Destinations
Travel to Turkmenistan – heart of the Great Silk Road
Turkmenistan, historically positioned as a pivotal hub along the Great Silk Road, presents a unique confluence of diverse natural landscapes, a favourable climate, significant national values, distinctive traditions, and a rich collection of historical and architectural monuments. The country’s open and hospitable populace contributes to its reputation as an ideal destination for tourists and individuals driven by discovery and novel experiences.
Contemporary Turkmenistan attracts visitors with its well-developed urban infrastructure, notably in its capital city, Ashgabat, which has been recognized by the Guinness World Records.
History:
Turkmenistan ranks among the world’s oldest nations, its territory having played a crucial role as a key segment of the Great Silk Road, facilitating connections between Western and Eastern cultures for centuries. This land served as a cradle for ancient Eastern civilizations, making substantial contributions to global cultural development and preserving numerous unsolved mysteries. Travellers to Turkmenistan can explore the fabled land of Margiana (Ancient Merv or Margush), identified as the fifth major center of world civilization, alongside ancient Egypt, China, India, and Mesopotamia, through the efforts of the international expedition led by Russian archaeologist Viktor Sarianidi. Approximately four thousand years ago, an oasis thrived in the Karakum Desert, fostering the prosperity of Margiana. The unprecedented findings from the excavations of its former capital, Gonur Depe, constitute a globally significant scientific discovery. Furthermore, Margush is recognized as the world’s earliest home of Zoroastrianism. This historical and cultural park of Turkmenistan, together with Kunya-Urgench and the Parthian Fortresses of Nisa, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The ancient settlements of the world’s first farmers, including in Jeitun, Anau, Gara Depe, Namazga Depe, Altyn Depe, rock paintings in Bezegli Dere, primeval architectural complexes and buildings in Abiverd, Serahs, on the Amu Darya River banks, in the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains, along the Uzboy Channel and in the Sarykamysh Lake delta, possess a lot of secrets for travellers to reveal. These are not all the cultural heritage sites of Turkmenistan.
The ancient Turkmen land abounds in historical and archaeological must-sees. The Turkmen people are proud of their rich history and culture, including in the magnificent Ahalteke horses, perfect carpets, jewellery and works of applied art.
Ahalteke horse
Ahalteke horse, which is represented on the State Emblem, is national treasure and one of the main symbols of the country. The legendary horses are fast as the wind, with a thin long neck and soft skin. It is the oldest breed. The Ahalteke horse is unique in beauty, speed and endurance. This breed gave birth to a number of other bloodlines, influencing the Arab and English breeds. In Turkmenistan, every tourist has to take a picture with the ‘heavenly’ horses, or even take a short horse ride.
Turkmen Carpet
Turkmen carpets are widely known outside the country – a real work of art that conquers with its magnificence. Possessing the heritage and the creative work of many generations, these masterpieces of the Turkmen carpet weavers amaze connoisseurs with the unique expressive means, ornamental beauty, harmony of colour combinations, and the highest quality. Travellers often buy a carpet as a souvenir from Turkmenistan. Some of them choose small carpets for the teacups, others purchase huge carpets to decorate their homes.
Territory & Nature
Turkmenistan’s vast territory is impressive – 488.100 km2 – the same as Italy, Austria, Belgium, and the Netherlands taken together. The northern and central parts of the country are dominated by the deserts of the Turan Lowland, including in the Central, Zaunguz and South-Eastern Karakum Desert, occupying over 80 per cent of the territory. Turkmenistan is bounded by the Caspian Sea to the west. The flora and fauna are rich and diverse and represented by numerous endemic species.
Clean air, healing water springs, unique nature with breath-taking landscapes and pristine unspoiled places attract the guests of the country. Turkmenistan has almost all terrestrial regions and natural sights, namely sea, desert, mountains, caves, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, underground springs, subtropical valleys and volcanoes. All this fascinates the most experienced travel lovers!
The local nature has endowed the Turkmen land with amber grapes, reflecting the warmth of the Turkmen sun. The Turkmen wines and cognacs, made from these grapes, are just perfect. The Turkmen melon, which has been appreciated by travellers for many centuries, is divinely delicious. Juicy fruits and vegetables are available in every corner of the country all year round.
