Turkmenistan Country Facts
Land of golden deserts, ancient Silk Road cities, mysterious gas craters, and marble-filled capitals.
Quick Country Facts
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country Name | Turkmenistan |
| Capital | Ashgabat |
| Continent | Asia (Central Asia) |
| Population | ~6.5 million (Rank: ~110th globally) |
| Official Language | Turkmen |
| Currency | Turkmenistani Manat (TMT) |
| Time Zone | GMT +5 |
| Calling Code | +993 |
Short Fact: Turkmenistan – Home to the Door to Hell and Desert Mysteries
Turkmenistan is one of the most secretive countries in the world, famous for its Darvaza gas crater, Silk Road legacy, and marble-clad capital, Ashgabat.
Long Fact: Turkmenistan – The Hidden Gem of Central Asia
Turkmenistan, located in Central Asia, is a desert nation bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and the Caspian Sea. With a harsh Karakum Desert covering over 70% of the land, it has long been part of the ancient Silk Road.
The capital city, Ashgabat, is known for its extravagant architecture, with white marble buildings, wide boulevards, and golden statues. It holds a Guinness World Record for the highest concentration of marble buildings in the world.
One of Turkmenistan’s most curious tourist attractions is the Darvaza Gas Crater, also called the “Door to Hell.” This massive fiery pit has been burning continuously since the 1970s, making it a surreal desert spectacle.
The people of Turkmenistan are predominantly Turkmen, with a culture rooted in tribal traditions, Islamic heritage, and Soviet influence. While Turkmen is the official language, Russian is also widely understood.
The country maintains a neutral foreign policy, and it is one of the most politically closed nations globally, with tight control over media and internet access.
Economically, Turkmenistan depends on natural gas exports, especially to China. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, also plays a significant role.
Culturally, Turkmenistan is known for its horse breeds (like the Akhal-Teke), handwoven carpets, and colorful national dress. Traditional festivals like Nowruz (Persian New Year) are celebrated with food, music, and dance.
Due to limited tourism infrastructure and government restrictions, traveling to Turkmenistan requires planning, guided tours, and visa approval — but for adventure seekers, it’s a one-of-a-kind destination.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Turkmenistan
Q1. What is Turkmenistan famous for?
Ans: For the Darvaza Gas Crater, white marble capital, desert landscapes, and Akhal-Teke horses.
Q2. Is Turkmenistan part of the Silk Road?
Ans: Yes, several ancient Silk Road cities, like Merv, are located in Turkmenistan.
Q3. What is the capital of Turkmenistan?
Ans: Ashgabat, known for its white marble architecture.
Q4. What is the “Door to Hell”?
Ans: It’s a massive gas crater in the Karakum Desert that has been burning for decades.
Q5. Is Turkmenistan safe for tourists?
Ans: It is generally safe, but highly restricted. Tourists must travel via authorized guides.
Q6. What religion is practiced in Turkmenistan?
Ans: Islam, primarily Sunni, is the main religion.
Q7. What is the main language spoken?
Ans: Turkmen is official, but Russian is also spoken in urban areas.
Q8. Is internet access available?
Ans: Yes, but it is heavily censored and slow.
Q9. What is unique about Turkmenistan’s capital?
Ans: Ashgabat has the world’s highest concentration of white marble buildings.
Q10. What currency is used in Turkmenistan?
Ans: The Turkmenistani Manat (TMT).