Travelwings

Visit Turkmenistan, a Central Asian delight extraordinarily renowned for its grandiose history, glistering facades, exclusive political scenarios, and several natural marvels. Turkmen is a mecca for travelers who wish to explore the gorgeousness of its peculiar sites and decipher the mysteries of its extravagance. Turkmenistan stands out as a land of strong beliefs; it appears like a mix of western world charm with North Korean instincts which make it more interesting and diverse in certain ways. The immortal magic residing in its aura is a perpetual trail that is carried along since the good old days of the past. Open up the windows of your mind and the doors of your heart to encounter the swoon-worthy miracles stored in its never-ending elegance. The invisible glamour of a glorious country is undoubtedly admirable and unconventional. Explore Turkmenistan tourism and undergo an utterly ravishing journey that is as exquisite as it could be.

USEFUL INFO. ABOUT TURKMENISTAN

OFFICIAL NAME: Republic of Turkmenistan (Turkmenistan Respublikasy)

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Unitary presidential republic

CAPITAL & LARGEST CITY: Ashgabat

POPULATION: 5,850,901 (est. 2018)

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE(S): Turkmen

LANGUAGES SPOKEN: Turkmen, Russian and many other languages

ETHNICITY: Turkmen, Uzbek, Russian, Kazakh, and others

CURRENCY: Turkmen manat (TMT)

AREA: 491,210 km2 (189,660 sq. mi)

MAP REFERRED: Asia

REGION: Central Asia

COASTLINE: 1,768 kilometers

HIGHEST POINT: Mount Ayrybaba (3,139 m)

LOWEST POINT: Akjagaya Depression (close to 100 meters below sea level)

NEIGHBORING PLACES: Kazakistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Azerbaijan (maritime border)

NATIONAL SYMBOL: The emblem of Turkmenistan

National COLOURS: Red, green, yellow, and white

FAMOUS FOR: Cotton Production, Desert Lands, Exports Of Electrical Power, Reserves Of Natural Gas, and Oil

TIME ZONE: UTC+05 (TMT)

DRIVING SIDE: Right

LITERACY RATE: 99.7%

AIRPORTS IN TURKMENISTAN:

Ashgabat International Airport

Balkanabat Airport

Dashoguz Airport

Kerki Airport

Mary Airport

Turkmenbashi Airport

Turkmenabat Airport

AVG. COST PER DAY: USD 100 per day

NETWORK / CONNECTIVITY

Turkmen-telecom is a state-owned brand and the primary provider of a public telephone, email, and internet services. The private service provider is BCTI (BCTI became MTS Turkmenistan in 2005). The cheapest Internet access in Turkmenistan costs $43 per month but only allows two gigabytes of traffic.

Internet access in Turkmenistan was gained in the year of 1997 but several independent internet service providers were forced to quit in 2001. The statistical internet usage of Turkmenistan is not high hence it is recommended to stick to your home country services.

Unfortunately, public Wi-Fi services are not highly available, and connectivity is also not very good. Perfect place to indulge in a Digital Detox! Alternatively, before traveling to Turkmenistan get your International pack recharged and make the most of it. Stay connected with your friends and family through online applications (Instagram, Skype, and much more).

The official name of Turkmenistan's currency is Turkmenistan manat. Turkmen manat was introduced on 1st Nov 1993. Sometimes, the abbreviation, 'm' is used to refer to manat, for eg., 1000m. The subunit of Turkmenistan's money is tenge.

Symbol: T
Code: TMM
1 manat = 100 tenge

Turkmenistan's currency to AED (Turkmenistan manat to AED)
1 Turkmenistan manat (TMM)= 1.05 United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) (as on 18 MAY 2020)
**So, Turkmenistan's currency exchange rate in Dubai is 1.05 AED.
Manat notes can be found in denominations of 5 manats, 1 manat, 50 manats, 20 manats, 100 manats, 10 manats, and 500 manats.
Manat coins can be found in denominations of 2 tenge, 5 tenge, 50 tenge, 1 manat, 20 tenge, 10 tenge, 2 manat, and 1 tenge.

