2025 Ashgabat Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

The Gate of Hell - In the secluded land of Turkmenistan, an eternal burning sea of fire. I have heard the name here, but the Tuuku is very closed, travel is not free, has been shelved, this time finally decided to go. Waiting for the flames to rise in the sunset, at the entrance to the purgatory at sunrise, extravagant breakfast, as long as the heart is happy, where is heaven.

| A Whimsical Journey Through Ashgabat. 1. 📅 Climate and Best Time to Visit Ashgabat has a continental desert climate, with hot and dry summers (June–August) where temperatures can reach up to 47°C🔥, and cold winters (December–February) where temperatures can drop to -24°C❄️. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) have pleasant weather, with average temperatures of 15–25°C, making them the best seasons to visit. In autumn, there is an abundance of fruits and vegetables, and the streets are filled with the aroma of roasted chestnuts🌰, adding to the joy of traveling! 2. 🍴 Food Recommendations - Pilaf: A golden combination of mutton and carrots, savory and flavorful. - Turkmen Kebabs: Large skewers of meat marinated in special spices, with a rich charcoal aroma🍖. - Honey Cake: A local dessert, sweet but not cloying, perfect with black tea🍰. - Freshly Squeezed Pomegranate Juice: Available only in autumn, sweet and thirst-quenching, can be purchased from street vendors. 3. 🏛️ Must-See Attractions - Arch of Neutrality A 95-meter-high landmark building with a statue of the president on top that rotates with the sun, symbolizing national independence and neutrality🌞. At night, the lights change, making it look like a fairy-tale castle✨. - Palace of Happiness A pure white marble building complex, a "holy land" for newlyweds to register their marriage. The interior is luxuriously decorated, and there are 7 banquet halls in the basement for wedding celebrations💒. - World's Largest Indoor Ferris Wheel🎡 Located in the Alem Entertainment Center, it has a diameter of 110 meters. Ascending to the highest point, you can overlook the white buildings and desert scenery of the entire city. - Carpet Museum Showcases Turkmenistan's millennium-old carpet culture. The exquisite patterns and craftsmanship are amazing, and some carpets are priceless🕌. - Kopetdag Mountains Only 30 km from the city center, you can hike or drive to enjoy canyons, waterfalls, and primeval forests, and breathe fresh air🌲. 4. ⚠️ Travel Tips - Visas and Group Tours: Currently, you need to apply for a tourist visa or visa on arrival through a travel agency, and a local guide is required throughout the trip. Transit visas have not been restored, so it is recommended to plan ahead for land entry. - Photography Restrictions: It is forbidden to photograph government agencies, military facilities, presidential statues, and uniformed personnel. Taking photos inside museums requires an extra fee📸. - Safety and Customs: The capital has good public security, but avoid going out alone at night. Smoking is prohibited in public places, and drinking alcohol must be done in designated areas. - Prices and Internet: Consumption is higher than in other Central Asian countries, and hotel prices in the capital are expensive. The Internet signal is weak, so it is recommended to bring your own VPN📱. - Power Outage Preparedness: Power outages may occur frequently in winter and summer, so it is recommended to bring a power bank and flashlight🔦.

[Sunset][CityScene][CityDusk]Ashgabat is the capital of Turkmenistan. It is located on the edge of the Karakum Desert and is famous for its unique architecture and profound culture. Attraction introduction [Rainbow][SkyWheel][RollerCoaster] - Neutrality Gate: A landmark building with a golden statue on top, overlooking the beautiful city and feeling Turkmenistan's adherence to the neutrality policy. - Carpet Museum: One of the largest carpet museums in the world, it displays exquisite carpets and allows you to learn about Turkmenistan's carpet culture. - Akhal-Teke Horse Farm: See the Arabian horses and admire their elegance and extraordinary speed. Tour route 🚲🚲🚲 - Morning: After arrival, go to the Neutral Gate, then go to the Carpet Museum. - Afternoon: Visit Akhal-Teke Stud Farm and experience the charm of horses. Ticket information [Purse] [Purse] [Purse] Neutral Gate is free, Carpet Museum tickets are about 5-10 US dollars, Akhal-Teke Horse Racing Stadium tickets are 10-15 US dollars. Transportation Information [Taxi] [Taxi] [Taxi] - External transportation: You can fly to Ashgabat International Airport, which has flights from many countries and cities. - Internal transportation: There are buses and taxis in the city. Public transportation is affordable but the routes are complicated; taking a taxi is convenient and you can negotiate the price before getting on the bus. Accommodation Information [House] [House] [House] - High-end hotels: such as Turkmenbashi International Hotel, with luxurious facilities and considerate services, the price is about US$200-500 per night. - Budget hotels and B&Bs: Prices range from USD 50 to USD 150 per night, and you can experience local life. Food Information [Wine][Wine][Wine] - Hand-pulled lamb: fresh and tender, with special spices, original flavor. - Nianbing: A traditional staple food, with various flavors, crispy and delicious. - Milk tea: The rich aroma of tea and milk blends together to dispel the cold and quench your thirst. Notes [RedHeart] [RedHeart] [RedHeart] - Religious etiquette: Most people in Turkmenistan believe in Islam. When visiting religious sites, dress appropriately and respect religious customs. - Visa: Apply for a visa in advance and prepare the required documents. - Climate: Summer is hot and dry, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated; winter has a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so bring warm clothes.

