Highlights
Below you will find a list of the main places of historical or natural interest that can be visited in or from six cities in Turkmenistan that are served by air, road and train connections and that offer a respectable choice of accommodation and dining options: Ashgabat, Mary, Dashoguz, Turkmenabad, Turkmenbashi and Balkanabad.
For more comprehensive information about other places of interest, other overnight options, various transport options and their respective distances/travel times, please contact us directly.
For an overview of the historical era that the below monuments represent, see the History chapter in the Country Information Section of this site. In the Country Information Section you can also find more detailed information about Nature Reserves, Arts and Crafts, Turkmen Horses, Geography, Climate, Currency and Cuisine.
MERW (25 km from Mary)
The Seleucids, Alexander’s successors, founded the second city of Merv (IV c. BC), known today as Gyaur Kala, which many experts identify with Antiochia Margiana. The city was built on a Hellenistic grid pattern. It is approximately square and occupies some 360 ha.
Roughly in the middle of the site are the ruins of the 7th century mosque and partly ruined sordoba - water cistern. In the south east corner of Gyaur Kala one could see a distinguished mound- the remains of a Buddhist stupa and monastery. This complex was excavated by Masson M. in 1950s and the important finds included the famous ’Merv vase’ and the clay head of a massive statue of Buddha.
The Seljuk capital, consisting of a shahristan (medieval citadel) and a rabat (outskirts of the medieval city), considerably exceeded Damascus and Jerusalem in size. Today the Seljuk citadel is called Sultan Kala. It has an oval shape and occupies about 630 hectares. Its layout is still visible in aerial pictures. Among all city sites of Merw, perhaps the most significant is the medieval Seljuk city.
During Seljuk Sultan Sanjar’s reign the Shahriar Ark was constructed - a citadel within the citadel, protected by its own walls and moat. Visiting Shahriar Ark you can see the Kepter Khana - an interesting corrugated structure, which is the best-preserved in the citadel. It’s walls still survive to a height of some 4,5 m, however the original height of the walls is hard to determine.
The highlight of Ancient Merv is a visit to Sultan Sanjar’s mausoleum, which still dominates the landscape. This central-cupola building without portal is typical of the Khorasan architectural style. The mausoleum was created by Mohamed, the son of Atsyz of Serakhs. His name was not found in the historical chronicles, but we can find it on one of the medallions below the cupola of the mausoleum.
A few kilometers to the south of the ruins of the medieval Sultan Kala we find the post-medieval city, known today as Abdullakhan Kala, constructed in the time of Timurid rule in the region, and was enclosed by massive walls and a moat with massive ramparts. Although one of the strongest and best fortified cities in the area, Abdullakhan Kala never reached the importance of the previous city sites. The remains of the city walls are still impressive, however, the walls, the Timurid palace and other constructions in this citadel, as well as four gates were much better preserved in the 19th century.
The mausoleum-complex of Hodja Yusuf Hamadani (Hamdani) includes a modern mosque and minaret, the grave and mausoleum of Hodja Yusuf Hamadani (died in 1140), a Timurid iwan (portal) and a prayer hall. It is located not far from the Seljuk citadel. This complex has been largely reconstructed and turned into an important pilgrimage site. Hodja Yusuf Hamadani was a famous Sufi scholar of the 12th century, and the first of a group of Central Asian Sufi teachers who founded the Naqshbandi order. He was born in 1048-49 in a small settlement called Bezendjird, close to the famous Iranian city of Hamadan, when Merw was under Seljuk rule.
Mausoleums of ashkhabs. Original set of graves from the time of the Arab invasion into Central Asia in the early years after the death of Mohamed. The graves of two askhabs (companions/campaigners of the Prophet) are of Al Khakam Gifari (died in 670) and Bureyda Al Aslami (died in 681). At the time of their death the graves were constructed; in the 15th c. (Timurid era) aiwans were added, and in the 19th c the mausoleums were constructed over the graves by Guljemal Khan.
Today, Merv occupies a territory of more than 1200 ha and forms the biggest archeological site in Central Asia. The importance of the site was recognized in 1999 by UNESCO, which awarded Merv World Heritage status.
MARGUSH (Gonur Depe; 100 km northwest of Mary)
Located at approximately 100 kilometers (three hours by four-wheel drive) from Mary City is the area we call Margush, and its center at Gonur Depe (or Brown Hill). In 1972 a famous Russian-Greek archeologist, Professor Viktor Sarianidi, made a marvelous discovery: he found the long lost capital of the Bronze Age center of Margush country whose people inhabited dozens of settlements around the old delta oasis of the Murghab River. Arguably, what he found was the center of a fifth great ancient civilization, next to China, India, Mesopotamia and Egypt.
At its ritual center at Gonur Depe we can observe the remains of various ritual complexes, and a huge necropolis. The remains, when found in 1972, had been kept in extremely good shape, as the dry desert climatic conditions and four millennia of sand cover had given it proper protection from decay. The History Museum in Mary and the National Museum in Ashgabat have an impressive display of items found in the area.
