Turkmenistan Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Turkmenistan? Main activities and attractions

Turkmenistan is home to a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. The ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into Silk Road grandeur and was once among the largest cities in the world. In the capital, Ashgabat, visitors are drawn to the gleaming white-marble architecture of buildings like the Neutrality Monument and the Turkmenistan Independence Monument. The archeological ruins of Nisa and the fortress complex of Kunya-Urgench also invite exploration. These sites offer a deeper understanding of the region’s Persian and Parthian legacy.

For nature lovers, the Darvaza Gas Crater, often called the “Door to Hell,” is an unforgettable highlight in the Karakum Desert. Other natural sites include the Yangykala Canyons and the Kopet Dag mountains. Culinary experiences in Turkmenistan are equally enticing, with dishes like plov (rice with meat), manty (stuffed dumplings), and chorba (local soup) providing cultural context. Visiting local bazaars adds color and authenticity to your travel to Turkmenistan, where hospitality remains a strong cultural value.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Turkmenistan

While highlights like Darvaza and Merv define Turkmenistan’s mainstream attractions, the country hides a wealth of lesser-known experiences that unveil its enigmatic charm. These sites are ideal for travellers craving authenticity far from the crowds.

The Yangykala Canyons in the western Balkan region are a geological marvel of colorful rock formations painted in hues of red, pink, orange, and white. Little visited due to remote location, they are best accessed via 4×4 journey from Turkmenbashi. At sunrise or sunset, the cliffs provide surreal photography opportunities.

Gonur Depe, a major Bronze Age archaeological site in the Murghab Delta, offers a look at the ancient Margiana civilization. Far from any major city, this dig site is an active excavation where ancient palaces and temples are exposed beneath the desert.

The Kow Ata Underground Lake, located inside a sulfur cave near Bäherden, is a favorite local weekend retreat. The naturally heated waters maintain 33–37°C and are believed to have therapeutic properties. A dive into its warm depths is both relaxing and unexpected.

Another offbeat highlight is paragliding over the Kopet Dag Mountains that straddle the Iranian border. Local operators offer tandem flights that reveal sweeping views over both Turkmen and Iranian scenery—an astonishing experience few have had.

Exploring these sites offers not only scenic reward but also reveals deep cultural insights and raw landscapes that make travel to Turkmenistan genuinely distinctive.

When to visit Turkmenistan? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Turkmenistan

📋 Formalities and visa

Almost all travelers, including EU, UK, and US citizens, need a visa to enter Turkmenistan. Tourist visas typically require an invitation letter from a government-authorized travel agency. The standard allowed stay is 10 to 21 days, and longer stays must be justified and approved. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the planned exit date.

🚗 Driving rules

Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. Foreigners must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their valid national license. Police checkpoints are common, and speed limits must be strictly followed. Fuel is cheap but stations are scarce in remote areas, so plan ahead when venturing outside cities.

🔌 Electricity

Turkmenistan uses Type C and F plugs (European standard), 220 V, 50 Hz. Travellers from outside Europe may need an adapter. Power outages may occur occasionally outside major cities.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Coverage is mostly limited to urban areas and highways. Altyn Asyr, the state telecom provider, is the only mobile operator. Buying a local SIM card is possible but often slow and bureaucratic. Internet access is highly restricted, and VPNs are commonly used by travelers.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Turkmenistan is considered safe for tourists, but the level of surveillance is high. Avoid border areas with Afghanistan, and always carry your documents. Police checks and restricted zones are common, especially around government buildings. The emergency number is 03 for medical help and 02 for police.

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Photography of government buildings, military zones, and airports is strictly prohibited. Drones are banned. Drug laws are very severe, and alcohol is regulated but available. Imports of religious literature may be screened.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Respect for elders and modesty in appearance are important cultural values. Avoid public displays of affection. Shaking hands is common, and men should initiate the greeting. Dress conservatively, particularly in rural or religious areas.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Islam is the majority religion, though Turkmenistan is secular by constitution. Visitors should remove shoes before entering mosques and avoid visiting religious sites during prayer time. During Ramadan, eating in public should be avoided where possible.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Turkmenistan, Turkmenistan National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025