Turkmenistan will make your travelling unforgettable! And your dreams about the most interesting and exciting experience will come true!
Turkmenistan Travel Seasons
Everyone faces a dilemma before a tourist trip: what is the best season to explore this amazing country?
Turkmenistan is notable for special abundance of light and warmth even among other Central Asian countries, which are rightly called ‘sunny’. Every square inch of land here receives twice as much heat during the year as in the countries of Central Europe. The geographic position of Turkmenistan, namely, the central part of the Eurasian continent, an area located far from moderating effect of oceans, is crucial for the local climate.
Thus, Turkmenistan has a desert, severely continental climate. Precipitation tends to be moderate, with a high rate of evaporation.
Obviously, the most favourable season is spring. It starts in March (in the mountains – in April). At this season, the weather can change not only during the day, but also during several hours. In March, the temperature reaches 20-25 °C in the afternoon. There are frequent showers, which contribute to the rapid growth of plants filling the air with their aromas. This is a fascinating season when apricot orchards captivate with sweet smell in a white-pink haze all over the country; almonds, peaches, and other horticultural crops are in bloom.
People who visit the Karakum Desert in spring can see the closest thing to heaven on earth. There are a zillion of plants awakened from hibernation from corner to corner, as far as the eye can see. The unforgettable dizzying scent of flowers that scattered the earth to the horizon will evoke in your heart an overwhelming desire to return to this land again.
HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND Turkmenistan?
Is Turkmenistan safe to travel?
Turkmenistan is the world’s safest country
Travel safety most often becomes a major factor when choosing a tourist destination. In this context, Turkmenistan is beyond comparison. It is the world’s safest country! This fact was confirmed by the Gallup Inc., an analytics and advisory company, known for its public opinion polls conducted worldwide. In October 2020, the company published the Global Law and Order Index, which contains a list of the safest countries on the Earth.
In the Index, Turkmenistan shared the first place with Singapore; both countries scored 97 points out of 100. This index a composite score based on the incidence of theft and assault or mugging, and people’s reported confidence in their local police, their feelings of personal safety in the past year. The higher the score, the higher the proportion of the population that reports feeling secure.
Moreover, to date, Turkmenistan has a zero level of terrorist threat. These results are based on the research by the Institute for Economics and Peace, headquartered in Sydney, Australia.
Holidays and Festivals
Turkmen toy invites!
Your travel to Turkmenistan will become vivid and memorable if you attend a celebration (in Turkmen ‘toy’) dedicated to a national festive event. There are a lot of them in this hospitable and welcoming country.
One of the brightest and impressive festive events is Novruz, which is celebrated as the national spring festival in Turkmenistan on March 21-22. The main celebrations are traditionally held in the suburbs of Ashgabat in the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains, on the Novruz yaylasy site with a building in the form of a huge yurt – Turkmenin ak oyi. Every year in March, a whole town, including in yurts, farmsteads, gardens, workshops, oriental bazaar, exhibition showrooms, stages for theatrical performances, bakhshis and other musicians, dancers and singers, is erected at the venue. The grandiose folklore and ethnographic performance demonstrates the art of carpet weaving, horse breeding, the traditions associated with animal husbandry, gardening, and agriculture. Ancient artefacts are presented in museum exhibitions here; and everyone can take part in the national games, see the best specimen of applied art, and sample delicious dishes that reflect fertility of the Turkmen land, prosperity of Turkmenistan, and hospitality of its people.
One of the oldest festive events in the world – Novruz is inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Other national festive events are no less impressive, with the cultural programme complemented by solemn meetings, art exhibitions, scientific conferences and concerts.
The ‘heavenly’ horses, preservation and development of the ancient national equestrian traditions are cherished with special reverence in Turkmenistan. The Ahalteke horses represent national pride and great treasure, created by the Turkmen people over the centuries. Numerous exhibitions, concerts, various competitions, including in the International Ahalteke Horse Beauty Contest, are held on last Sunday in April. Ashgabat hosts the International Ahalteke Horse Breeding Association Conference on Turkmen Horse Day.