TALKHATAN and surroundings (40 km southeast of Mary)
Nearby is Ahun Baba, the site of a medressa (XIX c AD) called Kyrk Gummez (or Forty Cupolas), because it is made up of an inner courtyard surrounded by the medressa structure covered by 10 cupolas on each side.
DANDANKAN (70 km southwest of Mary)
Dandanakan represents the ruins of the medieval town 35 km to the south-west of Mary situated on the medieval route from Serakhs to Merv. The site consists of the central fortified part surrounded by a vast settlement. The fortress has a square plan and in the middle of south-eastern façade there is a gate. Fortress walls are reinforced with towers in the corners and at the gate. Two principal streets divided the town in four parts. A cathedral mosque (IX-early X cc.) was located almost in its centre. A large caravanserai is located 50 m northwards, beyond the bounds of shakhristan. Another caravanserai is 70 m to the east from the eastern corner. Within the territory of rabad there are pottery districts and dwelling constructions. Dandanakan was founded in the VIII-IX cc. In 1221 it was destroyed by Mongols, but later was partially restored and its caravanserai functioned till the 16th-17th centuries.
SERAKHS (160 km southwest of Mary)
Within the shakhristan is the mausoleum of Abul-Fazl (Sarakhs-baba), constructed in 1024. It is one of the masterpieces of the famous Sarakhs architectural school which was wide-known in the East during the XI-XII cc.
The mausoleum is distinguished by its constructional innovations: a secret by-pass gallery and a double shelled dome. This concept was further perfectionized in the mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar (XII c.). YEKEDESHIK (220 km south of Mary)
The cave сomplex of Yekedeshik is located near Tagtabazar in Southern Turkmenistan. The caves stretch along the steep right bank of Murgab and over the Karabil height. The entrance is organized in the vertical break of the bank. A straight, 37 m long corridor comes up against the altar-shaped niche. On the right and the left there are rectangular rooms and one of them, almost quadrate in plan (3,2 x 3,3 m), has a spherical ceiling and a dome with the narrow ornamented drum. The height of this room in the centre is 5,6 m.
The earliest mention of the cave complex belongs to the Arabian geographer Kudama (X c.). The caves attracted attention of researchers starting from the end of the XIX century. During Soviet times Yekedeshik was investigated by archaeologists, architects and geologists. Yekedeshik is comparatively known monument but not the only one of its kind. Surface investigations of locality revealed a number of similar caves along the whole right bank of Murgab. They stretch up to the river upper reaches, to neighbouring Afghanistan. The Tagtabazar cave structure were supposedly Buddhist complex, a great number of which survived in the neighbouring Afghanistan and in the adjoining areas (Bamian - in Afghanistan; Kara-tepe - in Uzbekistan; Yun'gan, Tyan'lunshan' - in China) that in the first centuries AD belonged to the Kushanian kingdom and were zones of Buddhist spread.
KUNYA (KONE) URGENCH (110 km northwest of Dashoguz)
Kone Urgench is located about 100 km northwest of Dashoguz. Today it occupies about 650 ha. The city of Biruni and Avicenna, al Farabi and al Khorezmi was located on the caravan routes which lead from Sogdiana (Samarkand, Bukhara) and Khorasan (Merw, Bactra) to the Caspian Sea and Russia. The importance of Kone Urgench was recognized by UNESCO, which awarded the site World heritage status in 2005.
Mausoleum of Turabek Khanym (constructed in 1370)
Stalactite majolica decorations were employed to decorate the arch of the portal and dekhliz ceiling. The building is notable for its remarkable ceiling. The interlocking design of the ceiling of the main hall is still in perfect condition and remarkable in being unrestored. Turabek Khanum was a daughter of the Golden Horde ruler Uzbek Khan, under whose reign the Golden Horde’s power reached its peak.
Kutlug Timur minaret (construction finished in 1320-30)
Today the minaret is 64m high. A Mongolian governor of Kone Urgench, Kutlug Timur, was the most influential and powerful emir of the Golden Horde.
Mausoleum of Soltan Tekesh (early XIII c.)
The mausoleum has a square base, with walls 11,5 m in length. Soltan Tekesh (of the Anushtegin dynasty) was the shah of Khorezm from 1172 till 1200.
Mausoleum of Il Arslan (late XII c.)
On the main façade we can not see any strong indication of the portal. Three separated niches above the main entrance are decorated with terra-cotta stucco decorations, representing floral designs. Il Arslan was the shah of Khorezm from 1156 till 1172.
Kyrk Molla (?VI c BCIII c AD) The remains of the citadel are located just opposite the Tekesh mausoleum. The popular name of the citadel is Kyrk Molla (forty mullahs). Archeological excavations on the northern slope of the mound opened the fortification wall. The citadel is perhaps the oldest part of Kone Urgench. The earliest ceramics discovered here date back to the 5th c. B.C.
