Geographical position and Climate of Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan is situated in Central Asia, bordered by the Caspian Sea to the west, Kazakhstan to the northwest, Uzbekistan to the north and east, Afghanistan to the southeast, and Iran to the south. The country’s geographic coordinates are approximately 40 degrees north latitude and 60 degrees east longitude.
Turkmenistan has a continental desert climate characterized by:
- Hot Summers: Temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), particularly in inland areas away from the Caspian Sea.
- Cold Winters: In contrast, winters can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, especially in the north.
- Low Precipitation: Rainfall is scarce throughout the year, with some regions receiving less than 80 mm (3 inches) annually.
- Temperature Variations: There are significant temperature fluctuations between day and night due to the arid environment.
Brief history of Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan boasts a rich tapestry of history, with its lands once forming a crucial part of the Silk Road that facilitated trade and cultural exchanges between the East and West. The region has been inhabited since ancient times, with various empires and conquerors, such as Alexander the Great, passing through its territory.
In the medieval period, Turkmen tribes played a significant role in the composition of the area, and by the 16th century, they had established themselves firmly within the region. The subsequent centuries saw the rise and fall of various Turkmen states, often influenced by neighboring Persian empires.
The 19th century marked the beginning of Russian influence, leading to Turkmenistan becoming part of the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union. It was during the Soviet era that Turkmenistan underwent significant modernization and development, albeit under strict control from Moscow.
Turkmenistan declared independence in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Since then, it has navigated its path as a sovereign nation, developing its vast gas resources and maintaining a policy of neutrality in international affairs. Despite its rich natural resources, Turkmenistan remains relatively isolated, with a political system that has been criticized for its lack of transparency and limited political freedoms.
Religion of Turkmenistan
The predominant religion in Turkmenistan is Islam, with the majority of the population adhering to Sunni Islam of the Hanafi school. Islam has played a significant role in shaping the cultural and social fabric of Turkman society throughout history.
In addition to Islam, there are small communities of Eastern Orthodox Christians, primarily Russians and Armenians, as well as other Christian denominations. The constitution of Turkmenistan guarantees freedom of religion; however, in practice, religious activities are subject to state regulation and control.
Language of Turkmenistan
The official language of Turkmenistan is Turkmen, which belongs to the Turkic language family. It is the mother tongue for the majority of the population and is used in government, education, and media. Turkmen is written in a Latin-based alphabet that was adopted after the country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Russian also remains widely spoken in Turkmenistan, particularly among the older generation and in the cities, as a legacy of the Soviet era. It serves as a lingua franca for interethnic communication and is understood by many, although its use has declined since independence.
Places to visit in Turkmenistan
Before you visit Turkmenistan
Travel to Turkmenistan
Traveling to Turkmenistan typically involves a few common entry methods:
- By Air:
- The most common and convenient way to enter Turkmanistan is by air.
- Ashgabat International Airport (ASB) is the main gateway, with flights from several major cities in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
- Airlines such as Turkmenistan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and others operate international flights to and from Ashgabat.
- By Land:
- There are border crossings accessible from Iran, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Afghanistan.
- Travelers can enter by car or bus, but it’s essential to check the current status of border crossings as they may be subject to closures or restrictions.
- By Sea:
- The Caspian Sea offers another route into Turkmenistan, with ferry services available from Azerbaijan to the port city of Turkmenbashi.
- This option is less frequent and schedules can be irregular, so it requires careful planning.
- By Train:
- There are train services connecting Turkmenistan with neighboring countries, although these are less commonly used by international travelers due to long travel times and infrequent schedules.
Regardless of the mode of transportation, it is crucial for travelers to obtain a visa before entering Turkmenistan, unless they come from a visa-exempt country. Visas can be applied for at Turkmen embassies or consulates abroad, and often require an invitation letter. Additionally, travelers should be aware that certain areas within Turkmenistan may require special permits to visit. Always check the latest travel advisories and visa regulations well in advance of your trip.
Visas for Turkmenistan
Obtaining a visa for Turkmenistan typically involves the following steps:
- