Tourist Attractions in Turkmenistan
Ashgabat: The Marble City
The capital, Ashgabat, holds a Guinness World Record for the most marble-clad buildings, established in 2013 and still valid in 2025 [Guinness World Records, 2013].
• Independence Monument Complex: Houses the National History Museum, showcasing Turkmen heritage.
• Alem Ferris Wheel: One of the largest indoor Ferris wheels in the region.
• Ertugrul Gazi Mosque: A golden-domed mosque with a capacity of 7,000–10,000, also the resting place of the former president.
• National Museum of Turkmenistan: Features artifacts from Gonur-Depe, exquisite jewelry, and traditional carpets.
Ancient Merv (Mary)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 4,000 years of history, Merv includes the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Seljuk-era structures, and the Yusuf Hamadani Mosque [UNESCO World Heritage Centre, 2023].
Darvaza Gas Crater (“Gates of Hell”)
A fiery crater in the Karakum Desert, burning since 1971. Nighttime camping nearby is a unique experience for adventure tourists [Times of Central Asia, 2025].
Akhal-Teke Horses
Turkmenistan’s national symbol, these legendary horses are showcased at breeding farms near Ashgabat and during annual festivals [Turkmenistan State News Agency, 2025].
Altyn Asyr Bazaar
A traditional market on Ashgabat’s outskirts, offering handwoven carpets, handicrafts, and silver jewelry.
Karakum Desert and Sarykamysh Lake
Covering 80% of Turkmenistan, the Karakum Desert is ideal for adventure tours. Sarykamysh Lake attracts nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Avaza National Tourist Zone
Located on the Caspian Sea, Avaza combines recreational and wellness tourism:
• 18 hotels, 8 recreational and wellness centers, and 9 cottage complexes, with a capacity exceeding 10,000 visitors.
• Features a man-made river, parks, shopping centers, and water-based activities.
• In 2025, Avaza hosted international events like the Turkmenistan Investment Forum, emphasizing its growing conference tourism [Times of Central Asia, September 2025].
Events and Festivals
• Nowruz (March 21–23): A national celebration with Kushtdepdi dances and Bagshy music.
• Turkmen Horse Day (Last Sunday in April): Celebrates Akhal-Teke horses with festivals drawing international visitors.
• Ashgabat Handicrafts Exhibition (2024–2025): Showcases Turkmen carpets and jewelry, attracting foreign tourists.
Key Developments in 2025
Electronic Visa (e-Visa)
Since April 2025, Turkmenistan has implemented an e-Visa system, simplifying entry for many nationalities. However, invitation letters are still required for certain visa types [Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2025; Times of Central Asia, 2025].
Digitalization and Technology
Arkadag, Turkmenistan’s “smart city,” launched 4G+ in early 2025 and 5G in June 2025, in collaboration with Huawei. This enhances online booking systems and tourism connectivity [Times of Central Asia, June 2025].
New Infrastructure
The Balkanabat International Airport, opened on May 2, 2025, has increased air travel capacity to western regions, supporting tourism to Avaza and the Caspian coast [Turkmenistan State News Agency, May 2025].
Regional Cooperation
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan introduced joint Silk Road tourism routes in August 2025, connecting Merv, Darvaza, and Kunya-Urgench with sites in Khorezm and western Kazakhstan [Times of Central Asia, August 2025].
Tourism Challenges
• Limited infrastructure in rural and desert areas.
• Photography restrictions at government sites and cultural sensitivities.
• High costs for hotels and services in Ashgabat (e.g., 5-star hotels often exceed $200 per night).
Travel Tips for Tourists
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for mild weather.
• Transportation: Direct flights to Ashgabat and Turkmenbashi; active land borders with Uzbekistan and Iran.
• Accommodation: 5-star hotels like Yildyz, local guesthouses in Merv and Balkanabat, and beachfront hotels in Avaza.
• Safety: Turkmenistan remains one of Central Asia’s safest countries for street crime [Global Peace Index, 2025].
The Future of Tourism
With e-Visas, Avaza’s expansion, and regional Silk Road routes, Turkmenistan expects a 20–30% increase in tourist arrivals in 2025–2026, while retaining its unique, niche appeal [Times of Central Asia, 2025].
Sources
• Guinness World Records (2013). Most marble-clad buildings – Ashgabat. guinnessworldrecords.com
• UNESCO World Heritage Centre (2023). State Historical and Cultural Park “Ancient Merv”. whc.unesco.org
• Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2025). Visa Information. mfa.gov.tm
• Times of Central Asia (2025). Turkmenistan launches e-Visa system. timesca.com
• Times of Central Asia (June 2025). 5G connectivity launched in Arkadag with Huawei. timesca.com
• Turkmenistan State News Agency (May 2025). Balkanabat International Airport opens. turkmenistan.gov.tm
• Times of Central Asia (August 2025). Central Asia introduces joint Silk Road tourism routes. timesca.com
• Times of Central Asia (September 2025). Turkmenistan Investment Forum in Avaza. timesca.com
• Global Peace Index (2025). Turkmenistan safety ranking. visionofhumanity.org