Turkmenistan-7-day-itinerary

Turkmenistan 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Ashgabat

  • Arrival: Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport (ASB)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Afternoon: Visit the Neutrality Arch, a 95m tall monument dedicated to Turkmenistan’s neutrality
  • Evening: Explore the Ashgabat City Centre, known for its marble-clad buildings and grand monuments

Day 2: Ashgabat

  • Morning: Visit the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia
  • Afternoon: Explore the National Museum of Turkmenistan, showcasing the country’s history and culture
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Turkmen dinner at a local restaurant

Day 3: Ashgabat to Nisa (30 km, 1 hour)

  • Morning: Visit the ancient city of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Parthian Empire
  • Afternoon: Return to Ashgabat and visit the Olympic Stadium, a grand sports complex built for the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games

Day 4: Ashgabat to Darvaza (260 km, 4 hours)

  • Morning: Drive to Darvaza, a small village in the Karakum Desert
  • Afternoon: Visit the Darvaza Gas Crater, a natural gas field that has been burning continuously since 1971
  • Evening: Enjoy a BBQ dinner under the stars in the desert

Day 5: Darvaza to Mary (230 km, 4 hours)

  • Morning: Drive to Mary, a city in southeastern Turkmenistan
  • Afternoon: Visit the Mary Museum, showcasing the region’s history and culture
  • Evening: Explore the Mary Bazaar, a traditional marketplace selling local goods

Day 6: Mary to Merv (30 km, 1 hour)

  • Morning: Visit the ancient city of Merv, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Persian Empire
  • Afternoon: Return to Mary and visit the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, a stunning example of medieval architecture

Day 7: Departure from Ashgabat (360 km, 6 hours)

  • Morning: Drive back to Ashgabat (approx. 6 hours)
  • Afternoon: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city
  • Evening: Depart from Ashgabat International Airport

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter Turkmenistan
  • Visas can be obtained through a travel agency or embassy/consulate in advance
  • A LOI (Letter of Invitation) is required for visa applications

Transportation

  • Domestic flights are available between Ashgabat and Mary
  • Private vehicles with drivers can be hired for transportation between cities
  • Taxi services are also available, but not always reliable

Things to Know

  • Turkmenistan is a conservative country; dress modestly and respect local customs
  • Photography is restricted in certain areas; ask permission before taking pictures
  • The local currency is the Turkmenistan manat (TMT); exchange rates can be unfavourable for foreigners

Other Tips

  • Try traditional Turkmen cuisine, such as plov, shurpa, and shashlik
  • Haggling is expected at markets; be prepared to negotiate prices
  • Be respectful of the country’s history and culture; avoid criticizing the government or president