Ahal Province Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and travel tips for Ahal Province in Turkmenistan. Plan your trip with our complete travel guide.


Introduction to Ahal Province

Ahal Province is located in northwest Turkmenistan in Central Asia, sharing its border with Iran. The province has a blend of historical landmarks, modern cities, vast deserts, and natural attractions to explore. The pastoral region of Ahal is a perfect travel destination for history buffs, adventure enthusiasts, and travelers seeking to experience the unique customs of Central Asia.

List of Places to Visit in Ahal Province

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Anau Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Turkmenistan with intricate Islamic architecture.

  • Ancient City of Turekina: A historical site located on the Silk Route, which dates back to the Parthian Empire.

  • Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque: A large and impressive mosque, built-in honor of Turkmenbashi, the first president of Turkmenistan.

  • Museum of Turkmen Carpet: A remarkable museum displaying the history, art, and culture of Turkmenistan’s famous carpet industry.

  • Seytjamal-ad-Din Mosque: A serene mosque located within the magnificent Kopetdag Mountains.

Natural Attractions of Ahal Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kow-Ata Underground Lake: A saltwater lake located inside a natural cave, renowned for its thermal waters.

  • Kopetdag Mountains: A hiker’s paradise, with rugged terrain and walking trails that lead to stunning views of the mountains.

  • Maryumdag Desert: One of the vastest deserts in Central Asia, is an excellent area for off-road driving, camping, and camel riding.

  • Gyoktepe Reservoir: A serene freshwater lake surrounded by the mountain range of Ahal Province. A great place for swimming and picnics.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ahal Province

  • Kopetdag Nature Reserve: A natural park that provides thrilling treks for hikers and mountain bikers. The route meanders through the Kopetdag Mountains and offers stunning views of the natural habitat of Turkmenistan.

  • Caves of Turekina: A hiking route that leads to ancient caves, believed to have been inhabited by humans during the Achaemenid era.

Best Things to Do in Ahal Province: Activities and Tours

  • Camping in the Maryumdag Desert: Overnight camping is an excellent way to experience the vast expanse of the desert and stargazing in the night sky.

  • Turkmen Carpet Weaving Classes: Learn the art of Turkmen carpet weaving, a tradition that has been preserved for over 2,000 years.

  • Horse Riding in Kopetdag Mountains: Take a guided tour on horseback and explore the mountain range of Ahal Province.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ahal Province

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Anau Mosque and Kopetdag Mountains
Day 2 Explore Ancient City of Turekina and Caves of Turekina
Day 3 Discover Maryumdag Desert and spend the night camping
Day 4 Visit the Kow-Ata Underground Lake and Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
Day 5 Trek in Kopetdag Nature Reserve and visit Gyoktepe Reservoir
Day 6 Learn the art of Turkmen Carpet Weaving and visit Seytjamal-ad-Din Mosque
Day 7 Horse Riding in Kopetdag Mountains and explore the city of Ashgabat

Food and Drink Scene of Ahal Province

Must-Try Dishes

  • Plov: A traditional Uzbek and Turkmen dish made of rice, meat and vegetables. Plov is considered the national food of Turkmenistan.

  • Kebab: A bite-sized meat dish, seasoned with spices and slow-roasted until it is juicy and tender.

  • Manty: A steamed dumpling filled with minced meat and onions, typically eaten as a snack or with soup.

Local Beverages

  • Chal: A traditional Turkmen drink made of sour milk or yogurt.

  • Shor: A flavorful and refreshing drink made of sugar, water, and lime juice.

Where to Stay in Ahal Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Yyldyz Hotel Ashgabat: A five-star hotel located in the city of Ashgabat.

  • Burna Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel located in the city of Ahal.

  • Gagarin Hostel: A youth-friendly hostel located in the city of Ashgabat.

  • Guesthouse of Seytjemaleddin Mosque: A cozy guesthouse located near Seytjemaleddin Mosque.

What to Buy in Ahal Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Turkmenistan Carpets: A colorful product with intricate designs that can add a touch of elegance to your home.

  • Jewelry: Silver earrings, necklaces with precious stones, and Turkmen wedding rings are an ideal souvenir to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Ahal Province

Turkmenistan has a unique and ancient culture that is influenced by neighboring countries such as Iran, Russia, and Afghanistan. The people of Ahal Province are known for their hospitality, and visitors are welcomed with open arms. Some customs include maintaining modesty in appearance, respecting elders, and sharing meals with others.

Best Time to Visit Ahal Province

The best time to visit Ahal Province is from April to June when the weather is pleasant, and the natural attractions are green and lush. During the summer months, the region can be hot and arid, with temperatures reaching over 40 degrees Celsius.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ahal Province

Do:

  • Dress conservatively when in public places.

  • Be respectful of the local culture and customs.

  • Try the local cuisine.

  • Follow environmental conservation rules.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water; only drink bottled water.

  • Disrespect religious sites or matters.

  • Leave litter in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ahal Province

Ahal Province is a relatively safe area to visit, with low crime rates. However, visitors should avoid displaying wealth and avoid wandering in isolated areas, particularly at night.

Health in Ahal Province

Tourists should ensure that they have taken all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Ahal Province. Visitors are also recommended to drink only bottled water and take precautions to avoid heat stroke and dehydration.

Getting to Ahal Province: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ahal Province

The nearest airport to Ahal province is Ashgabat International Airport, which has direct flights to several destinations across Central Asia, Europe, and Asia.

Bus Stations Near Ahal Province

The bus station in Ashgabat has multiple connections to neighboring cities and frequent services to the main tourist destinations within Ahal Province.

Other Options

There are several private taxis and rental cars available for hire in Ashgabat, which offer flexibility and convenience for exploring the province.

How to Get Around in Ahal Province

The best way to get around Ahal Province is through private taxis or car rentals. However, local buses and minibusses are a more affordable option.

Where to Go Next from Ahal Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Nisa: The ruins of an ancient Parthian city, located near Ashgabat.

  • Darvaza Gas Crater: Also known as the “Door to Hell,” the crater is a natural gas field that has been burning for over four decades.

  • Koyten National Reserve: A national park, renowned for its ecological diversity and pristine nature.

Conclusion

Ahal Province is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the vast and untamed beauty of Central Asia. With a rich history spanning centuries and natural wonders that blend seamlessly with modern infrastructure, Ahal Province offers travelers an extraordinary adventure. Be sure to plan your trip in advance, and follow our travel guide to make your stay unforgettable.



    Anau
    Ashgabat
    Karakum
    Nissa