Türkmenabat Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and what to do in Türkmenabat. Explore natural and cultural attractions, and learn about local customs and traditions.


Introduction to Türkmenabat

Welcome to Türkmenabat, a city in Lebap Province, Turkmenistan. Located in Central Asia, Türkmenabat is known for its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The city has a lot to offer, from historical landmarks and museums to scenic outdoor trails and exciting activities.

List of Places to Visit in Türkmenabat

Are you planning a trip to Türkmenabat and wondering what places to explore? Check out our list of must-visit landmarks, natural attractions, and museums:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Türkmenabat is home to several historical landmarks and museums that showcase the city’s unique cultural heritage. Here are some of the top attractions worth exploring:

  • Abiverd Architectural Complex: This ancient city dates back to the pre-Islamic era and is home to several historical monuments, including the ancient mosque, mausoleum, fortress, and bathhouse.

  • Regional Museum of Local Lore: Explore the cultural and historical heritage of Türkmenabat at this museum, which features exhibits on traditional clothing, musical instruments, and artifacts dating back to the early Turkmen era.

  • Atamurat Kurbansoltan Mosque: This famous mosque is located in the heart of Türkmenabat and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate mosaic designs.

Natural Attractions of Türkmenabat: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Türkmenabat is surrounded by natural beauty, from rolling hills and mountains to lakes and rivers. The city boasts several outdoor attractions that offer breathtaking views and exciting activities, including:

  • Galkynysh Gas Crater: Also known as the “Door to Hell,” this natural gas crater is located in the nearby Karakum Desert and is one of Turkmenistan’s most famous attractions.

  • Kugitang Mountains: Explore the Kugitang Mountains, which offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

  • Amu Darya River: This river runs through the city and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Türkmenabat

If you’re looking for some exciting hiking or biking routes to explore, check out some of the following trails:

  • Gaptirgen Mountains: This mountain range is one of the best destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, offering challenging trails and stunning views.

  • Kokdumalak Mountain: This scenic mountain offers a less challenging hiking route, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Koytendag Mountains: Explore the biodiversity of Turkmenistan at Koytendag Nature Reserve, which offers several trails for hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Türkmenabat: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for some fun activities to enjoy in Türkmenabat, here are some top recommendations:

  • Traditional Carpet Weaving Workshop: Take a tour of a traditional carpet workshop and learn about the ancient art of Turkmen carpet weaving.

  • Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of Turkmenistan’s landscape on horseback, with several stables and tour operators offering horseback riding tours.

  • City Tours: Explore the city of Türkmenabat on a guided tour, which includes visits to museums, historical landmarks, and other cultural sites.

Week-Long Itinerary for Türkmenabat

Are you planning to spend a week in Türkmenabat but not sure where to start? Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival and check-in at hotel
Day 2 City tour of Türkmenabat
Day 3 Visit Abiverd Architectural Complex and Regional Museum of Local Lore
Day 4 Hiking/biking at Gaptirgen Mountains
Day 5 Visit Kugitang Mountains and Amu Darya River
Day 6 Horseback riding and traditional carpet weaving workshop
Day 7 Departure from Türkmenabat

Food and Drink Scene of Türkmenabat

Turkmenistan is known for its unique cuisine, and Türkmenabat is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Palaw: This traditional dish is a mix of rice, carrots, meat, and spices and is typically served at special occasions and gatherings.

  • Shashlyk: Also known as meat skewers, shashlyk is a popular street food in Türkmenabat and is made with marinated meat cooked over charcoal.

  • Lagman Soup: This hearty soup is a mix of noodles, vegetables, and meat and is served hot.

Local Beverages

  • Chal: This fermented drink is made from camel’s milk and is a popular drink in Turkmenistan.

  • Shorba: Also known as sour yogurt drink, shorba is a refreshing drink made from yogurt, water, and salt.

  • Black Tea: Tea is a staple drink in Türkmenabat and is served with sugar and lemon.

Where to Stay in Türkmenabat: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Türkmenabat has several accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels:

  • Merdan Hotel: This is a popular hotel in Türkmenabat, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.

  • Nusay Hotel: Located in the city center, this hotel is known for its excellent service and comfortable rooms.