📍 Preparation -🚩 Visa: Turkmenistan offers a unilateral visa on arrival for Chinese citizens. You need to book a tour with a Turkmen company and obtain an invitation letter. 💰- Currency: The local currency is the Turkmen manat. 1 CNY ≈ 0.49 Turkmen manat. You can exchange money at the airport or foreign exchange points in the city. 📦- Clothing: Ashgabat has a continental climate with large temperature differences between day and night. Bring a long-sleeved jacket for spring and autumn trips, sun-protective clothing and supplies for summer, and thick cotton clothes and other warm clothing for winter. 🛣️ Transportation - ✈️ External transportation: Ashgabat is a transportation hub in Turkmenistan, with direct flights to Urumqi, China, and more than 40 other countries and regions. - 🚌 City transportation: Buses and taxis are convenient. We recommend using the local taxi app "yandextaxi". 1 km costs about 5 manat. Attractions -1⃣️ Neutrality Monument: A landmark building in Ashgabat. You can take the elevator to the top to overlook the city and enjoy the night view.  - 2⃣️ Nisa: A World Cultural Heritage site and the ruins of the ancient Parthian Empire. You can feel the vicissitudes of history. It is suitable for history lovers.  - 3⃣️ Carpet Museum: The world's largest handmade carpet exhibition hall, where you can learn about Turkmenistan's carpet culture and craftsmanship.  - Arkadag Mosque: The largest mosque in Turkmenistan, with magnificent architecture and exquisite interior decoration. - 4⃣️ Turkmenbashi Fairytale World Amusement Park: After renovation, there are new merry-go-rounds, pedal boats, children's playgrounds, and go-kart tracks. Food recommendations - 1⃣️ Plov: A local specialty pilaf with lamb and carrots. It is delicious. - 2⃣️ Shashlik: Grilled skewers, commonly found at street stalls, with a rich flavor. - 3⃣️ Chalpach: A traditional pocket-like pasta, usually filled with minced meat, vegetables, or cheese. - 4⃣️ Baklava: A dessert made of multiple layers of pastry and nuts, soaked in honey or syrup, crispy and sweet. 🏠 Accommodation - 1⃣️ Luxury hotels: For example, Yyldyz Hotel, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. - 2⃣️ Budget hotels: You can choose homestays or small hotels in the city, which are relatively cheap and convenient.

Explore the mysterious capital of Turkmenistan 🔍 Ashgabat 🌅✨ In the distant Central Asia, there is a country connected by the Silk Road - Turkmenistan, and its capital Ashgabat is full of mystery. Today, let's take a look at this beautiful city! 🏙️ 🌟 Cityscape of Ashgabat: The sky here is blue and sunny, as if the whole city is embraced by the sun. The streets are wide and clean, with tall buildings, modern and classical architecture complementing each other, showing a unique charm. 🌸 City parks and green spaces: Ashgabat has many beautiful parks and green spaces, such as the green area near the National Olympic Stadium, with fresh air and beautiful environment, which is a good place for citizens to relax and entertain. 🍽️ Local cuisine: As the capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat's cuisine is not to be missed. The traditional dishes such as pilaf and roasted whole lamb are delicious and memorable. 🏰 Historical sites: Ashgabat has a rich history, such as the ancient Silk Road transportation hub - the ruins of the ancient city of Merv, and the spectacular Zoroastrian temple, which are good places to explore the history of the city. 💡 Tips: 1️⃣ The climate in Ashgabat is dry, so pay attention to sun protection and hydration when traveling; 2️⃣ The local currency is manat, which can be exchanged at hotels or banks; 3️⃣ Public transportation in Ashgabat is mainly by taxi and bus, and you can also choose to rent a car for a self-drive tour. In short, Ashgabat is a city full of mystery and charm, and its cityscape, natural scenery, and history and culture are all worth exploring. Come to Ashgabat and feel the unique charm of this city!