Turkmenistan currency exchange rates:

Turkmenistan currency (Turkmenistan manat) to INR: 21.64 INR

Turkmenistan currency (Turkmenistan manat) to USD: 0.29 USD

Turkmenistan currency (Turkmenistan manat) to naira: 111.83 Nigerian Naira

Turkmenistan currency (Turkmenistan manat) to PKR: 46.1 PKR

Turkmenistan currency (Turkmenistan manat) to Euro: 0.26 Euro

Other countries exchange rates to Turkmenistan Currency:

1 USD to Turkmenistan manat: 3.50 TMM

1 INR to Turkmenistan manat: 0.046 TMM

1 Euro to Turkmenistan manat: 3.83 TMM

More Turkmenistan currency exchange rate to USD:

100 Turkmenistan manat (TMM) to USD: 28.59 USD

1000 Turkmenistan manat (TMM) to USD: 285.95 USD

10000 Turkmenistan manat (TMM) to USD: 2,859. 48 USD

**Please note that Travelers Cheques are NOT accepted in most places.

Turkmenistan's history is a load of mystery and ever since early history, it has faced numerous evolutions. Around 2000 BC Indo-European Iranian tribes came and later the nomadic tribes settled in this Central Asian land.

The Indo-European and Turko-Mongol groups expanded in the region and began their own cultures and traditions. The early Iranian tribes had many sub-groups like the Massagetae, Scythians/Sakas, and early Sogdians. The country was a passing point of many tribes and faced numerous invasions from time to time.

The written history of Turkmenistan is proof that the early phase of history was dominated by the Iranians and they shaped the country for a very long time. Most inhabitants were converted to Hanifism. Later, the Arab invasion brought Islam culture and traditions with them.

Modern Turkmenistan was re-formed by the Russian empire in the late 19th century. The Russian Revolution certainly transformed Turkmenistan from an Islamic tribal society to a totalitarian Leninist. Later after the independence a former (Saparmurat Niyazov) local communist party boss, declared himself an absolute ruler for life as Turkmenbashi or Leader of the Turkmen.

Turkmenistan is a Central Asian country bordering the Caspian Sea to the west, Iran, and Afghanistan to the south, Uzbekistan to the north-east, and Kazakhstan to the north-west. Turkmenistan is a part of the Post-Soviet states since 1991 and it is the southernmost republic of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The length of Turkmenistan's marine border is (1,786 km (1,110 mi)). The total area of Turkmenistan is 488,100 ㎢. It is the fourth important state among the former Soviet republics. The length of its east to West extent is 1,100 km (680 mi) and North to South extent is 650 km (400 mi).

Turkmenistan's geography consists of a flat-to-rolling sandy desert. In fact, 70% of the country is covered in sand, the Karakum. The average elevation of Turkmenistan is 100 to 220 m. The highest point is Mount Ayrybaba (3,139 m) and the lowest point is the Akjagaya Depression in Sarygamysh Lake (100 meters below sea level).

The Central Asian country mostly experiences hot weather and it is a perfect getaway destination as it borders with the other four countries. The landscape of Turkmenistan undergoes constant transformation and the capital city Ashgabat is a major tourist spot all over the country with an amazing geography.

Turkmenistan's culture is quite contrasting from the cultural traditions of the other neighboring Islam countries. The region was a center for nomadic tribes. It gave rise to the transitions and fusion of the original and authentic culture of Turkmenistan.

Turkmen's culture development and formation have evolved from time to time which gave it various identities. Turkic-speaking oguzs had unique beliefs, customs, costumes, and traditions that also affected or influenced its literature, music, and authentic folklore.

Music
Khorasani music and Turkmen music has many similarities and the use of traditional instruments can be witnessed in folk songs. The rise in music culture took place in the late 19th century and it has been a major stream to express feelings and thoughts.