  • Guesthouses: Several guesthouses are available throughout the city, offering affordable accommodation and a chance to experience local hospitality.

What to Buy in Türkmenabat: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for some unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home, here are some recommendations:

  • Turkmenistan Carpet: Turkmenistan is famous for its carpet weaving tradition, and Türkmenabat is a great place to buy traditional carpets and rugs.

  • Turkmen Jewelry: Turkmenistan is known for its unique jewelry, made from silver or gold and adorned with precious stones.

  • Handwoven Bags: Handwoven bags featuring traditional Turkmen designs make for great souvenirs and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Türkmenabat

Turkmenistan has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to understand and respect local customs and traditions. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

  • Clothing: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites.

  • Gift Giving: Gift giving is an important part of Turkmen culture, and it’s customary to bring a small gift when visiting someone’s home.

  • Greeting: Use a formal greeting when meeting someone for the first time, such as “Salam” (hello) or “Sag bolun” (be healthy).

Best Time to Visit Türkmenabat

The best time to visit Türkmenabat is from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Türkmenabat

When traveling to Türkmenabat, there are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect Local Culture: Be respectful of local traditions and customs.

  • Carry Cash: Many shops and restaurants in Türkmenabat don’t accept credit cards, so be sure to carry enough cash.

  • Learn some Local Phrases: Learning some key phrases in Turkmen language can go a long way in communicating with locals.

Don’t:

  • Take Photos of Military Structures: It is strictly prohibited to take photos of military structures and installations, so be mindful of your surroundings.

  • Drink Tap Water: It’s recommended to avoid drinking tap water in Türkmenabat, so be sure to buy bottled water.

Safety and Health

Turkmenistan is known for its high level of safety, with low crime rates and a peaceful society. However, it’s important to keep some safety tips in mind:

Safety in Türkmenabat

  • Avoid Solo Travel at Night: It’s best to avoid solo travel at night and stick to well-lit areas.

  • Be Vigilant in Crowded Areas: Keep your valuables safe when visiting crowded areas, as pickpocketing may occur.

  • Avoid Demonstrations: It’s best to avoid any demonstrations or protests, which may turn violent.

Health in Türkmenabat

  • Vaccinations: It’s recommended to have up-to-date vaccinations before traveling to Turkmenistan.

  • Mosquitoes: Be sure to bring mosquito repellent, as some parts of Türkmenabat are prone to mosquitoes.

  • Sun Exposure: Turkmenistan has a hot climate, so be sure to use sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Getting to Türkmenabat: Transportation Options and Logistics

Türkmenabat is located in Lebap Province, Turkmenistan, and can be reached by several transportation options:

Airports Near Türkmenabat

Turkmenabat International Airport is located in the city center and serves both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Türkmenabat

The city has several bus stations, with regular buses connecting Türkmenabat to other cities in Turkmenistan.

Other Options

Several tour operators offer overland tours, connecting Türkmenabat to other Central Asian countries, such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan.

How to Get Around in Türkmenabat

Türkmenabat is a small city that can be easily explored on foot. However, if you’d like to get around faster, you can use the following transportation options:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Türkmenabat and are a convenient way to travel around the city.

  • Busses: Buses run throughout the city and are a budget-friendly way to get around.

  • Car Rentals: Car rentals are also available in Türkmenabat, but it’s recommended to hire a driver who knows the local roads.

Where to Go Next from Türkmenabat: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Turkmenistan has a lot to offer, from ancient ruins and historical landmarks to natural attractions and outdoor adventures. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can explore:

  • Ancient City of Merv: This ancient city is located near Türkmenabat and is known for its rich history and impressive architecture.

  • Darvaza Gas Crater: Also known as the “Door to Hell,” this natural gas crater is a popular destination in Turkmenistan.

  • Ashgabat City: The capital of Turkmenistan, this city is known for its impressive architecture and rich history.

Conclusion

Türkmenabat is a hidden gem in Turkmenistan, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or just looking to experience local culture, Türkmenabat has something to offer for everyone. Start planning your trip today and experience the wonders of this beautiful city!

Türkmenabat city hall Türkmenabat city hall