Why visit
Turkmenistan pairs the flaming Darvaza gas crater with Ashgabat, a white-marble capital of world-record eccentricity, and the Silk Road ruins of Merv. Travel is tightly organized, with most visits arranged through fixed itineraries.
Country - Asia
Turkmenistan
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How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
Turkmenistan works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Ashgabat as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in Turkmenistan.
At a glance
Location
40.0°, 60.0°
Coast
Landlocked
Country area
488,100 km²
188,456 mi²
Subregion
Central Asia
Currency
Turkmenistan manat (m)
TMT
Dial
+993
Languages
Russian, Turkmen
Demonym
Turkmen
Internet
.tm
UN
Member state
ISO code
TM / TKM
Where in the world
40.0° - 60.0°
Turkmenistan
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Turkmenistan's Darvaza Gas Crater: "Door to Hell": has been burning since 1971 when Soviet engineers set it alight to burn off methane.
- Ashgabat holds the Guinness record for the city with the most white-marble buildings.
- Turkmenistan is one of the most closed countries in the world, requiring a visa and a guide for most visitors.
Bordering Turkmenistan
Traveler notes
- The Darvaza crater has burned since 1971
- Ashgabat holds Guinness records for marble cladding and fountains
- Independent travel is heavily restricted; tours are the norm
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Ashgabat, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Turkmenistan
What is the capital of Turkmenistan?
Ashgabat is the capital of Turkmenistan.
What currency does Turkmenistan use?
Turkmenistan uses the Turkmenistan manat (m), ISO code TMT.
What languages are spoken in Turkmenistan?
The primary languages are Russian and Turkmen.
Is Turkmenistan landlocked?
Yes, Turkmenistan is landlocked: it has no sea coastline.
What countries border Turkmenistan?
Turkmenistan borders Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan.
What is the international calling code for Turkmenistan?
The calling code is +993.
When is the best time to visit Turkmenistan?
Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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