Key Takeaways:
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Ashgabat offers a unique mix of grand architecture, ancient history, and surreal modern landscapes, making it a year-round destination.
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From marble-clad government buildings to archaeological ruins and vibrant bazaars, Ashgabat combines the old and new in striking ways.
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This guide shares 10 top activities that showcase Ashgabat’s fascinating culture, futuristic design, and desert beauty.
Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, is often described as one of the world’s most unusual and visually stunning cities. Known for its white marble buildings, golden domes, wide boulevards, and strict urban planning, Ashgabat feels both futuristic and surreal. Beneath its shiny surface, the city also holds a deep connection to Silk Road history, ancient civilizations, and Turkmen cultural traditions.
Travelers are drawn to Ashgabat for its otherworldly cityscape, quiet streets, and mix of modern monuments and ancient ruins nearby. Whether you’re visiting grand palaces, shopping in local bazaars, or exploring nearby mountains, Ashgabat offers fascinating experiences all year long. Here are 10 incredible things to do in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.
Table of Contents
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Visit the Ashgabat National Museum of History
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Explore the Ancient City of Nisa
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Wander Around Independence Square
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Experience the Altyn Asyr Bazaar
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Stroll Through the Arch of Neutrality Park
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Discover the Turkmen Carpet Museum
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Ride the Ashgabat Cable Car to Kopet Dag Mountains
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Visit the Ruhyyet Palace and Monument District
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Attend National Day Celebrations and Cultural Festivals
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Take a Day Trip to Kow Ata Underground Lake
1. Visit the Ashgabat National Museum of History
The Ashgabat National Museum of History is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to understand Turkmenistan’s rich past. The museum houses vast collections of artifacts from ancient civilizations like Margiana and Parthia, as well as exhibits on Silk Road trade, tribal culture, and Turkmenistan’s modern development. The displays are detailed and beautifully curated, with impressive gold jewelry, ancient pottery, and textiles.
The museum’s architecture is as grand as its collections, blending marble design with cultural motifs. Open year-round, it offers cool indoor exploration during hot summers and detailed guided tours in several languages. Visiting the museum provides essential context before exploring Ashgabat’s many historical sites.
2. Explore the Ancient City of Nisa
Located just outside Ashgabat, the UNESCO-listed ruins of Nisa were once the capital of the Parthian Empire. The archaeological site features the remnants of palaces, fortifications, and temples that date back over 2,000 years. The windswept ruins stand against the backdrop of the Kopet Dag Mountains, making it both historically significant and visually striking.
Walking among the ancient walls, visitors gain a sense of how powerful and influential this early empire once was. The site is accessible year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather. Nisa is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history and Silk Road culture.
3. Wander Around Independence Square
Independence Square is one of Ashgabat’s most impressive public spaces, showcasing the country’s distinct architectural style. Surrounded by white marble government buildings, towering statues, fountains, and floral displays, the square embodies Turkmenistan’s national identity. The Independence Monument, topped with a golden crescent and star, stands at its center as a symbol of sovereignty.
Visiting the square at different times of day offers varying experiences, from quiet morning walks to beautifully illuminated night views. The surrounding gardens provide shaded rest areas, and the space often hosts national celebrations. It’s an iconic area that reflects the grand design of modern Ashgabat.
4. Experience the Altyn Asyr Bazaar
Altyn Asyr Bazaar, also known as the Tolkuchka Bazaar, is the largest market in Turkmenistan. The market’s sprawling, modern complex is shaped like a giant carpet and sells everything from carpets and jewelry to livestock, produce, and textiles. Locals and tourists alike visit to browse traditional Turkmen crafts and bargain for souvenirs.
The bazaar’s vibrant stalls offer colorful displays of spices, handmade hats, silk scarves, and embroidered garments. Open year-round, it’s best visited in the morning before temperatures rise. For an authentic look at daily life and traditional craftsmanship, Altyn Asyr Bazaar is a must-experience.
5. Stroll Through the Arch of Neutrality Park
The Arch of Neutrality is one of Ashgabat’s most recognizable landmarks, symbolizing Turkmenistan’s foreign policy of neutrality. The structure features a golden statue of former president Saparmurat Niyazov, which slowly rotates to face the sun. Visitors can take an elevator up the arch for panoramic views of the city’s gleaming white skyline.
Surrounding the arch is a large park with fountains, shaded paths, and manicured gardens ideal for peaceful walks. The monument and park are especially beautiful at night when lit against the dark sky. It’s a unique attraction that combines political history with architectural curiosity.