Handicrafts
The boutique and art culture of Turkmenistan is popular. The whole market majors in the trading of handmade products. Embroidery is one of the basic talents of Turkmen natives. Rugs, long dress, pottery, wall hangings, and much more are a part of this vast and growing culture.

FOOD & DRINK
Turkmenistan's cuisine is similar to the other Central Asian cuisines. The Islam dominating country is mainly engaged in Arab style cooking and the use if rich flavors, tasteful ingredients, along with minced meat. Melon is popular in Turkmenistan. Every household eats it. It is considered as one of the main products of Turkmenistan's food.

Rice, carrot, onion, ground meat, pumpkin, and mutton are the main products used in cooking authentic Turk food. Vegetable soups are served as supper and the inclusion of fresh products maximizes the taste of the food. In Turkmenistan, people eat food mainly four times. Ichlekli (Turkmen Shepherd's Pie) is Turkmenistan's traditional food and national dish.

The Asian influence can certainly be witnessed in the Turkmen cuisines. Spicy curry with rice and amazing seasoning can be seen as its major food component. Lunch and dinner are heavy, varied dishes are served including meat and vegetables, evenings are mainly for fruits and light snacks. Breakfasts include bread, milk, eggs that are believed to give the required energy to stay for an energetic day.

Green tea is the primary beverage of Turkmenistan. Alcoholic beverages are sold less as it is an Islam dominating country and it is restricted to drink alcohol in the religion. Still, vodka and beer are served in many parts of the country due to regional diversity.

Must-Try Delicacies: Manti, Kazanlama, Gutap, Kovurma, Chorek, Shashlyk, Dogroma chorba, Shurpa, and much more.

Must-Try Drinks: Green tea, camel's milk, chai (tea), vodka, beer, wine, and brandy.

One of the major reasons to explore Turkmenistan is the facades of white. The country has over 543 white-marble buildings in total.

To encounter Turkmenistan's tourist places like 'door to hell' (Darvaza crater), 'the Yangykala Canyon', 'Parthian Fortresses of Nisa', and a lot of more attractive places for an amazing experience.

To witness rich history, old-age glory, and prestigious antiquity of Turkmenistan in its old towns, UNESCO heritage spots, and national museums.

To appreciate its fascinating culture that is an amalgamation of varied communities and numerous beliefs of past and present.

To walk-a-mile and get through the fascinating blend of alluring landscapes that cradle the essence of Turkmenistan, the scenic Central Asian treat.

To discover an interesting underground cave lake. With an emerald appearance and soothing warmth, the sight is truly ecstatic and magnificent.

To get on a roller coaster ride of ancient delight and come across Turkemenistan's tourist attractions like the buried ruins of Gonus Tepe that reveals the existential facts of 7th Millennium BC.

To check out the spread of golden sand dunes that are preserved by UNESCO since 1979 and houses several creatures of the hot land.

To shop your heart out and grab the best of the best deals on handmade creations and bohemian accessories.

To bless yourself with a blissful treat of Turkmenistan's mosques as it is a liberal Muslim country.

To appreciate the unique Turkmen architecture that looks extremely beautiful.

To get the taste of amazing Turkmen food which is made with the use of authentic Asian ingredients that hits the taste buds at the right place and make your eating time, the experience of a lifetime.

To experience a 'Wow' moment while cheering for the thrilling horse races which are kind of a legacy and a weekly tournament which draws the attention of a huge crowd of locals and tourists.

To feel the wind in your hair, sand under feet, and hear melodic waves in Turkmenistan's gorgeous seaside area, the Caspian Sea.

To enjoy the dazzling Turkmenistan tourism and venture in its contemporary cities, stunning shopping complexes, and tour in the palatial creations that are renowned worldwide.

TURKMENISTAN CLIMATE | WEATHER
Turkmenistan's climate is distinctively divided into four seasons, winter, spring, summer, and fall. Summer can be extremely hot specifically in the desert areas and winters are cold. In Turkmenistan, the best time to visit falls in the months of March to June and September to November.

