By far one of the most unexplored and mysterious countries of Central Asia, Turkmenistan offers an exotic holiday destination and we have now compiled a list of the best places to visit in Turkmenistan before you die. This is a great land of tradition, natural beauty and great spirituality.
Turkmenistan got its fame due to the peculiar dictatorship of its former president, who ruled the country until he passed on 2006. What was so strange about this dictatorship is that is covered this country with many golden statues built in his honor and other grandiose monuments that celebrated his achievements. These statues and monuments are actually well built and should make for great backgrounds as you take your vacation photographs.
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The ancient towns of Konye-Urgench and Merv inspire images of caravans moving slowly on the long Silk Road. There is also the haunting natural beauty of Karakum desert, along with several other natural phenomena that are both less anticipated, but equally mesmerizing sights. The complete Turkmenistan experience is all about socializing with the fascinating and warm Turkmen, who are very hospitable.
If you want to check out the real Gateway to Hell, then you must come to Turkmenistan. This is a huge burning crater, found in the middle of Karakum desert. It was the outcome of a miscalculation in 1971 by some Soviet scientists. Once their boring gear drilled into a submerged cavern, it formed a deep crater. The scientists then decided to set the crater alight as they thought the gas was going to quickly burn out, but till today the fire is still raging on.
Turkmenistan is now growing in an important tourist site. It has some famous archeological sites and unique architecture. You should also look at the surreal places in China to see before you die after your Turkmenistan trip. Let us now look at the best places to visit in Turkmenistan before you die.
8. Ahal Province
This particular province is popular for its two main destinations including Saraghs and Annau. The Annau site is an archeological site where excavations at the site started in 1904. Skeletons of kids, geometrical decorations and camel remains were discovered during these excavations. It is thought that this is the first place where camels were domesticated.
7. Ashgabat City
This is the biggest city in Turkmenistan that also serves as the nation’s capital. It houses the largest mosque in Central Asia called the Kipchak mosque. This mosque recently generated lots of controversies as it uses scriptures from the Ruhnama and Holy Quran. The Ruhnama was written by the previous Turkmenistan president and thus many Muslims consider that it should not be thought to be equal to the Quran.
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6. Dekhistan
This town is located within the scenic Misrian Valley and is known for having a very unique terrain. The main Dekhistan attractions include its attractive towers that depict ancient settlements and monuments that were constructed between the 10th and 12th centuries. In addition, it also houses an ancient mosque that signifies the early Islamic time.
5. Abiword
Abiword is a medieval town located in Ahal province in South Turkmenistan. It is near the border of Iran and it has some exceptional attractions. For instance, the town has ruins of a prehistoric mosque and a fortress.
4. Nissa
Nissa was a very important town of the vast Parthian Empire. However, this town was destroyed completely by a powerful earthquake that happened during the first ten years BC. Today, the well-preserved ruins of the magnificent fortress in Nissa are recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage location.
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3. Merv
Merv is among the most popular Oasis cities on the elongated Silk Road. It was actually one of the biggest cities in the whole world during the early 12th century. Many experts believe that this is the birthplace of Hindu religion, specifically Mount Meru. This location is where Hinduism asserts that is the central point of the globe.
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2. Konye Urgench
This is a town located in the northeast part of Turkmenistan that was burnt to the ground by the world renowned conqueror called Genghis Khan. This represented one of the goriest massacres ever in history. The Soltan Tekes Mausoleum and Gutluk Temir Minaret still stand.
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And, the best place to visit in Turkmenistan before you die is: Dashoguz
Another popular destination in North Turkmenistan, Dashoguz is a vibrant hub for travelers seeking an adventurous vacation. The small town gained the attention of the whole world when a sizeable meteorite fell here. Since then it has seen increased visitors as it is also the gateway to Konye Urgench. We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about the best places to visit in Turkmenistan before you die.