Dash Kala and Mamun Minaret (X c.) The remains of the minaret are located in the northern part of Dash Kala, which is the ancient site of pre-Mongol fortified shahristan of Gurgandj.
The Gate of the Caravanserai (?XIV c.) The portal of unknown building is one of the few monuments preserved on the territory of Dash Gala. The building itself does not exist any more. The portal bay is decorated with blue and white majolica, representing floral and geometrical designers. The external side of the arch is decorated with cut brick ornaments.
Nadjmedin Kubra mausoleum (constructed in 1320-30)
We also can enjoy the aquamarine and blue majolica decorations of its portal. Directly opposite is the mausoleum of Khorezmshah Sultan Ali (XVI c.), the design of which is considered a poor copy of the Turabek Khanym mausoleum built two centuries earlier.
YZMUKSHIR (25 km south of Dashoguz)
Yzmukshir, existing since Parthian times (II c. BC) and known as Zamakhshar in medieval times, was an important trade and craft center in Khorezm, and connected Khorezm, Margiana and Khorasan. In the Yzmukshir fortress used a rare for those days double wall fortification system and the concept of labyrinths was introduced here. The well-preserved 25-meter high walls remain an impressive sight up to today.
KARAKUM DESERT
Owadan Tourism can arrange fantastic short or longer jeep tours across any part of the Karakum desert for those that are looking for outdoor adventure, and are interested in going completely off the beaten track.
DAYA HATYN (170 km northwest of Turkmenabad)
Daya Hatyn caravanserai was constructed in the centre of a huge rectangular (112x125 m) yard space formed by the fortress' wall. At the fortress' corners round towers are located, while along the wall's perimeter small rectangular towers are set. This fortification wall, erected in the IX-X cc., is the remains of the Arabian Ribat of Takhiriya mentioned in various medieval sources. Supposedly in the second half of the XI c. the Daya Hatyn caravanserai was erected within its territory.
The caravanserai functioned under the Seljuks (XI-XII cc.), Khorezmshahs (late XII-early XIII cc.), and during the Gold Horde time (XIII-XIV cc.). Later, in the Timurid period, it was repeatedly repaired and re-constructed. Last time the name of Takhiriya was noted was in the work of the Turkish author Khaji Khalf (XVII c.). On the Russian maps of the XVIII c. the caravanserai was marked as Daya-Khatun. At that time it was already abandoned.
ASTANA BABA (180 km southeast of Turkmenabad)
Alamberdar mausoleum is an architectural monument of the early XI c., situated in Astana-baba settlement. The building consists of one quadrate hall (8,5 x 8,5 m) covered with a dome on arch pendentives. Each inner wall is divided into 3 pointed niches. The facades are decorated with ornamental brickwork of fired quadrate and figured bricks. The entrance (from the east) is emphasized by a slightly protruded portal. The Alamberdar shrine can be considered as one of the earliest monuments of the XI century in Central Asia which gives us a notion of the evolution of mausoleums from centric-domed type to portal one.
KUGITANG (460 km southeast of Turkmenabad)
The Kugitang area is the location of the Koyten Dag mountain range. It is a beautiful region with mountains and lush green valleys, gorges, lakes and waterfalls, and therefore very inviting for short or longer hikes.
Note: whereas the Karlyuk karst caves are protected sites that require prior government permission for a visit, most other sites, such as the dinosaur foot prints, the Umbar Dere canyon, the Koyten Lake, and Kainar Baba hydrogen sulphate spring are freely accessible for visitors.
Owadan Tourism can arrange overnight stay in a basic lodge near the Koyten Lake. Kitchen facilities are available, but it is recommended that you bring your drinks and food products from Turkmenabad or Atamurat (Kerki).
KARAKUM DESERT
When you travel by road you will be able to get a feel for the Karakum Desert en route, particularly on the asphalted route Turkmenabad-Mary. If you are interested in a more extensive experience in the desert, please contact us directly.
Owadan Tourism can arrange fantastic short or longer jeep tours across any part of the Karakum desert for those that are looking for outdoor adventure, and are interested in going completely off the beaten track.
The word ‘Ashgabat’ is a composition of two foreign words. Linguists and geographers explain the origin of this word in different ways. The most popular version tells: eshk in Arabic means love or being in love and abad in Persian means a town, a populated spot. Some experts, on the other hand, believe that ashk was the shortened form of Arshak - the first Parthian king.
Ashgabat is situated at the foot of the Kopet-Dag Mountains, which form a most picturesque background of the city. North of the city there is the Karakum desert. Ashgabat is located 214-240 m above sea level on the 38th parallel along with Cordova (Spain), Athens (Greece) and San Francisco (USA). Located less than 50 kilometers from the Iranian border, Ashgabat can be regarded as the hub of Turkmenistan, although at a first glance it would appear to be on the outskirts of it. It is located about 600 km of the most northern, southern, eastern and western Turkmenistan’s points.
Post-independence Ashgabat is one of the fastest growing and most successful cities in Turkmenistan. It has a good diversity of accommodation and a good choice of restaurants.