The contrast of weather in these specific months is favorable and suitable for traveling. Most of Turkmenistan's tour packages recommend traveling during these months as the country is at its peak beauty at this time of the year nature gifts the tourist with the best travel experiences scenic appearances.

Turkmenistan's weather on a yearly basis fluctuates due to the rise in pollution and global warming. But the country is truly livable, also the weather conditions are bearable. All you need is a perfect suitcase filled with proper requirements and you are all set to commence your venture.

Peak season
Turkmenistan's temperature during Spring (March to April): 20℃ (avg. temp.)
Turkmenistan's temperature during Autumn (September to October): 18℃ (avg. temp.)

Off-season
Turkmenistan's temperature during winter (November to February): 30℃ (avg. temp.)
Turkmenistan's temperature during summer (May to August): 8℃ (avg. temp.)

Visit Turkmenistan with Family

Darvaza gas crater, an astounding tourist attraction in Turkmenistan known as the 'door to hell', it is basically a fire pit at a collapsed gasfield.

Karakum Desert, a large desert reserve, the sandy surface covers almost 70% of Turkmenistan.

Monument of Neutrality, a tower with a viewing deck and a statue that treats you with the amazing views of the mesmerizing surroundings.

Turkmenbasy Ruhy Mosque, a mausoleum with amazing architecture.

Visit Turkmenistan as a Couple

Gonur Tepe, known as the archaeological site of ancient history and unique architecture.

Altyn Asyr Bazar, the largest market in Turkmenistan with amazing local and antique products for everyone. The variety and colors you see in this market are unbelievable.

Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, a prominent landmark in Ashgabat with its four minarets and a central dome and has a lavish interior decoration with fine stained-glass windows.

Koytendag Nature Reserve, a natural reserve that incorporates four sanctuaries and awe-inspiring views of mother nature.

Visit Turkmenistan with Friends

Gaplangyr Nature Reserve, a natural reserve that protects and restores indigenous flora and fauna and exhibits the best-of-the-best scene of natural extravagance.

Kow Ata, an underground lake that is like a surprise treat of nature and beauty, the tourist attraction looks like a mystery spot from some thriller fiction movie.

Uly Balkan, the great mountain range of Turkmenistan that is surrounded by the golden desert lands and natural magnificence.

"White City Ashgabat" Park, a beautiful park located in the capital city of Ashgabat with attractive decoration and a monument at the center of it.

Visit Turkmenistan with Kids

Independence Monument, an amazing landmark monument with distinctive design along with an observation terrace that invites you for a visual treat.

Turkmen Carpet Museum, the museum exhibits an amazing collection of vibrant and varied carpets that look classy and gorgeous.

National Museum of Turkmenistan, a gallery that takes you through the history, culture, and traditions of Turkmenistan, it feels like the journey of time from past to present.

What to Buy?

Bukhara rugs

Turkmen handicrafts

Silver utensils

Bohemian accessories

Telpek, Turkmen sheepskin hats

Embroided costumes

Keteni (silk homespun fabric)

Ceramics

Colorful shawls

Silk scarfs

Handmade shoes

Cotton clothes

Dry foodstuffs

Home decors

Colorful windowpane covers

Table cloths

Warm jackets

Interesting paintings

Pottery

Darvaza gas crater
It is one of the famous Turkmenistan attractions and an iconic tourist spot located in the Ahal Province. The reason behind its special condition is that a natural gas field collapsed into a cavern and some Geologists knowingly put fire to avoid the spread of methane gas. It has been burning since 1971.
Timing: 24 hours
Price: FREE

Gonur Tepe
It is an archeological site that tells a lot about Turkmen's history and ancient belongings. The site is located about 60 km north of Mary. The country houses a large Bronze age settlement and the view is truly ecstatic. The site is dated from 2400-1600 BCE.
Timing: *not mentioned
Price: *not mentioned

Turkmenbasy Ruhy Mosque
The mosque is located in the village of Gypjak. It is one of Turkmenistan's must-see tourist spots. The golden-colored dome with 4 pillars around it and a white marble facade appears tranquil. It is one of the most visited religious spots in Turkmenistan.
*Info: Rarely open to the public as it is a religious area, but you can go to offer your prayers.

