Ashgabat

Turkmenistan, Asia

Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, is a dazzling city of white marble and unique architecture, including the impressive Turkmenbashi Palace and the Beyuk Mosque. Visitors are captivated by the vast parks, the grand Neutrality Monument, and the fascinating Museum of National History. The city also boasts a vibrant culture with local crafts and traditional cuisine, making it an appealing destination for those looking to experience something distinct and extraordinary.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Ashgabat

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Ashgabat

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Independence Monument

A towering symbol of Turkmen independence and pride.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Turkmenistan Museum of Fine Arts

Discover stunning Turkmen art and cultural exhibits.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander through the Neutrality Monument

An iconic symbol showcasing Turkmen neutrality.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the State Museum of History

Learn about Turkmenistan's rich history and culture.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Tolkuchka Bazaar

Experience local culture at this bustling market.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Marvel at the Akhal-Teke Horse Stables

See the beautiful Akhal-Teke horses up close.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll in the Gypjak Mosque

Visit one of the largest mosques in Central Asia.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Photograph the Ashgabat White Marble Buildings

Capture stunning architecture across the city.

No booking required
9

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Palace of Happiness

Check out this extravagant government building.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in the Ashgabat parks

Enjoy green spaces and local flora in the city.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a cultural performance at the National Music and Drama Theatre

Experience Turkmen culture through music and dance.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-14 (#189 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Turkmenistan New Manat

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Turkmen

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Rice Pilaf

Savory rice dish with meat and spices. (National dish)

Dograma

Bread salad with meat and vegetables.

Ichlekli

Stuffed pastry with meat and spices inside.

Shashlyk

Grilled skewered meat, often lamb or beef.

Manty

Dumplings filled with meat or pumpkin.

Phrases to learn

English

Turkmen

Hello

Salam

(Sah-lahm)

Yes/No

Hawa / Yok

(Ha-wa / Yok)

Thank you

Sagbol

(Sahg-bowl)

Excuse me

Bagyşlaň

(Bah-gush-lahn)

How much?

Näçe?

(Neh-cheh)