Turkmenistan, a country often shrouded in mystery due to its relative isolation, offers visitors a unique window into a blend of ancient history and modern grandeur. Nestled between the Caspian Sea and Central Asia, this nation presents an intriguing collection of sites ranging from vast deserts and rugged mountains to spectacularly opulent cities that seem sprung from a fantasy novel. Here’s your guide to the top 10 must-visit destinations in Turkmenistan that can promise an unforgettable journey.
#### 1. **Ashgabat**
The capital city, known as the ‘City of White Marble,’ holds the world record for having the most white marble buildings. These include impressive structures like the Turkmenbashi Palace and the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque. Visiting Ashgabat is akin to walking through a futuristic vision with its pristine parks, monuments, and incredibly clean streets.
#### 2. **Merv**
Once one of the greatest cities on the Silk Road, Merv is now an important historical site located near Mary in Turkmenistan. It features numerous ruins spread across a large area, representing various eras from its time as a major oasis-city in Central Asia. The Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar and Greater Kyz Kala are particularly fascinating.
#### 3. **Darvaza Gas Crater**
Nicknamed ‘The Door to Hell,’ this fiery crater in the heart of the Karakum Desert is one of Turkmenistan’s most unusual sights. The sight of burning natural gas, which has been alight since 1971 when Soviet geologists set it on fire to prevent methane gas spread, is especially dramatic at night.
#### 4. **Konye-Urgench**
Located near Turkmenistan’s northern border with Uzbekistan, Konye-Urgench boasts impressive architectural remnants from its days as the capital of Khwarazm. Its monuments like Turabek Khanum Mausoleum, Kutlug Timur Minaret (one of Central Asia’s tallest), and Najm-ad-Din Kubra Mausoleum speak volumes about its historical significance.
#### 5. **Nisa**
The ancient ruins of Nisa lie close to Ashgabat and are amongst UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites due to their role as one of the first capitals of the Parthians. This archaeological site offers insights into early fortress architecture and contains many relics preserved at its museum.
#### 6. **Turkmenbashi**
This coastal city on the Caspian Sea serves as a gateway for beach lovers looking for some leisure time by tranquil waters at Avaza tourist zone which features fine sandy beaches lined with modern resorts.
#### 7. **Yangykala Canyon**
Regarded as one of Turkmenistan’s natural wonders, Yangykala Canyon is breathtaking due to its dramatically sculpted rock formations colored in shades of red, yellow, and orange. It’s an excellent spot for hiking and photography.
#### 8. **Gonur Depe**
This archaeological site north of Mary has been considered by some scholars as belonging to one of the world’s oldest civilizations—Margush or Margiana civilisation dating back over four millennia ago.
#### 9. **Balkanabat**
Nearby Yangykala Canyon lies Balkanabat which serves mostly as an administrative center but provides good access points for excursions into surrounding nature reserves where you can encounter diverse wildlife including gazelles and eagles.
#### 10. **Anau**
Just off east Ashgabat sits Anau where you can explore remains dating back several centuries along with visiting modern attractions like mosques built recently showcasing traditional designs melded with contemporary aesthetics.
### Travel Tips
– Be sure you have all necessary visas before traveling.
– Stay hydrated especially if venturing into desert areas.
– Respect local customs particularly regarding dress codes and public behavior.
– Learn some basic Russian or Turkmen phrases; it will enhance interaction with locals.
Turkmenistan’s beauty lies both in its spectacular landscapes and rich history which together create an entirely different world waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers seeking roads less traveled!