Highlights of the city and its suburbs
National History and Ethnography Museum
In front of the museum is the tallest unsupported flagpole in the world. The flag, 133 meters tall and a weight of 135 tones, was first raised on the birthday of the President of Turkmenistan, 29 June 2008.
Oguzkhan Fountain complex
Surrounded by Turkmen warrior-heroes is a vast fountain complex that entered the Guinness Book of World Records in 2010 as a facility combining the greatest number of public fountains. The complex includes 27 computerized fountains. The complex is particularly beautiful at night when colored spotlights shine through the rays of water.
National Carpet museum Opened originally in 1994 and re-opened in its new home in 2008, the museum offers an interesting collection of antique and contemporary Turkmen carpets. Many of the carpets in this collection are dating back to the 17th century. Here you can see two of the largest hand-made carpets in the world, one of which is in the Guinness Book of Records: the Turkmen kalby carpet is 190 m2 in size and was made during WWII, and the Turkmenbashy kalby carpet is 301 m2 in size, a weight of 1.200 kg, and completed in 2001. The museum is open Monday-Friday 10.00-18.00, with a lunch break 13.00-14.00.
Independence Park
At the southern end of this park you can see the Independence monument, 118 meters tall, surrounded by statues of Turkmen historical heroes, and a gold statue of the first President of independent Turkmenistan.
Monument to the Ahalteke Horse
In front of the monument is a gold statue of the first president of Turkmenistan. Both the Independence Monument and the Horses Monument are favorite places for wedding photo shoots.
Ertogrul Ghazi Mosque
It is sometimes also referred to as Azady Mosque. The design is reminiscent of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. Both exterior and interior design are exquisite; this mosque is a well worth visit.
Tolkuchka market
The market is open on Thursdays, Saturdays and on a bigger scale on Sundays. It is the best place in the world to buy Turkmen Bukhara carpets. To take them out of Turkmenistan you'll need to get an export certificate. Sundays are special for the livestock section of this market.
Turkmenbashi Ruhy (Spiritual) Mosque
Next to the mosque is the mausoleum with the graves of the family of the first president of Turkmenistan. The impressive mosque-mausoleum complex in white marble is located next to the village of Kipchak, which is the birthplace of the late president.
National Hippodrome Every Sunday in spring and autumn horse races take place at the National Hippodrome. A visit to such a race gives you a rare opportunity to see the powerful Ahalteke horses in action. For exact information on the horse race season contact us directly.
Horse farms A variety of Ahalteke horse farms are located in the vicinity of Ashgabat. A very large horse breeding farm (approximately 400 horses) can be visited for those that want to observe these gorgeous horses from a safe distance. For those that want to ride one of these temperamental beauties, various private farms are able to organize short (one-hour) to long (1-8 days) trips. These farms are located at a distance of approximately 50 km from Ashgabat.
ANAU (15 km east of Ashgabat)
At a short distance from this medieval mosque and the ancient fortress there are two mounds, which still dominate the landscape. In Turkmen those mounds are called Depe. An American geologist Raphaello Pompelli visited this place at the beginning of the XX century and conducted excavations here. Archeological finds testify to the fact that people inhabited this location already in the IV-III millennium BC, i.e. during the Bronze Age.
ABIVERD (117 km east of Ashgabat)
ULUG DEPE (175 km east of Ashgabat)
Firing kilns, lapis lazuli and turquoise items are indicative of contact with populations in neighboring regions, and it is assumed that Ulug Depe was part of the BMAC culture. A Turkmen-French archeological expedition started excavations and conservation work since 2001, and the nearby laboratory restores vast quantities of metal and ceramic objects found at the site.
NODIR SHAH FORTRESS (185 km east of Ashgabat)
The entrance gate was on the northern side. Each wall was fortified by 12 circular towers. The fortress was surrounded by a deep defense moat filled with water. The southern walls has been destroyed by floods, but the other three walls were preserved till today. The remains of the inner walls of the fortress have also been preserved.
MEANE (200 km east of Ashgabat; 160 km southwest of Mary)
Mehne was a medieval urban Silk Road town that connected Merw with Serakhs. At the outskirts of the town the mausoleum of Abu Said (locally referred to as Meane Baba) is located. Abu Said (967-1049) was a well-known Sufi sheikh, and his mausoleum remains aт important pilgrim destination up to the present day. The construction belongs to the masterpieces of the Serakhs architectural school (XI-XII cc.) whose most important contribution to world architecture was the creation of the two-shelled dome or cupola. To reach the site you will need off-road transport.
NISSA (18 km west of Ashgabat)
A circular temple-hall where remains of a stone altar were found indicates the location for Zoroastrian worshipping. The most magnificent artifacts found till date at what is believed to have been the treasury is a large collection of ivory rythons. These can be admired at the National Museum in Ashgabat. Contrary to fortresses at other Silk Road centers in the region life in Old Nissa ceased by the end of Parthian rule (III c AD), but its shahristan (New Nissa) continued to fulfill an important trade and crafts function until the mid-19th century. Old Nissa has been enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007.
