Turkmenistan is often considered one of the most closed and mysterious countries in Central Asia. Dominated by the vast Karakum Desert, it boasts some of the world’s largest natural gas reserves. Its unique cultural heritage and the ultra-modern capital city of Ashgabat intrigue travelers from around the globe.
In this post, we delve into Turkmenistan’s historical background, key tourist attractions, and practical travel tips.
History of Turkmenistan
From Antiquity to the Middle Ages
The region that is now Turkmenistan has, since ancient times, hosted a mix of oasis cities and nomadic societies. In the 6th century BC, it formed part of the Achaemenid Persian Empire. Subsequently, it experienced rule under Alexander the Great, the Parthian Empire, and the Sasanian Empire, among others.
During the Middle Ages, the expansion of Islam spurred the growth of scholarship, trade, and urban culture. A prime example is the ancient city of Merv, once a pivotal hub along the Silk Road. There, Persian, Turkic, and Arab influences intermingled, giving rise to a thriving civilization.
Formation of the Turkmen People and the Mongol Invasion
As the name “Turkmenistan” implies, its people are of Turkic origin. They have historically maintained a nomadic culture across broad plains and deserts, with numerous tribes preserving their own identities.
Between the 12th and 13th centuries, Genghis Khan’s Mongol Empire conquered Central Asia, bringing widespread destruction and upheaval. Afterward, powers such as the Timurid Empire rose and fell, while Turkmen communities continued to adapt and uphold their local ways of life in the harsh environment.
The Russian Empire and the Soviet Era
In the late 19th century, most of Central Asia, including the Turkmen region, fell under Russian imperial domination—known as Russian Turkestan. Following the Russian Revolution of 1917, the Soviet Union subdivided Central Asia into separate republics, implementing state-driven collectivization and industrialization.
By 1936, the Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic was officially established, remaining a republic within the Soviet Union until its collapse in 1991. During this time, large-scale developments in natural gas and cotton production took place, while traditional nomadic customs were significantly curtailed.
Post-Independence Turkmenistan
When the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991, Turkmenistan emerged as an independent nation. Its first president, Saparmurat Niyazov (also called “Turkmenbashi”), became notorious for an extreme cult of personality. Under his successor, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, the country has maintained strict governmental control, limiting foreign exchanges and preserving a largely closed-off status.
Nevertheless, buoyed by robust natural gas exports, Turkmenistan has gradually begun improving infrastructure and taking modest steps to boost tourism.
Turkmenistan’s Travel Highlights
Ashgabat
The country’s capital and largest city, Ashgabat, is filled with white marble buildings—recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s “whitest city.” Visitors will find monumental architecture such as Independence Monuments, Hero Monuments, and some of the region’s biggest mosques. While it feels modern and meticulously organized, its restricted and carefully managed environment creates a uniquely peculiar ambiance.
Karakum Desert & the Darvaza Crater
Darvaza Crater
Much of Turkmenistan lies within the Karakum Desert. Near the desert’s heart is the Darvaza Gas Crater, often dubbed the “Door to Hell.” Formed in 1971 when drilling operations caused a collapse, this crater has continuously burned natural gas for decades. Watching the fiery pit glow in the night is a breathtaking spectacle.
Ancient Merv
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient city of Merv was once a vital Silk Road crossroads. At times described as one of the world’s most populous cities, Merv harbors relics of its splendid Persian-Islamic heritage—now largely in ruins. Remnants of monasteries, palaces, tombs, and city walls reveal glimpses of its once-glorious past.
Nisa
Located about 18 km west of Ashgabat, Nisa was once a Parthian capital in antiquity. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, it still retains Parthian-era fortifications and architectural remains.
Kunya-Urgench
Situated in northwestern Turkmenistan, Kunya-Urgench served as a central city of the Khwarazm kingdom. Surviving the Mongol invasions and Timurid rule, this historical site features notable Islamic monuments reflecting both Persian and Islamic influences—such as the Kutlug Timur Minaret, the Turabeg Khanum Mausoleum, and the Fakhr al-Din Razi Mausoleum.
Travel Tips
- Visa and Entry Procedures
- Turkmenistan is known for having one of the most restrictive visa systems globally. Tourists typically must arrange a guided tour through a government-approved agency.
- Independent travel is rarely permitted, and you must secure an official Letter of Invitation (LOI) before applying for a visa. Make sure to verify all procedures beforehand.
- Climate and Attire
- Turkmenistan experiences a dry, continental climate, with intensely hot summers and significant temperature drops at night in desert regions.
- Pack clothes suitable for extreme heat by day and potentially cooler temperatures after sunset.
- Culture and Etiquette
- While most Turkmen identify as Muslim, the country’s Soviet past has diluted the public display of religious practice. Still, dress respectfully at mosques and seek permission before photographing religious sites.
- Photography restrictions can be strict—avoid taking photos of government buildings, military sites, or public areas without approval. Always follow your local guide’s instructions.
- Safety and Other Considerations
- Although public security is relatively stable, the country’s stringent regulations can be challenging for foreign visitors.
- The local currency is the Turkmenistan manat (TMT). Exchanging US dollars or euros is common. Credit card acceptance is limited, so bringing enough cash is advisable.
- Internet access is restricted, and mobile roaming can be unreliable. Do thorough research on connectivity options before you go.
Conclusion
Turkmenistan stands out among Central Asian nations for its tightly controlled environment and the preservation of its distinct cultural identity. From Ashgabat’s marble-clad avenues to the ever-burning Darvaza crater in the desert, and from ancient Silk Road cities like Merv and Nisa to Kunya-Urgench—remnants of Persian, Islamic, and Soviet influences all echo through the land.
Despite the complex visa process and mandatory guided tours, the country’s otherworldly cityscapes, monumental architecture, and vast desert landscapes offer an unforgettable experience. For adventurers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations or unique cultural encounters, Turkmenistan truly is a desert kingdom worth exploring.