Travel - Turkmenistan- Best spots to visit & other details

 

Turkmenistan, a Central Asian country, offers unique cultural and historical attractions. Ashgabat, the capital, showcases modern architecture and the extravagant Independence Monument. Visit the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or the Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the "Door to Hell." Explore the Kunya-Urgench ruins and the Yangykala Canyon for stunning landscapes. Keep in mind that Turkmenistan has specific travel regulations, so it's advisable to check entry requirements before planning your visit.

Turkmenistan has diverse attractions to explore. Some notable places include:

1. **Ashgabat:** The capital boasts impressive modern architecture, including the Independence Monument and the white-marble city center.

2. **Merv:** A UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved ancient structures, showcasing the historical Silk Road.

3. **Darvaza Gas Crater:** Also known as the "Door to Hell," it's a natural gas crater burning since 1971, creating a surreal and mesmerizing sight.

4. **Kunya-Urgench:** An ancient city with architectural remnants, such as the Mausoleum of Najm ad-Din al-Kubra and the Kutlug Timur Minaret.

5. **Yangykala Canyon:** A stunning canyon with colorful rock formations, offering breathtaking views of Turkmenistan's natural beauty.

6. **Dehistan:** Explore the medieval ruins and fortresses, providing insights into the region's historical significance.

7. **Nisa:** An ancient Parthian city with archaeological remains, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

When visiting Turkmenistan, be mindful of travel regulations and cultural norms, and consider guided tours to fully appreciate the country's rich history and landscapes.

Best seasons to visit 

The best time to visit Turkmenistan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is more moderate. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the desert areas.

Best cuisines 

As for cuisine, Turkmenistan offers a variety of dishes influenced by Central Asian, Persian, and Turkic flavors. Some notable dishes include:

1. **Plov:** A traditional rice dish often cooked with meat, carrots, and onions.

   

2. **Manti:** Dumplings filled with minced meat, onions, and spices, typically steamed or boiled.

3. **Shashlik:** Grilled meat skewers, usually served with bread and vegetables.

4. **Yarma:** Cracked wheat cooked with meat or vegetables, creating a hearty porridge.

5. **Chorba:** A flavorful soup with meat, vegetables, and spices.

6. **Samsa:** Pastries filled with meat, onions, and various seasonings, often baked or fried.

7. **Beshbarmak:** A traditional dish consisting of boiled meat, usually lamb or beef, served with pasta and onions.

Don't miss the opportunity to try Turkmen tea, a significant part of the local culture, and indulge in sweets like halva or chak-chak for dessert. Exploring local markets is a great way to experience the diverse culinary offerings in Turkmenistan.

Airlines to visit Turkmenistan 

Several international airlines operate flights to Turkmenistan, primarily to the capital city, Ashgabat. Some of the airlines that serve Turkmenistan include:

1. **Turkmenistan Airlines:** The national carrier operates flights to and from Ashgabat, connecting the country with various international destinations.

2. **Lufthansa:** This German airline offers flights to Ashgabat, providing connections to Europe and beyond.

3. **Turkish Airlines:** Turkey's national carrier provides flights to Ashgabat, offering convenient connections through Istanbul.

4. **Flydubai:** This low-cost airline connects Ashgabat with Dubai, providing access to its extensive network.

5. **S7 Airlines:** A Russian airline that operates flights to Ashgabat, connecting Turkmenistan with Russian cities and beyond.

Before planning your trip, it's advisable to check the current status of flights, as schedules may vary, and new routes may be introduced over time. Additionally, be aware of any travel restrictions or entry requirements for Turkmenistan.