GEOK DEPE (45 km northwest of Ashgabat)
This destination includes the modern Saparmurat Haji mosque, a history museum and the ruins of the fortress, where in 1881 a battle between the forces of the Russian tsar and Turkmens of the Teke tribe took place. After the fall of Geok Depe Turkmenistan was subjugated to the Russian Tsarist Empire.
A mosque was constructed in 1995 and topped with a blue dome (Geok Gumbez), rising to a height of 42 m and flanked by four minarets each 63 m tall.
BAHARDEN/KOWATA (107 km northwest of Ashgabat)
The bottom of the lake is 12 m lower than the entrance hall. At the end of the cave there is an underground lake. The walls and the vaults of the cave are of lime stone. General length of the cave including the lake is 250 m. The depth of the lake is between 5-15 m. The water is highly saturated with hydrogen sulphide. The water taken out of the cave in the open air soon loses its smell because hydrogen sulphide evaporates. The air in the cave is saturated with moister and vapor, especially in summer. The effect of the water is very good to the skin and for the nervous system.
NOHUR (140 km northwest of Ashgabat)
Nohur is also a center of keteni (Turkmen silk dress material) weaving, and this art is practiced by virtually every household up to today. Next to its cultural interest, a visit to Nohur will also give an opportunity to enjoy magnificent mountain landscapes, canyons, waterfalls and highlands.
Owadan Tourism can arrange overnight in tents or stay at a private house. Nohur's highlands are accessible by four-wheel drive only.
KARAKALA (350 km northwest of Ashgabat)
In combination with the moderate climate, a stay in Karakala and easy hikes in the surrounding valleys are a surprising experience in a country that is largely made up out of desert.
Owadan Tourism can arrange overnight in tents or stay at a private house. Karakala’s valleys are accessible by four-wheel drive only.
BOKURDOK and ERBENT (80 and 160 km respectively north of Ashgabat)
Or watch the village women making Turkmen felt mats or knitting traditional colorful socks and amulets. You will get a feel for the hardships and the delights of life in the desert. These villages can be visited en route to or from Darwaza. For those interested, Owadan Tourism can arrange for meals and/or overnight stays in one of the villages.
DARWAZA (260 km north of Ashgabat)
Geologists had hoped the fire would go out in a few days but it has been burning ever since. Locals have named the cavern The Door to Hell, and the sight of the crater at night indeed gives a somewhat spooky feel. The crater now has a diameter of approximately 60 m, and a dept of 20 m. Hundreds of fires burn inside the crater, some of them with flames up to 10-15 m high.
The gas crater-as well as a water and mud-filled crater nearby-can be visited by four-wheel drive. The views are most impressive in the dark, and an overnight stay in tents near the crater is a unique experience, especially when accompanied by a barbeque dinner.
Owadan Tourism can arrange a trip for you, or include it in your larger itinerary, en route from Ashgabat to Dashoguz (and Kunya Urgench).
KARAKUM DESERT
Owadan Tourism can arrange fantastic short or longer jeep tours across any part of the Karakum desert for those that are looking for outdoor adventure, and are interested in going completely off the beaten track.
Balkanabad is the regional capital of Balkan Region. The booming oil and gas industry in Balkan Region has also caused this city to develop, with many foreign companies' subsidiary offices. It is home to several pleasant dining places and a comfortable hotel, and makes a strategic starting place for day excursions to Dehistan (in the south) or Yangikala (in the north).
The Caspian coast has a respectable recreational potential. A development plan of the Caspian coastal line was launched by Turkmenistan government in recent years. Highlights of the plan included the construction of luxurious accommodation complexes and the construction of a 7-kilometer long artificial canal, which will go through the Awaza sea resort and will pass by new park zones and restaurants. The man made river divides the Holiday Zone into separate recreation areas and offers transportation facilities for guests to reach the Caspian beaches.
Today, a dozen 5-star hotels have been completed and offer extremely comfortable accommodation, as well as pleasant dining options. All the hotels are equipped with services such as Internet access, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, children’s aquaparks, hair dressers, massage and other body and face treatments, bars and dancings.
Next to offering a pleasant place for recuperation, Awaza can also be used as a starting point for several (day) trips to sites of natural beauty or historical importance located in the surrounding area (Dehistan and Yangikala).
The coastal line running along Turkmenistan’s territory is approximately 650 km. The Caspian coastline is home to an amazingly diverse array of marine and wildlife. Among 120 different species of fish of the Caspian Sea, seven are different sturgeon species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. The Caspian seal and the magnificent white tailed sea eagle both call the Caspian Sea home. Hundreds of thousands of birds stay here for five-month wintering. Pink flamingos, three species of swans, geese, ducks, and coots are among them.
TURKMENBASHI (12 km east of Awaza)
There is an interesting museum in Turkmenbashi where you can get acuainted with mineral resources of Turkmenistan, fauna of the Caspian sea and Turkmenistan marine history. Small cruises along the Caspian Coast also start from here.