Kow Ata
It is a fascinating area to discover in Turkmenistan. This Turkmenistan tourist spot is an underground lake and it looks like a scene from a mystery movie. One of the weird facts about this area is that it is the largest known colony of bats in Central Asia. This famous swimming spot is for all the adventure seekers.
Timing: 9 am to 7 pm
Price: US$5

National Museum of Turkmenistan
The most visited museum in Turkmenistan that has seven permanent galleries incorporating history, present-day culture, and ethnography. It is the place where you can get amazing knowledge about Turkmenistan's past and present. It was opened on 12 November 1998.
Timing: Every day 9 am to 5 pm
Price: US$10 per person

Other Popular Places to Visit

Karakum Desert

Independence Monument

Monument of Neutrality

Ertugrul Gazi Mosque

Mausoleum of Soltan Sanjar

Turkmen Carpet Museum

Repetek Biosphere State Reserve

Yangykala-Schlucht

Altyn Asyr Bazar

The Gates of Hell

Great Kyz Kala

Old Nisa

Alem Center

Timur Qutlugh Minaret

Turkmenistan TV Tower

Badhyz State Nature Reserve

Erk Kala

Oguzhan Palace

Gaplangyr Nature Reserve

Turabek Khanum Mausoleum

Namazga-Tepe

Astana-Baba Mausoleum

Sultan Kala

Koytendag Nature Reserve

Ruhyyet Palace

Mohammed ibn Zayd Mausoleum

Hezreti Osman Mosque

Mary Museum

Altyn Depe

Saparmurat Hajji Mosque

Independence Park

Il Arslan Mausoleum

Kopetdag Nature Reserve

World of Turkmenbashi Tales....and many more

Most Popular Regions to Visit in Turkmenistan
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
The capital city of Turkmenistan is renowned for its white marble facade. The city holds a Guinness book of world records for holding the maximum number of white buildings. Ashgabat tourism is also renowned due to its grandiose national monuments.
Ashgabat attractions: Independence Monument, Monument of Neutrality, Turkmenbasy Ruhy Mosque, and much more.

Mary, Turkmenistan
The ancient city is located on the Murgab River and it is famous for its fabulous city break. You can witness some amazing tourist sites from the good old days as the country is filled with historical extravagance. Mary's weather is most favorable in spring.
Mary attractions: Ancient Merv, Gonur Depe, National History and Ethnology Museum, Pokrovskaya Church, and much more.

Dasoguz, Turkmenistan
It is located in northern Turkmenistan and holds historical prominence. The city is near to Uzbekistan and it makes it an appropriate place for a getaway. The town from Soviet times is famous for its mosques, architectural magnificence, and beauty.
Dasoguz attractions: Kunya-Urgench, Local History Museum, Gorogly Park, Victory Monument, and much more.

If you can make time....
More Places to Explore in Turkmenistan

Turkmenabat, Turkmenistan

Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan

Balkanabat, Turkmenistan

Dashoguz, Turkmenistan

Koneurgench, Turkmenistan

Tejen, Turkmenistan

Bayramaly, Turkmenistan

Abadan, Turkmenistan

Kerki, Turkmenistan

Gowurdak, Turkmenistan

Yoloten, Turkmenistan

Bereket, Turkmenistan

Serdar, Turkmenistan

Serhetabat, Turkmenistan

Kum Dag, Turkmenistan

Akdepe, Turkmenistan

Darvaza, Turkmenistan

Esenguly, Turkmenistan

Murgap, Turkmenistan

Farab, Turkmenistan

Tahta, Turkmenistan

Tagtabazar, Turkmenistan....and many other cities, towns, and villages

Khait
It is also known as the Eid Al-Fitr festival and it is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in Islam. The festival ends in the month of Ramadan and it is celebrated with mountains of food and prayer.
Location: All over Turkmenistan
Date: May

