5 Days Historical And Modern Blend Of Turkmenistan
About this tour
Turkmenistan boasts a rich history, having been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries. Ancient cities like Merv, Nisa, and Kunya-Urgench stand as testaments to past empires and cultures. The phrase implies that this history is not just confined to books but is a tangible presence, woven into the fabric of the land.
The Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Gates of Hell," is a unique phenomenon resulting from a Soviet-era gas drilling accident. It's a surreal and otherworldly sight, highlighting the impact of human activity on the landscape.
Ashgabat, the capital, is a testament to Turkmenistan's modern vision. Gleaming white marble buildings, wide avenues, and impressive monuments define its cityscape. The city holds Guinness World Records for the highest density of marble buildings.Merv was renowned for its libraries, observatories, and scholars, attracting intellectuals from across the known world.
The Gulistan bazaar, also known as the Russian Bazaar, is one of the largest and oldest markets in the country, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
You can have an unforgettable experience in Turkmenistan, where the echoes of history resonate with the dynamism of modern life.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: turkmenabat to mary
Guide will meet you at the Turkmen-Uzbek border "Farap". Drive to hotel in Mary. Then you will have a city tour. You will discover bustling bazaars and local life of the city. Mary History museum provides a deeper understanding of the region's history, showcasing archaeological finds, ethnographic displays, and artifacts that illustrate Turkmenistan's cultural heritage. You can expect to see collections of Turkmen carpets, traditional clothing, jewelry, and other historical items. Overnight at hotel
Day 2: Mary, Turkmenistan to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
In the morning enjoy your breakfast. Drive to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Merv. This Silk Road city was a major center of trade and crafts. Discover the Historical and Cultural Park of "Ancient Merv," once a key capital of the Islamic world alongside Baghdad, Cairo, and Damascus. See the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Large and Small Kyz Kala, Erk Kala, Gyaur Kala, the Mausoleum Complex of the Askhabs, and the Hoja Yusuf Hamadani complex. Afternoon drive to Ashgabat. En route you will visit the ruins of the 15th-century Seyitjemalleddin Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture built in 1456. Continue to Abiverd, an ancient city between Ashgabat and Mary. Explore the remnants of this once-thriving settlement, including the portal of a grand mosque and the remains of wells and reservoirs, evidence of advanced irrigation. Discover the artifacts unearthed at Abiverd, including coins, 9th-12th century ceramics, and metal handicrafts like jewelry and buckles, showcasing a rich civilization. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to Darvaza Gas Crater - "Door to Hell", Derweze, Turkmenistan
Breakfast at hotel. Drive to UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nisa which was the capital of Parthian Empire. Explore the State museum of State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan. Have a trip to newly opened Magtymguly Pyragy Cultural Park. Drive to visit Horse Farm to see the national proud of Turkmen people - Akhal-teke horses, the nicest horses in the world. Turkmens started breeding Akhal-teke horses 5000 years ago. According to the beliefs, every sick person who touches an Akhal-teke horse will get well soon. Drive to visit Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque. Afternoon drive to Darvaza Gas Crater, the "Door to Hell," a massive burning gas crater in the Karakum Desert. En route, stopping at unique mud and water craters near Darvaza. This astounding gas crater has been burning since 1971. Walk around this unique spectacle and camp nearby for an unforgettable nighttime experience. Overnight at yurt.
Day 4: Darvaza Gas Crater - "Door to Hell", Derweze, Turkmenistan to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Enjoy your picnic-style breakfast at Darvaza. Drive back to Ashgabat. Check in at hotel. Explore the bustling Gulistan bazaar, known as "Russian bazaar". Afternoon you will have city tour including, Wedding Palace, "Yildiz" hotel, the Arch of Neutrality, the monument and park of Independence, Alem Ferris Wheel, Constitution monument, turkish-inspired mosque Ertogrul Gazi. Back to hotel to have rest.
Day 5: as to Ashgabat International Airport, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Have enjoyable breakfast at hotel. Today is the end of tour. Transfer to the Ashgabat International Airport.
What's included
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
turkmenabat to mary