documents & health information for Central Asia
Before travelling to Central Asia, please read more about the entry requirements for each country, as well as any general health advice.
Climate in Turkmenistan
Discover the temperatures and rainfall you can expect when visiting the main areas of Turkmenistan, along with the best time to travel.
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