🌌 Hey, guys! Today, I'm going to take you to a super dreamy hotel - Yyldyz Hotel! The name alone makes you feel like you're in a starry galaxy, and you can't help but imagine! 💫 🏨 As soon as you step into the Yyldyz Hotel, you'll be captivated by the luxurious and dreamy atmosphere! In the lobby, the dazzling lights and exquisite artwork complement each other, as if taking you into a fairy tale world. Every detail reveals the hotel's pursuit of quality, making you feel instantly at home. 💖 🛏️ The room design is even more eye-catching! The spacious and bright space, with luxurious bedding and exquisite decorations, exudes a noble and elegant atmosphere. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows, you can overlook the night view of the entire city, as if you are under the starry sky, enjoying the tranquility and beauty. 🛌🌃 🍽️ The hotel's restaurant is also a highlight! It offers a variety of delicious dishes, from exquisite Western cuisine to authentic local specialties. The ingredients are fresh, and the taste is excellent. Each dish is like a work of art, making you reluctant to eat it. Moreover, the restaurant's environment is also super romantic, whether it's a date or a family dinner, you can find that exclusive warmth and sweetness. 🍴💑 🎉 At Yyldyz Hotel, you can not only enjoy luxurious accommodation and food but also experience various entertainment activities! The hotel's private pool, gym, spa center, and other facilities are all available, allowing you to maintain your best condition while enjoying your vacation. 🏊‍♀️💪 🌌 At night, when you walk on the hotel's rooftop and look up at the stars, you will feel an unprecedented tranquility and beauty. Yyldyz Hotel, like a shining star, shines with a unique light in the night sky, waiting for your arrival. 🌠💫

Staying at Star Hotel was a truly delightful experience! 🎉 From the moment I stepped into the hotel lobby, I was captivated by the warm and elegant ambiance. 🌟 📍 Prime Location: Star Hotel is located in the heart of the bustling city, with convenient transportation. Whether you're heading to business locations or tourist attractions, you can easily reach them, saving you a lot of trouble on the road. 🛏️ Comfortable Rooms: The rooms are spacious and bright, with soft and comfortable beds that make you feel a sense of happiness as soon as you lie down. Moreover, the room facilities are very complete, from air conditioning to TV, and even free toiletries, making you feel very thoughtful. 🍽️ Rich Cuisine: The hotel has several restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. I tried a few of them, and both Chinese and Western dishes were very good. Especially the hotel's signature dishes, which are truly unforgettable. 🏋️‍♀️ Fitness and Relaxation: In my spare time, I also worked out in the hotel's gym. The fitness equipment is very advanced, and the environment is also very comfortable. After exercising, relaxing in the spa center is truly an ultimate enjoyment. 💁‍♂️ Thoughtful Service: The hotel staff is professional and enthusiastic, always maintaining a smile and politeness. Whether it's consulting questions or seeking help, they can respond quickly, making you feel very warm. Overall, Star Hotel is a highly recommended hotel. Whether for business trips or leisure travel, it can provide you with a top-quality, thoughtful accommodation experience. 💖 If you come to this city, why not come to Star Hotel and feel the warmth and comfort of home! 🏨