Turkmen Traditions
A guest comes, happiness comes!
This is what the ancestors of the Turkmen people used to say. A guest was considered a sign of God. Any person who came to aul (a Turkmen village) was offered shelter and food in the first yurt he/she came across. The traveller couldn’t refuse and leave the house without having tasted a warm meal.
Hospitality is characteristic of all Central Asian peoples, and the Turkmen people have it as a code of honour. Hospitality has always had a special meaning and rules, which include the norms of behaviour while visiting and receiving guests, as well as table setting and preparation of festive treats.
Lofty principles of traditional behaviour, including in hospitality and respect for the elders, were fostered from early childhood. These principles were followed during the family meal, where the traditional place of honour (in Turkmen ‘tor’) – opposite the entrance and near the hearth was taken by the elder of the family. This place was given to a guest, as soon as he crossed the threshold. At the same time, children got up from their seats, greeting and expressing their respect to the guest.
A number of rituals and sacrificial offerings are associated with the birth of a child in the Turkmen family. Thus, the unleavened flat cakes called ‘bogursaks’ are cooked and dispensed among the neighbours as a sacrificial offering before childbirth. A sadaqa in honour of deceased ancestors is given for easy childbirth. On the birth of the child and the first placing in the cradle, the maternal grandmother bakes pishme (cookies). When the child has the first tooth erupted, the parents prepare a feast and invite their relatives and neighbours with children. On the same day, grandmother prepares a festive treat from corn, so that the child’s teeth grow as white as cornflakes. The day of the child’s first haircut is celebrated even more magnificently.
Turkmen Cuisine
Are you a foodie? If you are, then you should visit Turkmenistan!
Dishes of the Turkmen cuisine impress with the uniqueness, great taste and variety. Obviously, this cuisine is one of the most delicious in the world! Still do not believe? There is a reason to check it out.
Turkmen cuisine has hundreds of delicious recipes that can astonish even the most fastidious gourmets. The Turkmen people has formed the national cuisine over the centuries, combining the traditions of many neighbouring peoples, generously sharing rich experience and know-hows and exchanging the secrets of the culinary art. Nevertheless, the main thing is that the Turkmen cuisine has always been authentic – many ancient traditions are cherished nowadays.
To date, acquaintance with the local cuisine helps foreign tourists get to know the character of the Turkmen people, broaden their ideas about the local culture, and feel the ‘taste’ and ‘aroma’ of the traditions in Turkmenistan. Moreover, the traditions and recipes of the same dishes sometimes differ in the country’s regions.
For example, pilav is a hallmark of both the Central Asian, and the Turkmen cuisine. There are dozens of recipes, including in pilav with lamb, beef, camel meat, chicken, fish, raisins, or fruits.
There are a great number of recipes for barbecue or kebab. The list of fish dishes is huge. A distinctive feature of the Turkmen cuisine has always been richness and simplicity.
Flora and Fauna
Travel to the land of leopard and red deer
Turkmenistan is one of the world’s best places for travelling and discovering new and amazing unique areas for the connoisseurs of natural diversity. The Caspian Sea, the huge, striking and mysterious Karakum Desert, subtropical abundance in the Sumbar Valley, the dangerous Amu Darya River, the picturesque foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains and the secret corners of the Badhyz State Nature Reserve with its unique flora and fauna are combined in the country. Stunning and grandeur waterfalls, the mountain rivers filling the silence with their murmur, beautiful gorges, underground lakes, fabulous caves, a plateau of dinosaurs and the burning gas crater in the centre of the desert or the ‘shining of the Karakum Desert’ in Darvaza captivate travellers.
There are 9 state nature reserves and 16 wildlife preserves on the territory of Turkmenistan. Obviously, the unique nature of the country and its desert and semi-desert biologic systems are extremely vulnerable and depend on human concern. The diversity of the local flora and fauna is unmatched in the entire subcontinent. Over 3000 plant species, about 50 fish species and 279 animal species, as well as over 3 million hectares of forests are under protection.