6. Discover the Turkmen Carpet Museum
The Turkmen Carpet Museum celebrates one of Turkmenistan’s most iconic cultural symbols: the handwoven carpet. Inside, visitors will find an extraordinary collection of massive and intricately designed carpets, some of which hold world records for their size. Each carpet reflects the unique patterns, colors, and tribal identities of Turkmen communities.
The museum offers detailed explanations of carpet-making techniques and the cultural importance of these textiles throughout Turkmen history. Guided tours help visitors appreciate the symbolism woven into each piece. This year-round attraction is both visually stunning and deeply informative for those interested in traditional arts and crafts.
7. Ride the Ashgabat Cable Car to Kopet Dag Mountains
Just outside the city, the Ashgabat Cable Car transports visitors up into the Kopet Dag Mountains for panoramic views of the city and desert landscape. The 4-kilometer ride offers a smooth and scenic journey into the surrounding natural beauty. Once at the top, observation decks, picnic areas, and walking trails offer peaceful escapes from the city below.
The cooler mountain air makes this especially popular during the hot summer months, though it remains open throughout the year. Sunset rides are particularly breathtaking as the golden light reflects off Ashgabat’s white marble skyline. The cable car experience adds a refreshing natural dimension to your Ashgabat visit.
8. Visit the Ruhyyet Palace and Monument District
Ruhyyet Palace is part of Ashgabat’s grand monument district, home to government buildings, museums, and national symbols. Though the palace itself is not open to the public, the surrounding plaza and gardens are beautifully designed for walking and photography. Golden domes, marble pillars, and elaborate fountains reflect Turkmenistan’s bold national architecture.
The entire monument area is immaculately maintained, offering dramatic visuals in every direction. Evening visits are especially memorable when the monuments are illuminated under the night sky. This area showcases the scale and ambition of Ashgabat’s unique urban planning.
9. Attend National Day Celebrations and Cultural Festivals
Throughout the year, Ashgabat hosts major national celebrations such as Independence Day in October and Neutrality Day in December. These public holidays feature military parades, traditional dance performances, concerts, and fireworks displays. Cultural festivals also spotlight Turkmen music, horse riding demonstrations, and folk art exhibitions.
Tourists are welcome to attend many of these events, which offer rare insights into national pride and Turkmen traditions. Planning your trip to coincide with a festival will provide unforgettable experiences and vibrant street celebrations. The atmosphere during these holidays transforms Ashgabat into a festive and colorful city.
10. Take a Day Trip to Kow Ata Underground Lake
Located about 90 minutes from Ashgabat, Kow Ata is a natural underground lake inside a vast limestone cave. Known for its warm, mineral-rich waters, the lake is popular for swimming and therapeutic bathing. The cave maintains a constant warm temperature, making it accessible in any season.
The journey to Kow Ata offers scenic views of the desert and nearby mountains. Visitors often combine the lake with nearby countryside stops for a full day of exploration. It’s a unique natural wonder that contrasts beautifully with Ashgabat’s urban design.
What to do if you have kids?
Ashgabat offers several family-friendly activities perfect for kids of all ages. Children will enjoy exploring the Arch of Neutrality Park, riding the cable car, and seeing the huge carpets at the Turkmen Carpet Museum. The fountains and open spaces at Independence Square provide safe, open areas for running and playing.
Many of the city’s parks have playgrounds, while the Altyn Asyr Bazaar offers colorful sights and fun treats for kids to try. Ashgabat’s wide, clean streets and calm pace make it easy for families to navigate. With a mix of cultural sights and outdoor fun, the city keeps kids entertained year-round.
Where can I find free events in Ashgabat Turkmenistan taking place this weekend?
To find free events happening in Ashgabat this weekend, visit https://planmyweekend.ai. The platform curates national holidays, cultural festivals, public concerts, and city park activities updated weekly. You can easily search by date, location, or type of event to plan your perfect weekend.
Whether you’re looking for parades, open-air performances, or exhibitions, Plan My Weekend helps you explore Ashgabat’s lively calendar. It’s the easiest way to stay connected to the city’s free cultural events while traveling.
Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Ashgabat
Ashgabat stands as one of the most fascinating and visually unique capitals in the world. Its blend of futuristic marble architecture, ancient ruins, rich traditions, and surreal urban design create a destination unlike any other. The city offers calm streets, friendly locals, and a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere for travelers seeking something different.
Whether you come for the monuments, the history, or the natural escapes, Ashgabat rewards curiosity with memorable experiences year-round. It’s a place where modern ambition meets ancient roots—offering visitors an unforgettable journey into Turkmenistan’s cultural heart.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