Owadan Tourism can arrange such cruises for you upon your request.
YANGIKALA (260 km east of Awaza; 170 km north of Balkanabad)
It offers unique sceneries of white, green, pink and reddish limestone rocks, breathtaking views and a wide diversity of terrain- hilly, mountainous and smooth. It is well worth the long ride. For those keen on adventure, camping at the old seabed can be arranged.
GOZLI ATA (230 km south east of Awaza; 130 km north of Balkanabad)
The mausoleum has a remarkable location with a range of white, pink, greenish and reddish rocks encircling the place.The graveyard at the southern edge of the place is interesting for its nicely carved stone tombs.
DEHISTAN (320 km southeast of Turkmenbashi; 170 km south of Balkanabad)
When you travel by road you will be able to get a feel for the Karakum Desert en route, particularly on the asphalted route Turkmenbashi-Yangikala. If you are interested in a more extensive experience in the desert, please contact us directly.
Owadan Tourism can arrange fantastic short or longer jeep tours across any part of the Karakum desert for those that are looking for outdoor adventure, and are interested in going completely off the beaten track. | ||||||
Visiting Ancient Merv we can explore the process of urbanization in Central Asia. The smallest and earliest city at Merv is Erk Kala (approximately VI c. BC), which comprises only 20 hectares. It was enclosed by massive walls and a moat. The only entrance-way had a ramp leading straight to the city. Georgina Hermann, who has contributed so much to Turkmenistan archeology, described it as One of the imposing sites in Merv. The city's wall was continually reinforced until the early Islamic period when both Erk and Gyaur Kala were gradually abandoned. 
Two outstanding monuments dating back to the Sasanid period are still visible on the territory of Ancient Merv - the Big Kyz Kala and small Kyz Kala (VI-VII cc). However, the Turkic name (in all Turkic languages Kyz means ‘girl’) doesn’t reflect the origin of the constructions. These rectangular clay castles - Koshks are of interesting architectural design, decorated from outside with corrugations. Different forms of vaults were used in these constructions. 
Another monument at Merw from the time of the 
Ice houses
Talkhatan Baba, located en route from the ancient Silk Road center of Merw to the Soltanbent Dam, is the name of a mosque that consists of three sections, constructed in 1095 in the heydays of Seljuk rule of the region. It is considered an exquisite example of this style of mosque construction and one of the best preserved mosques displaying Seljuk architectural master class. The mausoleum of Talkhatan Baba is situated in front of the mosque.
Old Sarakhs (VI c. B.C. - XIX c. A.D.) is the ancient and medieval city at the upper reaches of the Tejen river. It is one of the largest archaeological monuments of Southern Turkmenistan, a former centre of a great and rich oasis, and important trade junction leading routes to Merv and Nishapur, Abiverd and Merverud. A citadel in the shape of an irregular pentagon is located in the western part of the old city site. It towers 24 m high above the locality, and is surrounded by the walled shakhristan and a vast rabad. 
Turabeg Khanym mausoleum is located about 400 m northwest of Kutlug Timur minaret. Behind its tall and deep portal there is a small domed hall (dekhliz). 
The minaret is located to the south-east of Kyrk Molla. The tallest minaret in Central Asia is 15 m higher than Bukhara’s Kalyan minaret. Researchers think that the minaret was a part of a huge Friday mosque. The upper part of the minaret leans 1,5 m to the west. 
The building is notable for its remarkable conical dome, decorated with blue glazed bricks and rather high portal, decorated with stalactite design. 
The mausoleum is located next to the mausoleum of Khorezm shah Tekesh. The conical dome of this mausoleum is very Khorezmian. 
The mausoleum consists of entrance hall (dekhliz), two similar rooms on both sides of the hall and the shrine (gurkhana), where we can see the tomb of Nadjmedin Kubra (1145-1221) - the great Sufi and the founder of the Kubra order. 
When you travel by road you will be able to get a feel for the Karakum Desert en route, between Dashoguz or Kunya Urgench and Ashgabat. If you are interested in a more extensive experience in the desert, please 
Daya Hatyn is the name of a caravanserai is situated 173 km to the north of Turkmenabat. It served a large transshipment point on the ancient and medieval trade road Amul - Khorezm. The caravanserai is square in plan (53x53 m). In the middle there is an open courtyard along the perimeter of which a covered vaulted gallery and numerous large and small chambers are located. External corners were shaped into round towers. The building's walls were erected of mud brick; walls' facing, brickworks of arches, vaults and domes were made of burnt brick. The wide entrance to the caravanserai oriented to the north was shaped into a strongly projected arched portal. On both sides of the portal large symmetrical panels with epigraphic ornaments were placed.