The ancient Turkmen land is rich in the wild or cultivated plants and breeds of domestic animals. The ‘heavenly’ horses or the well-known Ahalteke horses, the Turkmen greyhound – tazy, the loyal companion of people – alabay, as well as grapes, pomegranates, and delicious Turkmen melons have enhanced the fame of Turkmenistan. Generously endowed by nature, this sunny land is rich in the endemic species of animals and plants.
How Do I Get a Turkmenistan Visa?
You can apply for a Turkmenistan visa at an Embassy or Consulate, but before that, you have to get a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from the Turkmen State Migration Service.
Our travel agency will handle a lot of your visa application for you. We will have the necessary information regarding documents and requirements for the Letter of Invitation.
The application for a Letter of Invitation can take up to 10-14 working days However, once you have the Letter of Invitation, the application for the visa is much easier, since the LOI is the most important part of the visa application.
After we provide the Letter of Invitation
Once you get the Letter of Invitation, you can apply for a visa at the nearest Turkmen Embassy or Consulate. Find the diplomatic representation offices of Turkmenistan here.
- Contact the Embassy/Consulate to inquire about the application process. Some offices may allow you to apply via mail or online.
- You must submit the Letter of Invitation along with your passport and any other required documents.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Wait for the visa to process.
If there is no Turkmen representation in your country, you can also apply for a Visa on Arrival at the airport of Ashgabat or land borders.
Crossing Borders
Airport (Entering Turkmenistan)
The procedures upon arrival at the Airport may seem complicated, but in reality everything is simple. The most important thing you will need is patience. Just follow our instructions step by step.
- Upon arrival, follow the direction of the “Luggage” or “exit” sign.
- First you will need to make a PCR Covid test. Ask the airport staff where they make it and where you should go. Please do not hesitate to ask airport staff for assistance.
- After this, you will need to go to the cashier and pay for the test and visa fee. Ask the airport staff where you should go to pay. Don’t forget to take a receipt, you will need it to apply for a visa. Payment is made in US dollars, the test costs about 33 US dollars (price may change). The visa fee is about 55-75$ depending on nationality, 10-14$ custom fee We advise you to carry the exact amount with you, not damaged banknotes; sometimes there may be no change, and torn or damaged banknotes are not accepted.
- After payment, you go to the Migration Service/ Visa Service, they will issue you a visa. You will need to present a letter of invitation (LOI), a valid passport and payment receipt for the visa and Covid Test. The visa is pasted into the passport.
Suppose you have already issued a visa at the embassy or consulate of Turkmenistan. In that case, you will only need to do and pay for the Covid Test. You don’t have to pay for the visa again. After payment, you will need to go just through passport control.
To collect your luggage, follow the “luggage” sign. At the baggage claim point look at the board for the name of your flight and go to the appropriate place. Please do not hesitate to ask airport staff for assistance.
As at any international airport, there may be a lot of people in queues when going through security and custom formalities. Please be patient and understand that this is an integral part of ensuring everyone’s safety.
Farap border (Entering Turkmenistan)
Opens 24 hours. Lunch break between 12:00 and 13:00. Tourists’ bus will drop off tourists 50-meter walk away from the customs building on Uzbek side.
Then tourists stamped out of Uzbekistan at customs building. Then 300-meter walk to customs gate and there is a shared minivan. It charges one USD for the transfer till to Turkmen side (1km). at the Turkmen-uzbek border PCR test will be taken (33$ per person). After tourists have to change the minivan to Turkmen’s minivan. It charges one USD, too. Tourists are responsible for getting their own luggage on the minivan. Drive to 1.5 km until to Turkmen custom building. Here Turkmen guide will meet tourists and help them.
First, LOI’s asked to tourists to obtain a visa. The visa fee is about 55-75$ depends on a nationality, 10-14$ custom fee. Then stamp in and fill out the custom declaration form, custom formalities. Leave on another minivan (one USD) for the last checkpoint with the guide. From here bus Tourists’ bus will pick tourists up.