1. The capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, is a very clean and tidy city, and even beautiful. There are very few people on the streets, making it a great place to travel. I recommend visiting at least once. I won't introduce much about the strategy, because the whole trip was guided by a tour guide. They have a mature plan for city tours, so you don't need to make a strategy. 2. Let me talk about my experience: I felt like a game player on a mission! First, take a designated vehicle into the city (only white or silver cars are allowed in the capital). After entering the city, you can't explore the land at will. You need to follow a local guide throughout the whole journey (on the one hand, it is not allowed by regulations, and on the other hand, there is no network, so it is difficult to travel by yourself). Then start to check in one point by one point. Finally, the trip is over, and you can go back to the hotel to sleep. Congratulations, the task is completed! 3. It is said that Turkmenistan is the "North Korea of Central Asia", but I personally think that Ashgabat is a relatively individual and avant-garde city in Central Asia. The architectural style of the capital is full of various strange, flamboyant, casual, and modern feelings. Unfortunately, the trip is limited, otherwise, I would like to visit them one by one. In addition to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, my favorite city night view is here. The mysterious thing is that there are very few people on the streets of the capital. It feels like someone has cleared the scene in advance for me to inspect (just kidding). There are many cars on the road, but I don't know where the residents are hiding. 4. Finally, here are the attractions I have visited: · Independence Park (you can also see the trees planted by various countries here) · Neutrality Monument (it is said that the location has been moved, how did this shape move?) 5. Hakha Kidasi Memorial Hall (commemorating the victims of the Patriotic War and the devastating earthquake in Ashgabat in 1948) 6. Ertugrul Gazi Mosque (a blue mosque in Turkish style) · Alem Cultural and Entertainment Center (indoor Ferris wheel, big friends can sit) are all very good choices

New Zealand's beauty is beyond words. You have to see it to believe it. Once you do, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it! What to bring: ✅ Warm, breathable clothing ✅ Sunglasses (a must-have) - the ice reflects the sun and can be very bright. If you forget to bring them, you can buy them at the scenic area reception. ✅ Sunscreen (for UV protection) ✅ Camera or phone (you'll want to take photos!) ✅ Closed shoes (hiking boots are best, but sneakers are also fine. Make sure they're non-slip.) 🟢 [Popular North Island Destinations] ✔️ Waitomo Glowworm Caves ✔️ Hobbiton ✔️ Agrodome ✔️ Redwoods Treewalk ✔️ Hell's Gate . 🟢 [Popular South Island Destinations] ✔️ Milford Sound ✔️ Kaikoura Whale Watching ✔️ Queenstown ✔️ Tekapo (stargazing) ✔️ Wanaka's "Lone Tree" 3️⃣ Must-have list: 🪪: ID, passport, visa - make sure they're valid! 💰: NZD cash for emergencies, credit card 📷: Bring a camera! Wear bright colors for great photos! 💆‍♀️: Sunscreen!!! The UV rays are strong, so make sure you protect yourself! Bring face masks and lip balm to keep your skin hydrated - it's very dry! ⚠️ Don't forget a power adapter!!! This is a must-have! ⛰️ [Things to Note] 💎 Bring plenty of water, energy drinks, and high-calorie food 💎 Bring hiking boots, hiking poles, sunscreen, a sun hat, and other gear 💎 It's windy and cold at the top of the mountain, so bring a windproof, warm coat 💎 Collect your trash and don't pollute the environment

Turkmenistan is famous as the "North Korea of ​​Central Asia". A gas crater in the desert near the Caspian Sea, commonly known as the "Gate to Hell". More than 50 years ago, the ground collapsed during an excavation survey. It was set on fire because of the release of toxic gas, and it has been burning ever since. The crater is about 70m wide. There is a small person in the center of the first picture. The Gate to Hell stands alone in the vast desert. It is said that it stands out in red and black in the pitch black at night, so you can tell where it is even 1km away. This time, I hired a local guide and camped in front of this gas crater, which is an unforgettable memory. The sound of the burning flames was the background music. Photo on Oct 2013 The Darvaza gas crater, also called ‘the Door to Hell’, located in Darvaza village in Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert, is said that it's been burning with toxic gus more than 50 years since the survey for trenching survey. You see that a person is Standing at the ridge of the crater at the central point of the 1st photo. It's about 30m deep and 70m across. It's so incredible! #tripoverseastravel #secretplace #Turkmenistan #amazingview

The Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Gates of Hell," is a remarkable natural phenomenon located in the Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan. This massive, fiery pit has been burning since the 1980s and has become a popular tourist attraction due to its otherworldly appearance and intriguing history. Getting There: The crater is situated near the village of Darvaza, approximately 260 kilometers (160 miles) north of Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. Visitors can reach the site by taking a guided tour that typically starts from Ashgabat, with travel times ranging from 3 to 4 hours. 📍Address: Darvaza Gas Crater, Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan 🇹🇲 💰Average Price per Person: Visiting the Darvaza Gas Crater is relatively affordable. Guided tours can range from $50 to $100 per person, depending on the inclusions. Accommodation options nearby include yurts and tent camps, with prices starting at around $20 per night. Meals in local eateries are inexpensive, typically costing between $5 and $15. 💞Reasons to Recommend: 1. Unique Experience: Witnessing the flames of the crater at night is a mesmerizing experience, with fiery tongues illuminating the desert landscape. 2. Geological Marvel: The crater is a fascinating example of human intervention in nature, created when Soviet geologists accidentally ignited a natural gas leak in 1971. 3. Stargazing: The remote location offers stunning views of the night sky, making it an ideal spot for stargazing alongside the glowing crater. 4. Adventure Opportunities: The surrounding desert provides opportunities for exploration and adventure activities like off-road driving and camping. 😏Curiosities About the Crater - The crater has a diameter of about 60 to 70 meters (200 to 230 feet) and a depth of approximately 30 meters (98 feet). - It emits flames fueled by methane gas that can be seen from miles away. - Despite plans by Turkmenistan's government to extinguish the flames due to environmental concerns, the crater continues to burn. 💡 Tips or Advices: - The best time to visit is during cooler months (October to April) when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. - Consider taking an evening tour to fully appreciate the dramatic contrast between the dark desert sky and the bright flames. - Exercise caution near the crater's edge; the ground can be unstable and temperatures can reach extreme levels. 🤭 Finally: The Darvaza Gas Crater is a captivating destination that showcases nature's power and human impact on the environment. With its unique allure and affordability, it offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers seeking to explore one of Turkmenistan's most extraordinary sights. #internationaltravel #100waysoftravel #darvaza #crater #turkmenistan #fire

This was my first time using Turkmenistan Airlines to travel to Moscow, Russia. The flight from Suvarnabhumi Airport took 5 hours and I had to stop over at Ashgabat Airport, Turkmenistan before taking another 4 hours from Ashgabat to Domodedovo Airport, Moscow, Russia (starting with a 3-hour delay😅 from Suvarnabhumi Airport). In terms of the plane and service of Turkmenistan Airlines, it was better than expected because the plane from BKK was very large. The seats were arranged in a 3-3-3 layout. The interior was clean, the plane was new, the seats were spacious, and there was plenty of space between my knees and the seat in front (my friend who was over 180 cm tall didn't even touch my knees). On the way there, the plane wasn't full, so I booked a 3-seat sleeper seat (the staff said that I could move after the plane took off 😁). There was a screen to watch movies, listen to music, and a charger. The receptionists were friendly and provided good service. They served 2 rounds of meat and chicken. Oh, but no alcoholic drinks were served. When I arrived at Ashgabat Airport, this airport is quite large. Clean with white and green tones. There is only 1 restaurant and a few duty free shops (you can buy beer here while you wait, it's cheap). When roaming is on, you can't use the internet, but there is free airport wifi (quite slow). On the route from Ashgabat-Moscow, the plane with 3-3 seats is smaller, but the seats are still as comfortable as before. The only difference is that the plane is full of people. 😆 #Get a discount without relying on luck #RussiaTrip2024 #100 ways to travel #Turkmenistan Airlines #Ashgabat Airport

👉The Arabian horse: The Arabian horse is famous for sweating blood and was discovered in Turkmenistan 5,000 years ago. It is very light, tall and slender, so it can run very fast and for a long time, and its fur is soft. 70% of the world's horses are related to the Arabian horse. Because horses have profound significance to the Turkmen people, they do not eat horse meat, and they cremate and bury horses properly after they die. 👉The world's three largest neutral countries: Costa Rica, Turkmenistan, and Switzerland. Turkmenistan has a population of about 6 million people, divided into five provinces, with the capital having a population of about 1 million. Although Turkmenistan is a neutral country, it has very close relations with Russia. 👉Turkmenistan was not a Muslim country before the 7th century. It was not until the Achaemenid Empire of Persia brought Islam that Turkmenistan became an Islamic country. Genghis Khan's Mongolian army came in the 13th century and destroyed many things and massacred the city. When Russia ruled Turkmenistan in the 19th century, it brought Eastern Orthodoxy with it, so Turkmenistan has a mixed belief of Islam and Eastern Orthodoxy. Even those who are not very devout Muslims can intermarry. 👉Nissa (World Cultural Heritage): It was one of the capitals of the Parthian Empire in the 3rd century BC. It was conquered by the Sassanid Empire in the 4th century and precious cultural relics were unearthed here.