Astana-baba (medieval Maimarg) is a settlement on the old caravan way from Balkh to Zemm and Amul, near the town of Atamyrat (old name: Kerki) at the banks of the Amu Darya River. The architectural complex in Astana-baba represents an unusual group of 4 domed bulks combined in a single system by entrance structures. The existing ensemble consists of several parts: opened corridor, small yard, portal, covered corridor, four-pylon hall, "mosque", Zeid-Ali and Zuveid-Ali shrine, divanakhana and narrow corridor connected to Kyzlyar-bibi mausoleum. Its oldest part - "mosque" and probably the entry peshtak (portal) refer to the XII century. The complex was completed in the XVII c. when to the space of three halls (mosque, Zeid-Ali and Zuveid-Ali shrine and divanakhana) a 9-domed dekhliz (vestibule) with 4 pylons was added. The mausoleum of Kyzlyar-bibi (XVIII-XIX cc.) forms the last extension. Astana-baba architectural complex represents the monument of local construction art and has no comparisons elsewhere. 
Kugitang is located at a strenuous 7-hour drive along the Amu Darya River southeast from Turkmenabad. Half way, in Atamurat (Kerki) you will find several cafes where you can stop for lunch, prior to crossing the pontoon bridge over the Amu Darya River.
The city was founded in 1881 when the administrative center of the Trans-Caspian province grew up near the ancient fortress of Ashgabat. The construction of Central Asian railway in 1881-1885 gave a powerful incentive to the further development of the city. At the end of the19th century many travelers described Ashgabat as a lovely city of considerable size. Historians suggest that here have been important settlements during Parthian and Seljuk times. However, today there are no monuments of any great historical value in the city. 
In 1921 the city was called Poltoratsk. In 1924 Ashgabat became the capital of the Turkmen Soviet social republic. In 1948 the city was completely destroyed by an earthquake that measured 9 on the Richter scale, and killed 110,000 people. The fraternal republics helped to rebuild Ashgabat, which was born for a second time after this terrible disaster. Ashgabat of the late 1980s became a typical Soviet city with almost all buildings constructed in a style socialist realism in reinforced concrete. Prior to the earthquake much of Ashgabat's constructions enjoyed a fusion of European and Turkmen architecture. 
Opened in 1998, the museum 9 halls houses the Turkmenistan’s major collection of artifacts discovered at various excavation sites in Turkmenistan, one of the biggest hand -made carpets in the world, a good collection of Turkmenistan jewelry, called silver rain and traditional costumes. The museum is open 10.00-17.00, except Tuesdays and the first Monday of each month.
Immediately upon your arrival in Ashgabat you will be welcomed by a vast statue of the mythical founding father of the Turkmen nation, Oguzkhan. 
One of the biggest parks of post-independence Ashgabat, first planned in 1993. More than 150 fountains are decorating this park and among them is the highest cascading fountain in the world. 
In the center of Ashgabat, with a view onto the central square, we can see a monument that consists of 10 Ahalteke horses, the pride of Turkmenistan. 
The mosque, inaugurated in 1998 and constructed by a Turkish construction company, is named after Ertogrul Ghazi, the father of Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. 
At this biggest outdoor market in Central Asia you can try your bargaining talents. It is located on the southern outskirts of Ashgabat. Whether you buy anything or not, the lively atmosphere should not be missed. 
Built between 2002 and 2004 the Turkmenbashi Spiritual Mosque, the largest in Central Asia, is located about 10 km from Ashgabat. 
At the southern end of the ancient Parthian fortified citadel we find the remains of an architectural complex that consisted of the Jemal-Ad-Din mosque, a tomb in front of it, and two large domed buildings on the side. According to the inscription on its façade, the mosque was constructed by Mohamed Khudaidot at the time when Khorasan was ruled by Timurid governor Abul-Kasim Baber. In terms of its architectural magnificence, this mosque vied with many famous buildings of the ancient East. Glazed bricks were employed for the construction of this complex. The portal was decorated with two dragons each 9m, in black and white majolica. Unfortunately during the 1948 earthquake this remarkable monument completely collapsed. Nowadays, on the northern side of the ruins there is a place for commemorative meals (sadaka) and a pilgrim’s accommodation. 
Abiverd is an urban archeological site that existed since II c. BC. Abiverd was one of the principal Silk Road cities of Northern Khorasan, en route from Merw to Nishapur. Its location, moderate climate, abundant bazaars, highly-developed ceramics and metal craft and advanced irrigation systems made it into a popular travel destination, documented repeatedly by historians and highly appreciated by Parthian, Arab, Persian and Seljuk rulers, alongside Merw, Nissa and Serakhs. Abiverd enjoyed close connections with Nishapur. In the 11th c. Abiverd was tussled between the Seljuks and the Gaznevids and was visited by the Seljuk sultan Togrulbek and the Gaznevid sultan Masud. Abiverd was destroyed by the Mongols in 1221, but recovered in later centuries. Today, the remains of the city's walled citadel and the shahristan remain proof of the importance of the city, which was finally completely disrupted when the local water sources dried up in the XIX c AD. Abiverd in next to the main road from Ashgabat to Mary and a visit does not require four-wheel drive. 