Khiva border (Entering Turkmenistan)
Opens at 9am, and closes at 6 pm. Lunch break between 12:00 and 13:00
Tourists’ bus will drop off tourists 50-meter walk away from the Uzbekistan customs building. Tourists stamped out of Uzbekistan. Custom formalities. 1km walk till to Turkmen customs building. There is no shared vehicle. PCR test will be taken (33$ per person). First, LOI’s asked to tourists to obtain a visa. The visa fee is about 55-75$ depending on nationality, 10-14$ custom fee. Then stamp in and fill out the custom declaration form, and custom formalities. Here Turkmen guide will meet tourists and help them. Leave the building and walk 150m to the bus.
Darvaza – gate to underground
Fifty years old shining torch of Karakum Desert in the Central Asia. This is not a story, not a legend, it is real! The fire may have existed to avoid poisonous methane gas discharge, by burning off the gas, and while geologists had hoped the fire would consume the fuel in a few days, the gas is still burning fifty years later. The name of the crater is older than it. Darvaza (Derweze in Turkmen ‘Gate’ in English) district is in the middle of desert area and have one of the biggest gas reserves in the world.
The place is discovered by Soviet geologists while searching for a gas reserve. While drilling in 1971, they tapped into a cavern filled with natural gas. The ground beneath the drilling rig collapsed, leaving a large hole with 70 meters (230 ft.) diameter and 30 meters (99 ft.) deep.
The early years of the crater’s history are uncertain: local geologists say the collapse into a crater happened in the 1960s, and the gases were not set on fire until the 1980s. There are, however, no records available of either the Soviet or Turkmen version of events.
Crater is located 260 kilometers (160 mile) north of capital city Ashgabat. The surrounding area is popular for wild desert camping. However, it is not only crater in the area. Mud Crater and Turquoise Lake Crater also worth seeing. The site is becoming a popular tourist attraction. Especially, at night, the crater looks amazing.
A little long drive, beautiful sunset, incredible photo opportunities, traditional houses, delicious meals, and beautiful sunrise are waiting for you in Darvaza. In the dark of the black desert night, it makes yourself feel lucky to be in Manmade wonder. Turkmen traditional meal shashlik is nice choice and it is like you are there for.
Tour to Darvaza is always possible except some conditions in winter makes drive impossible. Spring, summer or fall nice weather conditions to camp and experience unique sunset and sunrise of the Karakum desert. However, it does not matter winter or summer, the burning fire of Darvaza never ends…
Sport Hotel
Oguzkent Hotel
Archabil Hotel
Yyldyz Hotel
Mary Hotel
Nebitchi Hotel
Sport Hotel in Ashgabat: Comfort and Affordability
Sport Hotel in Ashgabat is a modern four-star hotel catering to both sports delegations and individual tourists who appreciate comfortable accommodation at a reasonable price. The hotel was opened in preparation for the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games.
Rooms and their Quality:
Sport Hotel has 262 rooms of various categories, including standard single and double rooms, as well as suites. All rooms are decorated in a modern style using light and neutral tones, creating a sense of cleanliness and spaciousness. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a mini-bar, a safe, and a private bathroom with a shower or bathtub, as well as necessary toiletries. According to reviews, the rooms are clean and functional, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests.
Services for Foreign Guests and Additional Amenities:
Sport Hotel strives to provide a comfortable stay for all guests, including international tourists:
- Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
- Dining: The hotel has a restaurant serving national and international cuisine. Breakfast is usually included in the room rate. There is also a lobby bar where guests can order drinks and light snacks.
- Sports and Recreation: The hotel has well-developed sports infrastructure, which is not surprising given its name and history. Guests may have access to:
- An outdoor swimming pool.
- A gym equipped with modern equipment.
- Sports grounds (possibly for basketball, volleyball, and other sports, information needs to be clarified).
- For Business: A conference hall for business meetings and events.
- Additional Services:
- 24-hour front desk.
- Concierge service.
- Luggage storage.
- Laundry and dry cleaning services.
- Room service.
- Airport shuttle (may be available at an additional cost).
- Free parking.
- ATM on site.
- Souvenir shop.
