Top 10 Things to Do in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is a country like no other. Although it has long been interconnected with its neighbors, it remains an anomaly in almost every sense. The Great Silk Road once crossed this land of powerful kingdoms and enduring civilizations, and traces of those eras can still be seen today in dusty ruins that were once home to mighty rulers, fierce conquerors, and renowned scholars. Turkmenistan’s appeal goes far beyond its history. The country’s mountains, canyons, deserts, oases, and Caspian Sea coastline are as striking as its world-famous handwoven carpets and purebred racehorses. To better understand what a journey here can offer, explore this list of the top 10 things to do in Turkmenistan. 1. Ride an Akhal-Teke Horse The Akhal-Teke horse is one of Turkmenistan’s greatest national symbols. Once prized as a war horse, today it is admired for its grace, intelligence, speed, and elegance. Often named after noble birds such as falcons or eagles, these horses appear on the national coat of arms and even have a holiday dedicated to them. Visitors can watch them perform at Ashgabat’s hippodrome or visit stud farms to see, pet, and even ride these legendary animals. 2. Touch Fossilized Dinosaur Tracks The Dinosaur Plateau in eastern Turkmenistan is the world’s largest reserve of dinosaur footprints. Spread across a vast limestone slab in the Koytendag Range, it features tracks from Megalosaurus, Iguanodon, and Tyrannosaurus. Some trails stretch hundreds of meters, and a few footprints intriguingly resemble human shoe prints. This mysterious site continues to fascinate scientists and visitors alike. 3. See the Fire Fortresses of Yangikala Canyon Yangikala Canyon is a spectacular landscape of sheer cliffs carved by wind and rain. Once a seabed, the canyon’s rock formations change color throughout the day, turning fiery red at sunset—earning it the nickname “Fire Fortresses.” Ideal for hiking, camping, and quiet reflection, Yangikala is one of the most unforgettable natural wonders in Turkmenistan. 4. Knock on the “Gates of Hell” at Darvaza The Darvaza Gas Crater, often called the “Door to Hell,” has been burning continuously since 1971 after a gas cavern collapsed and was set alight. By day it appears as a vast crater, but at night hundreds of flames illuminate the desert, creating an eerie and mesmerizing spectacle. This accidental phenomenon has become one of the country’s most iconic sights. 5. Travel Back in Time to an Imperial Capital Old Nisa, near Ashgabat, is a UNESCO-listed Parthian fortress that once served as the capital of the Parthian Empire. Dating back to the 3rd century BC, its massive walls, towers, and architectural design reflect a blend of Greek, Roman, and Eastern influences. Even in ruins, Old Nisa impresses with its scale and historical significance. 6. Travel Forward in Time to a Futuristic Marble City Ashgabat is famous for its white-marble architecture, wide boulevards, fountains, and modern monuments. Rebuilt after a devastating 1948 earthquake, the city stands today as a futuristic capital. Visitors should explore Altyn Asyr Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s largest open-air markets, and sample traditional Turkmen cuisine at local restaurants. 7. Learn Local Lore from a Turkmen Carpet Turkmen carpets are world-renowned for their craftsmanship and symbolism. At the Turkmen Carpet Museum in Ashgabat, visitors can learn about tribal patterns, legends, and centuries-old weaving traditions. The museum houses historic carpets and one of the largest modern carpets ever made. 8. Uncover Thousands of Years of History in Kunya-Urgench Once the capital of Northern Khorezm, Kunya-Urgench was a major medieval trade and intellectual center. Though largely destroyed by invasions and abandoned after the Amu Darya changed course, impressive monuments remain, including the Kutlug Timur Minaret and Tekesh Mausoleum. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 9. Discover Secrets in the Ruins of an Ancient Oasis Merv was one of the most important cities of the ancient world, flourishing as a cultural and political center for centuries. Its ruins—spanning multiple historical eras—include Erk-Kala, Gyaur-Kala, Sultan-Kala, and the magnificent Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum. Today, Merv offers a powerful glimpse into Turkmenistan’s rich past. 10. Plunge into a Melon Paradise Turkmenistan is famous for its melons, with more than 430 varieties grown across the country. From small spring melons to giant autumn varieties, melons are enjoyed year-round and celebrated annually during Melon Day. Tasting local melons is a delicious way to experience Turkmen culture and national pride. With Siso Travel, you can experience the wonders of Turkmenistan through a well-planned and comfortable journey, discovering its history, nature, and unique traditions with confidence and ease.