Ashgabat is the capital of Turkmenistan, a city full of mystery and charm. When you step into this land, it feels like you have entered a dream world. When you first arrive in Ashgabat, you will be shocked by its unique architectural style. The white marble building sparkles in the sun, like a white fairy-tale castle. There are fountains and sculptures everywhere in the city, adding a lot of artistic atmosphere to the city. Recommended attractions: 🎈 Neutrality Gate: This is one of the landmark buildings in Ashgabat, symbolizing Turkmenistan's neutrality. The Neutral Gate is 75 meters high and has an observation deck on the top, offering a panoramic view of the entire city. Here you can feel the pride and independence of Turkmenistan. 🎈Carpet Museum: Turkmenistan is world-famous for its exquisite carpets. The Carpet Museum displays various traditional Turkmen carpets, allowing you to appreciate the artistic charm of Turkmen carpets. Here, you can learn about the craftsmanship and historical culture of carpets. 🎈Ruhyet Palace: This magnificent palace is the seat of the President of Turkmenistan. The palace's architectural style combines traditional and modern elements and is very spectacular. Here, you can feel the majesty and solemnity of Turkmenistan. 🎈Ashgabat Ferris Wheel: Located in the heart of the city, it is one of the new landmarks of Ashgabat. The Ferris wheel is 95 meters high and you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Ferris wheel. Here, you can feel the modernity and vitality of Ashgabat. Food recommendations: 🎈Turkmen cuisine: Try traditional Turkmen cuisine, such as kebab, pilaf and naan. These delicacies are rich in flavor and leave you with an endless aftertaste. Here you can feel the unique flavor of Turkmenistan. 🎈Fruits and dried fruits: Turkmenistan is famous for its fruits and dried fruits, such as grapes, melons, apricots and raisins. These fruits and dried fruits are sweet, delicious and nutritious. Here, you can enjoy the gifts of nature. Shopping recommendations: 🎈Carpets and handicrafts: Turkmenistan's carpets and handicrafts are very good souvenirs. You can buy a variety of exquisite carpets, embroidery, ceramics, etc. in local markets or shops. Here you can feel the traditional culture of Turkmenistan. 🎈Jewelry and accessories: Turkmenistan's jewelry and accessories are also very distinctive, such as turquoise, agate and silver jewelry. These jewels and accessories are exquisitely crafted and very beautiful. Here you can pick out a unique piece of jewelry.

After leaving the Gates of Hell, we headed to Ashgabat, a journey of about three and a half hours with some sightseeing along the way. It felt like a waste to visit only the Gates of Hell, so we decided to explore one of the cities we had wanted to see. Our impression was that while Ashgabat is the cleanest city in the world, it is also quite a strange one. Tourists stay in New Ashgabat, which is not a residential area, so there are very few people around. Even at tourist spots, it was just us, creating an eerie scene where it felt like we were the only ones left in a giant city, reminiscent of a story from 'Tales of the Unusual.' The massive buildings, all made of white marble, and the cars, which are either white or close to white, added to the eerie atmosphere. Despite the lack of people, there were cleaners everywhere, and from 8 PM to 5 AM, the entire city was illuminated with lights, making it the cleanest and most comfortable city to stay in, yet truly a strange one.

Traveling by land from Khiva, Uzbekistan, through Shavat to Turkmenistan, I aimed to visit the Gates of Hell. On the way, I saw the UNESCO World Heritage site at Kunya-Urgench, then traveled for four hours on unpaved roads to reach the Gates of Hell. By the time I arrived, it was night, and flames were continuously burning from the bottom of the massive hole. The occasional gusts of wind brought waves of heat, and watching the ever-burning flames, I felt the pulse of the Earth. I had always wanted to visit this place, and I couldn't stop taking pictures. I stayed overnight in a nearby yurt. However, it was extremely hot even at night in the midsummer desert, making it difficult to get a good night's sleep. As dawn broke, I gazed at the Gates of Hell in a daze. The Gates of Hell, which have been burning for 52 years, are said to be closing in December as part of the country's CO2 reduction goals, according to the guide. However, every year they say it will close, and it hasn't happened yet, so it's uncertain. But there are now drilling facilities near the Gates of Hell, indicating they might be serious this time. If you haven't seen it yet and want to, I recommend going soon.