Room Types:
Exact information on all room types may vary, but Sport Hotel typically offers the following categories:
- Standard single rooms
- Standard double rooms (with two separate beds or one double bed)
- Suites (presumably more spacious rooms with additional amenities)
It is recommended to clarify the available room categories and their amenities directly when booking.
Hotel Grounds:
Sport Hotel usually has well-maintained grounds. The presence of an outdoor pool implies a relaxation area with sun loungers and umbrellas. Given the sports focus, there may be sports grounds on the territory. The hotel often has a convenient location with access to transport links and other urban infrastructure.
Oguzkent Hotel in Ashgabat: Elegance and Hospitality
Oguzkent Hotel, part of the Yangy Abadgent Hotel Complex, is located in the very center of Ashgabat and is one of the most prestigious five-star hotels in the city. With its convenient location, exquisite design, and high-class service, the hotel attracts both business travelers and tourists.
Rooms and their Quality:
Oguzkent Hotel features 170 rooms, including standard rooms, deluxe rooms, executive suites, and a presidential suite. All rooms boast elegant design, combining modern amenities with elements of national decor. The rooms are furnished with comfortable furniture, large windows provide good natural light, and the color scheme promotes relaxation. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, free Wi-Fi, a mini-bar, a safe, a telephone, and a spacious bathroom with a bathtub or shower, hairdryer, bathrobes, and slippers. According to reviews, the rooms offer a high level of comfort, cleanliness, and attention to detail.
Services for Foreign Guests and Additional Amenities:
Oguzkent Hotel offers a wide range of services to ensure a comfortable stay for international guests:
- Language Support: Hotel staff speaks several foreign languages, including English.
- Visa Support: The hotel can assist with visa arrangements (it is recommended to inquire in advance).
- Transfer: Organization of transfers to/from Ashgabat International Airport and the railway station.
- Currency Exchange: A currency exchange office is located directly in the hotel.
- Information and Excursions: The concierge service will provide information about the city, attractions, and help organize excursions.
- Internet: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
- Dining:
- Main Restaurant: Offers a buffet breakfast, as well as international and national cuisine à la carte for lunch and dinner.
- A la carte Restaurant: Fine dining in a more formal setting.
- Lobby Bar: A cozy place to relax with a wide selection of drinks and snacks.
- Cafe/Patisserie: Offers fresh pastries, desserts, and beverages.
- Spa and Wellness: A modern spa center with an indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, massage rooms, and a beauty salon.
- Fitness Center: A well-equipped gym to maintain your fitness routine.
- For Business: Several conference rooms of various capacities, equipped with modern audio and video equipment, as well as a business center with access to office equipment and the internet.
- Additional Services:
- 24-hour room service.
- Laundry and dry cleaning services.
- Babysitting services (upon request).
- Car rental.
- Souvenir shop.
- ATM.
- Free parking.
- Elevator.
- Safety deposit box at the reception.
Room Types:
- Standard Rooms: Comfortable rooms with one double or two single beds.
- Deluxe Rooms: More spacious rooms with enhanced views and additional amenities.
- Executive Suites: Luxurious rooms including a bedroom and a separate living area, often with extra amenities for work and relaxation.
- Presidential Suite: The most exclusive accommodation option, offering several rooms including bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, a study, and luxurious bathrooms.
Hotel Grounds:
Oguzkent Hotel features well-maintained grounds in the city center. The inner courtyard may include landscaping and relaxation areas. The hotel usually has convenient access and is located in close proximity to the main attractions, business centers, and shopping streets of Ashgabat.
Archabil Hotel in Ashgabat: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Archabil Hotel in Ashgabat, formerly known as President Hotel, is one of Turkmenistan’s most renowned and luxurious five-star hotels. Located in a prestigious area of the capital, the hotel offers high-class service and comfort, attracting both dignitaries, business travelers, and tourists.
