![\"Nisa](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Nisa-Fortress-3-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\nTurkmenistan, located in Central Asia, is one of the least-visited countries in the world. And perhaps it is precisely this anonymity that makes it a deeply authentic destination. Far from the most traveled routes, the country holds a little-known yet fascinating history, having been home to ancient civilizations.<\/p>\n
Traveling through Turkmenistan means discovering a place still largely unexplored and listening to the stories of empires and trade routes that continue to trace their paths across the land.<\/p>\n
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This will largely depend on the tour you choose and the duration of your visa. Inside Turkmenistan, distances are very long, and your travel plans will also depend on the places you want to see.<\/p>\n
You can use domestic flights or trains. I would highly recommend taking the train over flying, unless you want to save time, because it’s like traveling back in time and the landscapes are incredible.<\/p>\n
We decided to do the 3-day intensive itinerary, but other common itineraries include:<\/p>\n
The capital of Turkmenistan is Ashgabat, whose name means “City of Love.” What makes this city truly unique is its striking white color\u2014almost every building is covered in white marble, and even the cars are mostly white under a local law, giving the streets a surreal, futuristic feel. Ashgabat also holds a Guinness World Record for having the most white marble buildings in the world. Some of the main attractions in the city include:<\/p>\n
Other sites to visit outside Ashgabat:<\/p>\n
![\"Ashgabat](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Ashgabat-4-scaled.jpg\")
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Another option for a three-day tour is visiting Kunya-Urgench instead of Mary. This site was once the capital of the medieval Khorezmshah Empire, one of the largest Muslim empires. Upon arrival, visitors can explore monuments of the medieval city, such as:<\/p>\n
Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell,” is located in the Karakum Desert and is probably the country’s most iconic attraction. Darvaza is a massive, burning natural gas crater that has been alight for over 50 years.<\/p>\n
It was created in 1971 when Soviet geologists accidentally collapsed an underground gas cavern, and the fire has continued burning ever since. Over time, the flames have decreased, and some say it is no longer as impressive as it once was, but it is still worth visiting.<\/p>\n
To reach the flaming crater, a 4×4 vehicle is essential, along with a skilled driver who knows the route. At Darvaza, you can also sleep in a yurt, which I highly recommend for a more authentic, local experience. On the way, you will also see:<\/p>\n
![\"Darvaza\"](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Darvaza-3-scaled.jpg\")
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After returning to Ashgabat from Darvaza, we took the train to Mary, a city in southeastern Turkmenistan and the gateway to the ancient Silk Road. Just a short drive from Mary lies the ancient city of Merv, one of the most significant archaeological sites on the Silk Road and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.<\/p>\n
Merv was a hub of trade, culture, and Islamic learning, and at its peak, it was one of the largest cities in the world and one of the most important capitals of Islam, along with Baghdad, Cairo, and Damascus.<\/p>\n
Today, its ruins offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the past, with massive fortress walls, caravanserais, and historic mausoleums that feel like stepping back in time. The main attractions in Merv include:<\/p>\n
![\"Merv\"](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Merv-5-scaled.jpg\")
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Visiting Turkmenistan as a tourist is possible, although it is not always the easiest or most affordable destination due to complex procedures and the country’s closed nature toward the outside world.<\/p>\n
At present, the only way to visit Turkmenistan is to book a tour with a registered travel agency, which issues the required invitation letter and submits the visa application on your behalf. Independent travel is not permitted, and visitors must be accompanied by a licensed tour guide at all times.<\/p>\n
Upon arrival, you should submit the documents issued by your travel agency along with your passport and then complete the PCR test. Turkmenistan takes COVID-19 regulations seriously and continues to require testing for travelers arriving from abroad.<\/p>\n
The visa fee is approximately $80 USD, the migration tax is $14 USD, and the PCR test costs $60 USD. Everything must be paid in cash US dollars, using new bills in perfect condition.<\/p>\n
![\"Seyit](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Seyit-Jamal-ad-Din-Mosque-2-scaled.jpg\")
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Since much of the country is covered by desert, temperatures can be extreme, with very hot days and cold nights depending on the season. The best time to visit Turkmenistan is during spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November), when temperatures are milder and more comfortable for traveling and sightseeing.<\/p>\n
When traveling to Turkmenistan, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or religious and historical sites. As Islam is the predominant religion, clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appreciated and helps you blend in more comfortably with local customs. It is also recommended to carry a scarf, particularly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.<\/p>\n
![\"Merv\"](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Merv-4-scaled.jpg\")
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The official currency of the country is the Turkmenistan manat (TMT). While 1 USD is roughly equivalent to 3.5 TMT, actual cash exchange rates may vary in practice. Cash is the primary method of payment nationwide, and foreign cards are rarely accepted and may not work at ATMs, so it’s important to carry enough cash for daily expenses.<\/p>\n
US dollars are preferred over euros, and your tour guide will assist you with currency exchange. Bills must be new and in perfect condition to be accepted.<\/p>\n
![\"Gypjak](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Gypjak-Asghabat-3-scaled.jpg\")
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The main language is Turkmen, but because of its history and its time as part of the Soviet Union, many people speak Russian. Few people speak English, though it is becoming more popular among young people. The majority of the population is Turkmen, but there are also minorities such as Uzbeks and Russians living in the country.<\/p>\n
![\"Nisa](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Nisa-Fortress-2-scaled.jpg\")
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In Turkmenistan, you will find a mix of traditional Central Asia dishes, often lamb or beef-based. Some of the traditional dishes include:<\/p>\n
![\"Ertugrul](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Ertugrul-Gazi-Mosque-Asghabat-1-scaled.jpg\")
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Turkmenistan remains a very closed and highly controlled country. During your trip, you are unlikely to have regular internet access. You can get a local SIM card to have a local number and contact your guide, but internet access will probably be limited.<\/p>\n
The internet is heavily censored, and even if you manage to connect, you will likely need a VPN, which only works in a few hotels. In my experience, I was unable to access the internet at all during the entire trip, so it’s best to inform your family and friends in advance about limited communication.<\/p>\n
![\"Darvaza\"](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Darvaza-1-scaled.jpg\")
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Turkmenistan is a highly monitored country, and visitors are expected to follow local laws and respect customs. Unlike in other Central Asian countries, you will not have as much freedom or independence while touring, but this does not mean you won’t experience the country’s culture.<\/p>\n
With your local guide’s guidance, you can respectfully explore the country and gain meaningful insights into its history, culture, and daily life. Some rules and best practices to keep in mind:<\/p>\n
![\"Gypjak](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Gypjak-Asghabat-4-scaled.jpg\")
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You can enter Turkmenistan by land through the borders with Iran, Afghanistan, or Uzbekistan. However, the most convenient way is to fly to Ashgabat International Airport. It is important to confirm your port of entry, as it must be specified on your visa.<\/p>\n
There are flights to Ashgabat from Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, but the most convenient and cost-effective option is to fly from Istanbul with Turkish Airlines.<\/p>\n
![\"Merv\"](\"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Merv-3-scaled.jpg\")
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I hope this Turkmenistan guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful country. For further trip planning, please visit our Travel Resources<\/a> page for our go-to resources to help you plan your next adventure!<\/p>\n You can also explore all our girls’ getaway guides<\/a> and bachelorette party guides.<\/a><\/p>\n We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Turkmenistan! If you have questions about Turkmenistan or tips to share with our readers, please leave these in the comments below.<\/b><\/i><\/p>\n Want to share your travel tips by writing for We Are Travel Girls? Visit our<\/i><\/b> Contribute Page<\/i><\/b><\/a> to submit your article.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n
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