Kurban Bairam
It is also known as the Eid al-Adha festival and it is a major celebration in Islam. It is celebrated by sacrificing sheep and cooking a meal with the family.
Location: All over Turkmenistan
Date: July

Melon day
It is celebrated as a National holiday and melon is a major Turken food eaten by the locals. People celebrate this festival by cooking meals with their family and eating it with their loved ones.
Location: Turkmenistan
Date: 9 August

Carpet day
Carpet is one of the major products exported in Turkmenistan and the market is really big too. The carpet industry is also part of many family traditions, so it is celebrated on a wide scale.
Location: Turkmenistan
Date: Last Sunday of May

To travel to Turkmenistan, your passport should be valid for at least six months past the date of your letter of invitation. The Letter of invitation certified by the Government of Turkmenistan; without this you will not be allowed to enter the country. A proper visa should be there and a registration fee upon your arrival has to be paid of USD 29.

For Turkmen citizens: Turkmen citizens have a visa-free or visa on arrival access to 51 countries and territories, ranking the Turkmen passport 93rd in terms of travel freedom.

Special Information:
As per Turkmenistan's law and Visa policies , citizens of all countries require a Turkmenistan's visa to enter the country. If someone has a special passport or they are from certain parts of Kazakhstan or Uzbekistan, they DO NOT require a Turkmen visa to travel.

Transit visas
Citizens of all countries have the right to visa-free transit through the international transit area of Ashgabat International Airport.

**Please note that the information is subject to change. For the latest information and updates, please contact your embassy.

Rent-A-Car/ Taxi
It is convenient to travel in and around Turkmenistan in a taxi. The availability is fine, but you might have to wait for it during rush hours. Price may vary as per the time slot. The avg cost of taxis in Turkmenistan is 2.86 USD to 5.72 USD approximately.

Train tours
The train services in Turkmenistan are affordable and they take you to the desired destination as the connectivity is good. You can get the schedule details of the train online. The approximate fare of the train ticket is 5.72 USD.

Via Water Route
You can reach Turkmenistan via the water route as it shares a maritime border with Azerbaijan. The ferry rides cost may vary as per the passenger number. Approximately the ferry fare lies in the range of $65 - $75.

Via Air Route
Turkmenistan can easily be reached via a flight. The rate varies as per the destination and flight policies.

**Info: Due to border conflicts in Turkmenistan, you cannot travel to Turkmenistan via the road route or train route.

Turkmenistan is a mysterious country, yet it attracts a varied number of tourists all year round and the best travel tip for all the visitors is to explore every single corner of this secluded country.

Do explore the unique tourist spot, 'the door to hell', it is an iconic spot and the story behind it is tragic.

As a travel tip, one of the main things to do in Turkmenistan is to explore its archeological sites of Bronze settlements.

Drinking and smoking in public areas are strictly prohibited.

The cuisines of Turkmenistan are typically Central Asian, and meat is the main food item. If you are vegetarian, choose your eating outlet as per your comfort and preferences. DO check if the restaurant sells vegetarian food.

Tipping culture is followed in Turkmenistan but a smaller number of tips in restaurants can be appreciated.

Keteni, homespun silk fabric is one of the best souvenirs bought in Turkmenistan. It can be spotted in any local market and it is available in a varied range of colors and textures.

Certain goods that you can import into Turkmenistan duty-free are 200 cigarettes or 200g of tobacco (passengers aged 16 and over) and 2L of alcoholic drinks (passengers aged 21 and over)

In Turkmenistan money, exchange offices can be found in many places, so, you can freely exchange your local currency into Turkmenistan's new manat.

