Things To Do
in Ashgabat
Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan, is known for its striking white marble buildings and grand monuments. This sprawling city features a mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern developments, creating a unique skyline. The city is often referred to as the 'City of White Marble' due to its extensive use of this material in construction.
Ashgabat is also rich in culture and history, offering visitors a glimpse into Turkmen traditions and heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Turkmenistan Museum of History to learn about the country's heritage.
Head to the impressive Neutrality Monument and take a stroll through the surrounding park.
Enjoy a traditional Turkmen dinner at a local restaurant while watching a cultural performance.
Visit the beautiful Gypjak Mosque, the largest in Turkmenistan, located just outside the city.
Explore the Altyn Asyr Bazaar, one of the largest markets in the region, for local crafts and foods.
Relax at a local café and enjoy a cup of traditional Turkmen tea while people-watching.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $5 |
| 🍉Watermelon (1 kg) | $1 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread | $0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique architectural beauty with white marble buildings
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Friendly and hospitable locals
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Language barriers can pose challenges
- Strict regulations and laws may restrict free movement
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Rahmet" - Thank you
- "Yardam etseniz" - Please help
- "Nähili?" - How are you?
- "Hawa" - Yes
Places to Visit in Ashgabat
Visit one of these nice places.
A towering structure that symbolizes the country's neutrality, providing a stunning backdrop for photos.
An architectural marvel with striking minarets and intricate designs, perfect for capturing beautiful images.
The numerous parks in Ashgabat offer lush greenery and unique sculptures, ideal for relaxation and photography.
Food in Ashgabat
Ashgabat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature dish of rice, meat, and vegetables, often seasoned with spices and cooked in a large pot.
Must-Try!
Small dumplings filled with meat, usually served in a flavorful broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Visitors are advised to dress modestly, especially in religious sites, to show respect for local customs.
A firm handshake is customary, and it’s polite to greet the eldest person first in a group.
Turkmen people are known for their hospitality; it is common to be offered tea or food, and it's polite to accept.
Safety
Tipping in Ashgabat
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes, generally around 10% of the total bill.
Cash is preferred, and ATMs are available in major areas, but ensure you have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures are mild and flowers bloom, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect hot temperatures, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), so plan indoor activities during peak heat hours.
Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage; ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor events.
Mild winters with occasional snowfall; it's a quieter time for tourists, providing a unique perspective of the city.
Ashgabat at Night
Hiking in Ashgabat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging trail that offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys, ideal for experienced hikers.
A scenic hiking area with unique rock formations and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for photography.
Airports
How to reach Ashgabat by plane.
The main international gateway to Turkmenistan, offering flights to various destinations across the globe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group, making up the majority of the population and traditionally pastoralists.
A significant minority in Turkmenistan, particularly in urban areas, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Turkmenistan, with local leagues and a national team that competes internationally.
Traditional wrestling is a significant sport, often showcased during national celebrations and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashgabat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While mainly a meat-loving culture, some restaurants do offer vegetarian dishes, primarily based on seasonal vegetables.