The archeological site of Ulug Depe (26 ha) is unique in that it represents the longest chronological sequence of human occupation ever found on the territory of Central Asia. The 30-m high hill at the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains near Dushak town revealed evidence of human inhabitation as far back as the Neolithic era, as well as constructions dating back to the Bronze Age and Stone Age. 
The fortress of Kone Khivaabad was built on the order of Persian governor Nodir Shah in the 1740s. It was square in shape, and each wall was 1,000 m long. The walls were 2-3 meters think, and 3 meters high. 
Located on a natural high platform at the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains, the urban site of Nissa thanks its importance to the early Parthian rulers who took over control of the area from the Seleucids in the middle of the III c BC. Under Parthian rule the fortified territory (Old Nissa) was protected by 43 defense towers, and was called Mitridatkert (literally: fortress of [Parthian] king Mithridat). Hellenistic influence is clearly visible in the building architecture, sculptures and other interior decorations found at the site. 
Geok Depe (Green Hill) fortress is located about 45 km to the south-west of Ashgabat.
The Kowata underground lake is located in Baharden village. In the world there are some hundreds caverns, which are generated by hot underground water springs. One of these caverns is in our country. The first mention of this cave appeared in the middle of the 19th century in Russian press. The name of this cave is Kow Ata- father of caves. The Baharden underground lake, which appeared some thousand years ago, is located in this cavern. The water in the lake is connected with the so-called line of thermal water springs of the Kopet Dag range with swimming facilities all a year round. Long ago Turkmen people knew already about the existence of this cavern and the medicinal characteristics of the water in the lake. At the end of the 19th century the cave attracted the attention of scientists and they began to study it. High mineralization and temperature (33-37 degrees Celsius) testify to the fact that the water in the lake rises from the depth of 600-650 m. 
Nohur valley and village is located a bit more than 200 km northwest of Ashgabat and is home to a small community that lives in the high valleys of the Kopetdag Mountains. Nohur local culture has been preserved due to its isolation from mainland Turkmenistan, and its distinctive features can be seen in the housing construction and cemetery outlook. 
Karakala is located in a lush Kopetdag mountain valley region, and is home to some unique sub-tropical flora and fauna, protected in the Syunt Hazardag Nature Reserve. 
Erbent and Bokurdok are small villages inhabited by people from the Teke tribe. The villages are completely surrounded by sand dunes and a visit here gives you a glimpse into desert life. While having a cup of tea or chal (fermented camel’s milk), you can observe traditional living conditions in yurts and watch local household practices, such as the baking of Turkmen flat bread in a clay oven fired by saksaul desert wood, and the milking of the numerous camels. 
Darwaza literally means Gate. The whole area around Darwaza is rich in natural gas. While drilling in 1971 geologists accidentally found an underground cavern filled with natural gas. The ground beneath the drilling rig collapsed, leaving a large hole with a diameter of about 50-100 meters. To avoid poisonous gas discharge, it was decided to burn the gas. 
When you travel by road you will be able to get a feel for the Karakum Desert en route, particularly on the asphalted route Ashgabat-Dashoguz. If you are interested in a more extensive experience in the desert, please 
The Caspian Sea and the Awaza Holiday Resorts come together for a truly unprecedented sea experience. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkmenistan and people from all over the country visit the Awaza Resort Zone over the summer holidays. 
Although Awaza may sound too good to be true for low budget travellers, the pricing of the hotels is very reasonable, and a day’s rest in such a comfortable seaside location forms a surprisingly welcome time-out for those that have spent considerable time travelling through deserts and mountains, in search of the hidden historical and natural treasures of Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan borders the Caspian’s shores along with Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan and Russia. The Caspian Sea is completely landlocked, bringing a controversy over whether it is a sea or a lake. Its length is 1,280 km from north to south, and its breadth about 443 km. Its area reaches 393,680 sq. km, of which about 2,331 sq. km belong to its islands. The Caspian Sea fills the deepest part of a vast depression, known as the Aralo-Caspian depression. 
A trip to this region of canyons is an authentic adventure. This region was the location of the ancient Paratethys Sea until about 5,5 million years ago. 
The mausoleum of Gozli Ata is the most remote place of shrine pilgrimage in Turkmenistan. Hasan Ata Asyky Gozli Ata 
Dehistan (Misrian) was a town that thrived in the Silk Road period (connecting Khorezm with Iran and Arab countries), and rivaling Kunya Urgench and Merw in importance. Two 20 m high remains of minarets and the remains of a mosque portal of 18 m height, with the name of Khorezmshah Mohamed (1200-1220) inscribed in it, survived. On the territory of the nearby cemetery five mausoleums (XI-XII cc.) survived, as well as the mosque-mausoleum of Shir-Kabir. This is the earliest (IX-X cc.) mosque among those that survived in Turkmenistan. Original fragments were preserved in the uniquely carved mihrab. A trip through the desert terrain to this mystical place is an impressive experience, particularly in combination with an overnight stay in tents next to the age-old ruins.
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