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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

11 Best Things to Do in Ashgabat

1. Visit the Independence Monument

A towering symbol of Turkmen independence and pride.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

2. Explore the Turkmenistan Museum of Fine Arts

Discover stunning Turkmen art and cultural exhibits.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Wander through the Neutrality Monument

An iconic symbol showcasing Turkmen neutrality.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Visit the State Museum of History

Learn about Turkmenistan's rich history and culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Explore the Tolkuchka Bazaar

Experience local culture at this bustling market.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Marvel at the Akhal-Teke Horse Stables

See the beautiful Akhal-Teke horses up close.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Stroll in the Gypjak Mosque

Visit one of the largest mosques in Central Asia.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Photograph the Ashgabat White Marble Buildings

Capture stunning architecture across the city.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Visit the Palace of Happiness

Check out this extravagant government building.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

10. Relax in the Ashgabat parks

Enjoy green spaces and local flora in the city.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

11. Attend a cultural performance at the National Music and Drama Theatre

Experience Turkmen culture through music and dance.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

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)