The National Museum of Turkmenistan is located on the southern side of Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. It is an impressive structure covering an area of 22,500 square meters, with 16,000 square meters dedicated to exhibitions. The main building of the museum includes a conference hall, exhibition halls, offices, storage rooms, a technical restoration department, and a café. There are four semi-circular open-air theaters outside the main building. The exhibition halls are divided into various sections, including an independent hall, a natural history hall, a prehistoric hall, an ancient history hall, a medieval history hall, and a folklore hall, with approximately 20,000 exhibits. Foreign tourists can visit some sections of the museum, including the History Hall, the Natural History Hall, and the Presidential Hall. The entrance fee is $10. If you are visiting Turkmenistan, the National Museum of Ashgabat is a must-see!

Turkmenistan is an authoritarian country where individual entry is restricted and entry is only possible by joining a tour. After entering from Uzbekistan and a seven-hour car ride, a burnt crater appears in the Karakum Desert. You'll be fascinated all night by the beautiful and terrifying gas crater that has been burning continuously for over 50 years.

A lot of people come to turkmenistan to witness this WEIRDLY AMAZING PHENOMENON! DARVAZA GAS CRATER! It is MOST amazing at night when the sky is dark and the crater is lit up. It is a breathtaking natural wonder in Turkmenistan's Karakum Desert. This stunning sight is the consequence of a natural gas field accident in 1971. To prevent the spread of methane gas, the crater was set on fire, and it has continued to burn since. The Darvaza Gas Crater is a bizarre picture, with flames dancing over a massive crater, casting an ethereal light visible from miles away. It has become a renowned tourist destination, attracting tourists from all over the world who are drawn by its uncanny beauty and mystery appeal. If you visit Turkmenistan, especially from the border with Uzbekistan, make sure you arrange a tour to this unique spot! ❤️🔥

The Wedding Palace in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, is an architectural gem that symbolizes the grandeur and elegance of weddings in the country❤️❤️ If you like architecture, make sure to not miss out on this spot when visiting Asghabat! This majestic edifice is a favorite wedding and celebration destination, recognized for its lavish architecture and sumptuous facilities. The Wedding Palace is a stunning combination of modern and traditional architectural features, with detailed carvings, colorful patterns, and brilliant chandeliers. Its grand halls and ballrooms provide a luxurious venue for couples to exchange vows and celebrate their big day in style. This place is THE BEST EXAMPLE of turkmenistan’s dedication to honoring love! 💕

The Constitution Monument in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, is a significant landmark that commemorates the country's commitment to democracy, governance, and the rule of law. This imposing monument stands tall in a prominent location, serving as a symbol of national unity and progress. The Constitution Monument features a grand design, incorporating architectural elements inspired by Turkmenistan's rich cultural heritage. It showcases intricate carvings, symbolic motifs, and thought-provoking inscriptions that highlight the principles and values enshrined in the country's constitution. The monument serves as a reminder of Turkmenistan's dedication to upholding democratic ideals and fostering a society based on justice, equality, and freedom.

Darvaza Gas Crater: As you approach you will feel the heat and hear the sound of a thousand dancing flames of natural gas. Local people call this the "Door to Hell". Don't get too close! (Since this photo was taken, the Turkmen government built a low metal fence around the crater and a stone walkway to a patio that overlooks the crater's edge The Door to Hell: The crater, located in north-central Turkmenistan, is about 226 feet (69 meters) across and about 98 feet (30 meters) deep. Discover the incredible Darvaza Gas Crater, known globally as the 'Door to Hell', 'Gate to Hell', 'Crater of Fire', and 'Darvaza' or 'Derweze' Crater. Take captivating photos and videos of this fiery natural spectacle, nestled within the desolate expanses of the Karakum desert, 266km north of Ashgabat city. In 1971, the mesmerizing sight of the Darvaza Gas Crater was unintentionally created by Soviet geologists. Situated near the quaint village of Darvaza (Derweze), meaning 'gate' in Turkmen, they accidentally pierced a cavern filled with natural gas. An unfortunate accident led to equipment falling into a newly formed cavernous hole, from which gas began to escape. With concerns about the potential release of poisonous gases, the team decided to ignite the gas. The expectation was the fire would extinguish after consuming the available fuel within a few days, but surprisingly, the fire still burns today. #placetosee #stunningbeach #beachparty #beachlovers #topbeach #placetovisit #bestbeach #travel #perfectbeach #localescapes #helloautumn #beachvacation #hotelstaycation