Turkmenistan is an affordable place and fits for budget travelers. The avg cost per day is USD 100. Lunch and dinner costs till USD 5 which is quite reasonable.

The country uses European-style two-pin plugs and sockets are type C and type F, so do carry some adapters with you.

Keep your pronunciation tab always open while traveling as it might be hard to pronounce several names of the tourist places or attractions.

Pack weather favorable clothes. Do check weather reports before the time of your travel to get the accurate weather forecast.

Make use of public charging spots in case of emergencies.

The place is a paradise for meat lovers.

Do not reveal the location of your accommodation to strangers.

Do always carry some local currency, it is recommended to carry changes to save time and also carry money with fewer denominations.

Do make a note of the traffic rules and regulations of Turkmenistan before self-driving.

Signing for travel insurance is highly RECOMMENDED.

Do not indulge in any sort of photography in the prohibited areas.

There are specific no-travel zones, mainly the border areas Iran, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan, region of Dashoguz (including Dashoguz city), and areas of the Caspian coast.

SAFETY TIPS

No country in this world is crime-free but Turkeminstan is a safe country to travel in.

In Turkmenistan, there are very low incidents of violent crime, but cases of pickpocketing, mugging, and theft can be seen in many areas all over the country.

Be aware of scams, try not to fall for weird suggestions made by strangers as a precaution is better than cure.

Make sure to take overnight trains with utmost security as night travels are a bit unsafe and invite opportunistic thieves.

Keep your belongings secure and avoid flashing valuables and expensive belongings.

As a major safety tip, it is advised to not travel in the border area of Turkmenistan and Afghanistan due to the ongoing conflicts and also terrorism.

Do not walk alone through the areas to the north-east and east (recognized areas for drugs and violent crime) of the capital Ashgabat, especially after sunset.

Always move out with zipped bags to carry your belongings, these bags are more reliable in terms of safety and security.

Nightclubs are safe but still under the influence of spirits something wrong might happen, so it is recommended to drink as per your tolerance power, and also the imported drinks are quite expensive to drink accordingly.

To travel to a restricted zone you need to avail the permission document from the government (the processing time for such permits is 10 working days).

DO install the translation app of the Turkmen language.

Be cautious in the mountains while hiking.

DO NOT reveal your address or room number to any stranger.

Always keep printed proof of all the pre-bookings or online bookings you make.

DO keep your visa and passport in your bag before heading out.

Obtain a valid tourist driving license before renting a car.

DO NOT click pictures of the restricted areas, the Turkmen laws are really strict and you might be highly punished for violating the rules and regulations.

Always keep the emergency numbers of Turkmenistan on speed dial, 112 is the General emergency number all over Central Asia.

Park vehicles in the legit parking places only.

HEALTH

It is recommended to indulge in well-cooked and well-boiled food to avoid any health complications in Turkmenistan.

All medications are prohibited in Turkmenistan containing several formulations like

Tramadol
Codeine
Temazepam
Morphine
Opiates or any containing similar constituent components are illegal in Turkmenistan.

You should be up to date with routine vaccinations such as

Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)
Diphtheria
Polio
Tetanus

It is recommended not to drink tap water in Turkmenistan.

Health services of Turkmenistan aren't the best so it's worth making sure your vaccinations are up to date.

Always declare any medications on arrival into the country.

Summers can get humid in Turkmenistan so stay hydrated all the time to avoid dehydration.

Must carry a mini-first aid box for emergency requirements.

Do take mosquito repellents to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.

DO get medical insurance before traveling to Turkmenistan.

Obtain an eye-cooling drop to protect the eyes from being strained.

It is recommended to keep face masks to avoid tiny dust particles.

Always keep essentials like

Hand sanitizers
Wet tissues,
Germ-kill sprays

Carry your medications for a considerable period.

Do keep valid prescriptions in case of emergencies.

Do carry painkillers and pain relief sprays.

WHAT TO PACK?