Rooms and their Quality:
Archabil Hotel features 179 rooms of various categories, including standard single and double rooms, suites (junior suite, senior suite), apartments, and presidential suites. All rooms are decorated in an elegant classical style, using high-quality materials and attention to detail. The spacious rooms are equipped with modern furniture, air conditioning, satellite TV, a mini-bar, a safe, a telephone, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are fitted with all necessary amenities, including a hairdryer, bathrobes, and slippers. Rooms are maintained to impeccable cleanliness, ensuring maximum comfort for guests.
Services for Foreign Guests and Additional Amenities:
Archabil Hotel provides a wide range of services tailored for international guests:
- Language Support: Hotel staff are multilingual, including English, ensuring easy communication.
- Visa Support: The hotel can assist with visa invitation letters (it is advisable to inquire in advance).
- Transfer: Arrangement of transfers to/from Ashgabat International Airport.
- Currency Exchange: A currency exchange office is available within the hotel.
- Concierge Service: Provides information about the city, assists with organizing excursions, and booking tickets.
- Internet: Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the hotel.
- Dining:
- Multiple Restaurants and Bars: The hotel offers a choice of restaurants serving traditional Turkmen cuisine, as well as European and Asian dishes. Buffet breakfast is usually included in the room rate.
- Lobby Bar: An ideal spot for informal meetings and relaxation.
- Room Service: Available 24 hours a day.
- Spa and Wellness: A modern spa center includes:
- An indoor swimming pool.
- Saunas (Finnish, Turkish).
- Massage rooms.
- Beauty salon.
- Fitness Center: A well-equipped gym.
- For Business:
- Conference Halls: Several conference rooms of various capacities, equipped with modern presentation facilities.
- Business Center: Provides copying, printing, computer, and internet access services.
- Additional Services:
- Laundry and dry cleaning services.
- Souvenir shop.
- ATM.
- Free parking.
- Elevator.
- Safety deposit box at the reception.
- Shops.
- Hairdresser.
Room Types:
- Standard Rooms: Comfortable single and double rooms.
- Suites (Junior Suite, Senior Suite): More spacious rooms with a separate living area.
- Apartments: Offer even more space and may include a kitchenette.
- Presidential Suites: The most luxurious and spacious accommodations with multiple rooms, exclusive design, and additional amenities.
Hotel Grounds:
Archabil Hotel is set within extensive and well-maintained grounds with lush greenery. The premises may feature:
- An outdoor swimming pool with relaxation areas.
- Beautifully landscaped gardens.
- Sports facilities (e.g., tennis courts, which might have been part of the original complex).
Yyldyz Hotel in Ashgabat: Luxury and Comfort
Yyldyz Hotel, located in Ashgabat at the foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains, is one of the most luxurious five-star hotels in Turkmenistan. The hotel building, 107 meters high with 24 floors, has a unique teardrop shape and offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The hotel was built in 2013.
Rooms and their Quality:
Yyldyz Hotel has 155 rooms of various comfort levels, including standard rooms, suites, and presidential apartments. Even standard rooms feature stylish and comfortable designs. The rooms are spacious, decorated in light colors with extensive use of wood, creating a cozy atmosphere. High ceilings and large windows allow guests to enjoy natural light and beautiful views. Some rooms can be combined for family convenience. The Presidential Suites offer royal luxury, with separate living and dining areas, and a well-equipped workspace. Two hotel rooms are designed to accommodate guests with disabilities.
Services for Foreign Guests and Additional Amenities:
For the convenience of foreign guests and all residents, the hotel offers a wide range of services:
- Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, including rooms, the lobby, and the business center.
- Dining: Breakfast is included in the room rate. The hotel features three restaurants and bars, including a panoramic restaurant located between the 18th and 19th floors, offering magnificent views. The cuisine includes Turkish, French, Italian, and Turkmen dishes, as well as a vegetarian menu.
- Spa and Fitness: Guests can enjoy a modern spa center with a Finnish sauna, Turkish hammam, snow shower, massage and beauty parlors, and a tea room with a wide selection of Turkmen herbs. There are two indoor swimming pools and one outdoor pool (with jacuzzi), and a gym.
- For Business: A 24-hour business center, conference halls equipped with audio systems, microphones, projectors, and other necessary equipment for presentations and seminars. The hotel’s congress center, covering 1000 m², can accommodate over 600 people and can be divided into several smaller halls.
