Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, is a city known for its grandiose architecture and marble buildings. Nestled against the Kopet Dag mountains, it blends modernity and tradition. The city is characterized by its wide boulevards, green parks, and monumental structures, including the iconic Independence Monument and the Turkmenistan Tower. Ashgabat's sprawling bazaars, like the Tolkuchka Bazaar, offer a vibrant mix of local culture, crafts, and cuisine. The city also houses significant museums, showcasing Turkmen history and art. Ashgabat's unique, white-marble skyline, set in a desert landscape, creates a distinctive and surreal urban experience.
One of Central Asia's largest mosques, Turkmenbashi Ruhy stands as a testament to Ashgabat's architectural prowess. With its gleaming gold domes and intricate designs, the mosque exudes opulence. Its interior, adorned with hand-painted ceilings and vast chandeliers, further amplifies its grandeur. The mosque is not just an architectural marvel; it is also a place of tranquillity, offering a peaceful respite amidst Ashgabat's bustling vibe.
Delve deep into Turkmenistan's artistic heritage at the Turkmen Carpet Museum. Home to a vast collection of traditional Turkmen rugs, some dating back centuries, the museum narrates tales of craftsmanship and artistry. Each rug, with its intricate patterns and vibrant hues, tells a unique story. Guided tours offer insights into the symbolism, history, and the meticulous art of carpet weaving, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
Dominating Ashgabat's skyline, the Arch of Neutrality is a 95-meter-tall monument topped with a golden statue of the country's first president. As you ascend this iconic monument, panoramic views of the sprawling city await. With its modern architecture juxtaposed against mountain backdrops, the vista from the top is breathtaking, especially during sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.
Spread across vast expanses, Independence Park is Ashgabat's oasis of greenery and tranquillity. As you stroll through meticulously landscaped gardens, discover countless monuments, fountains, and sculptures that narrate stories of Turkmenistan's past. The park's centrepiece, the Independence Monument, a white-marble structure, is especially striking. Whether you're looking to delve into history, enjoy a leisurely walk, or simply relax, Independence Park offers it all.
A futuristic architectural marvel, the Wedding Palace is an unmissable sight in Ashgabat. With its eight-sided star shape topped with a giant golden globe, the palace is a perfect blend of modern design and traditional Turkmen motifs. While primarily a venue for wedding ceremonies, the building also houses several shops, cafes, and a photo studio. Visiting couples can even tie the knot and receive an official marriage certificate!
Home to a treasure trove of artifacts, the National Museum offers a journey through Turkmenistan's rich history. From ancient archaeological finds to exhibits on traditional Turkmen life, the museum's vast collection provides a comprehensive overview. Particularly striking is the large-scale diorama depicting the Battle of Geok Tepe. Guided tours enhance the experience, offering deeper insights and stories behind each exhibit.
Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
Heritage, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the heart of Central Asia on a 17-day journey spanning Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Explore majestic landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Silk Road cities with expert guidance, creating a rich cultural and historical experience across five remarkable nations. This tour operates with minimum 6 persons.
People & Culture, Off Grid, AONB
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
GROUP
17 days
Discover Turkmenistan's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes on a 6-day tour, from the modern marvels of Ashgabat to the ancient ruins of Merv and the traditional life in Bokurdak.
Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a nine-day exploration of Turkmenistan's wonders, from the historical depth of Kunya-Urgench and the fiery spectacle of the Darvaza Gas Crater to the modern marvels of Ashgabat and the ancient grandeur of Merv.
Heritage, Off Grid, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a captivating nine-day journey through Turkmenistan, exploring ancient ruins, desert wonders, and the marble splendour of Ashgabat. Experience cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural phenomena in this unforgettable adventure.
Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Embark on an eight-day odyssey through Turkmenistan, from Ashgabat's modern marvels to the time-honoured ruins of Merv and Nisa, culminating in the serene coastal vistas and vibrant bazaars of Turkmenbashi along the Caspian Sea.
Art & Architecture, Off Grid, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
Heritage, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the heart of Central Asia on a 17-day journey spanning Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Explore majestic landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Silk Road cities with expert guidance, creating a rich cultural and historical experience across five remarkable nations. This tour operates with minimum 6 persons.
People & Culture, Off Grid, AONB
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
GROUP
17 days
Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
Heritage, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover Turkmenistan's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes on a 6-day tour, from the modern marvels of Ashgabat to the ancient ruins of Merv and the traditional life in Bokurdak.
Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a nine-day exploration of Turkmenistan's wonders, from the historical depth of Kunya-Urgench and the fiery spectacle of the Darvaza Gas Crater to the modern marvels of Ashgabat and the ancient grandeur of Merv.
Heritage, Off Grid, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a captivating nine-day journey through Turkmenistan, exploring ancient ruins, desert wonders, and the marble splendour of Ashgabat. Experience cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural phenomena in this unforgettable adventure.
Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Embark on an eight-day odyssey through Turkmenistan, from Ashgabat's modern marvels to the time-honoured ruins of Merv and Nisa, culminating in the serene coastal vistas and vibrant bazaars of Turkmenbashi along the Caspian Sea.
Art & Architecture, Off Grid, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan
PRIVATE
Discover the heart of Central Asia on a 17-day journey spanning Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Explore majestic landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Silk Road cities with expert guidance, creating a rich cultural and historical experience across five remarkable nations.
This tour operates with minimum 6 persons.
People & Culture, Off Grid, AONB
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
GROUP
17 days
No records found
Featured
Discover sides of Asia you never knew existed, revealed by people who know every facet.
Featured
June 01 - 1, June 01, 2025
Featured
June 01 - 1, June 01, 2025
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said us recently.
"Every aspect of the trip, from guides to accommodation and the well-planned itinerary ... was seamlessly orchestrated. We will always recommend Asian Geographical Expeditions for anyone looking to explore Central Asia in unparalleled depth and comfort."