Tank tops and t-shirts

Sweaters (if visiting during winters)

Warm jacket

Cap

Scarf

Shorts till knee length

Water bottle

Cargo pant

Light sneakers

Pair of goggles

Water bottle

Battery charger and power bank

Camera with extra batteries

A light jacket or pullovers

ID cards

Wet wipes

Torch

Toiletries

Waterproof jackets or umbrella

Passport and Visa

Printed travel documents and tickets

Sport shoes or hiking shoes

Small backpack to carry essentials

DRESS CODE & ETIQUETTE

Turkmenistan is conservative when it comes to dressing code.

Before visiting any religious site make sure to cover your head and shoulders.

The typical attire for a woman in Turkmenistan is a long dress known as a koynek. The length of the dress almost reaches the floor and it is embroidered around the neck.

Women and men wear headgear and the traditional clothing style is still very common in the country.

Youngsters in Turkmenistan wear western clothes, but it is not well accepted in many parts of the country.

Dress as per the weather conditions, make sure to check the weather conditions before traveling to Turkmenistan.

Keep a jacket with you for the evening as it might get cool.

PLACES TO VISIT NEAR TURKMENISTAN
Kazakhstan (413km)
It is a part of the former Soviet republic. The country is famous for its mountain and lush green spaces that endorses the beauty of this Central Asian treat.

Uzbekistan (504 km)
It is a Central Asian country that is best known for its mosques, mausoleums, and other sites linked to the Silk Road.

Afghanistan (918 km)
It is a landlocked country in southern Central Asia. The country is most famous for its pomegranates all over Asia.

Iran (899km)
It is the second-largest country in the Middle East. It is famous for Persian culture, luxurious rugs, and lush gardens. The beauty of this country is mesmerizing.

Distance Between Places of Importance in and around Turkmenistan

Ashgabat to Mary: 306 km

Mary to Dashoguz: 497.9 km

Dashoguz to Ashgabat: 598.1 km

Nur-sultan to Turkmenistan: 1,642 km

Tashkent to Turkmenistan: 862 km

Kabul to Turkmenistan: 989 km

Tehran to Turkmenistan: 808 km

Turkmenistan is one of the least visited countries all over the world.

70% area of Turkmenistan geography is filled with the Karakum Desert or Black Sand.

The Darvaza gate crater is a tragic spot of gas leak turned into a tourist attraction.

Turkmenistan is famous for its several Silk Road cities.

You can identify a traditional nomadic Oghuz tribe man by his Telpek (sheepskin hat).

Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan is in the list of Guinness Book of World Records for housing an amazing number of white marble buildings.

Plov is the most favorite dish in Turkmenistan.

Melons are so famous in Turkmen that one National holiday is registered on its name.

Turkmenistan was ruled by a dictator between 1991 to 2006.

Turkmenistan holds the Guinness World Record for the largest indoor Ferris wheel in an architectural structure.

The Ancient City of Merv in Turkmenistan is redesigned several times as it was destroyed many times.

The hottest day in Turkmenistan reached a temperature of 122 F in July 1983.

Turkmenistan has the 6th largest oil and natural gas reserves in the world.

One of the weirdest facts about Turkmenistan is that about 15,000 public health workers were dismissed in March 2015 as it was planned that everyone should come to the capital (Ashgabat) for treatment.

Turkmenistan is like a North Korea in Central Asia, it has very strict visa requirements.

Ashgabat holds the Guinness World Record for the most public pools in a single place.

the days of the week and months of the year were renamed to Turkmen National Symbols, between 2002 and 2008.

Turkmenistan's first satellite was launched in 2015 and in the same year, satellite dishes were banned to stop Turkmen's gaining access to international media.

Saparmurat Niyazov, the Turkmen leader's personality was taken as a reference in the movie "The dictator".

Turkmen ranks 178th out of 180 in the list of world press freedom. It is just above North Korea and Eritrea. The Central Asian country is on the list of top 10 most censored countries.

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