- Entertainment: A disco club and an open-air poolside cafe.
- Sports: Tennis courts and a volleyball court.
- Hotel Services: 24-hour room service, mail delivery, laundry services, in-house doctor, porter services, airport and train station transfer (extra charge), breakfast in bed (free), baby cots, playground, non-smoking rooms, outdoor and indoor parking, hotel safe, elevator, currency exchange office, gift shop.
Hotel Grounds:
The hotel is situated on the outskirts of the Kopetdag Mountains, offering excellent city views. The total area of the building is 50,620 square meters, and the adjacent land covers approximately 85,000 square meters. The hotel grounds are well-maintained, featuring an outdoor swimming pool where guests can relax and enjoy drinks.
Mary Hotel Description :
Mary Hotel in the city of Mary, Turkmenistan, opened in 2015, is one of the largest and most grand hotels in the city, offering five-star accommodation. It is located in the city center, approximately a 15-minute drive from the airport and less than a mile from the city museum.
Rooms and Their Quality:
The hotel features 177 rooms spread across six floors. The rooms are decorated in a classic style and are equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay. The quality of the rooms is characterized by cleanliness and functionality. Each room includes comfortable beds, a private bathroom with essential toiletries (slippers, toothbrush/toothpaste, soap, shampoo, shower gel), air conditioning, satellite TV, a mini-refrigerator, a safe, a telephone, and free Wi-Fi. There are also two specially equipped rooms designed to cater to the needs of guests with disabilities.
Room Types: The room categories offered by Mary Hotel may include:
- Standard Single Rooms (approximately 76 rooms).
- Standard Double Rooms.
- Deluxe Rooms.
- Suites (including Standard Suites).
Hotel Grounds and Additional Services:
The hotel premises include an elegant restaurant where a buffet breakfast is served from 07:00 to 10:00. There is also a lobby bar for relaxation. For business needs, two well-appointed conference rooms are available. Guests looking to stay active can utilize the fully equipped gym, an outdoor swimming pool, and a sauna. Tennis courts are present in the adjoining territory. Additionally, the hotel grounds feature an on-site gift shop, carpet store, beauty salon, massage cabinet, currency exchange office, and a business center. The hotel provides laundry and dry cleaning services, 24-hour room service, concierge services, mail delivery, as well as the organization of city tours and transfers to the airport and train station (for an extra charge). Free parking is available.
Nebitchi Hotel in Balkanabat: Comfort for Travelers
Nebitchi Hotel, located in the city of Balkanabat (formerly Nebit-Dag), is one of the central accommodation options in this important industrial region of Turkmenistan. The hotel caters to both business travelers and tourists, offering comfortable conditions for stay and relaxation.
Rooms and their Quality:
“Nebitchi” is a mid-range hotel offering a standard level of comfort. The exact number of rooms may vary and have several dozens of rooms. The rooms are feature standard amenities: air conditioning, a television, a mini-bar, a telephone, and a private bathroom. The room design is functional and without frills, but ensures cleanliness and basic comfort. The quality of the rooms is consistent with its class, providing adequate conditions for overnight stays and relaxation after a busy day.
Services for Foreign Guests and Additional Amenities:
For foreign guests and all residents, Nebitchi Hotel usually provides essential services:
- Internet: Wi-Fi access may be available (could be chargeable or free in certain areas).
- Dining: The hotel has a restaurant or cafe offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The cuisine includes local and basic European dishes.
- Reception: A 24-hour front desk, whose staff can assist with city information or taxi calls.
- Additional Services:
- Parking (usually free).
- Laundry service (may be available for an additional charge).
- Room service (limited menu and hours).
- Elevator.
Room Types:
Нotel offers the following room categories:
- Standard single rooms
- Standard double rooms (with one double bed or two single beds)
Hotel Grounds:
The grounds of Nebitchi Hotel in Balkanabat are compact. It include a small landscaped area at the entrance or an inner courtyard. The hotel’s urban location implies convenient access to local attractions, shops, and business facilities.
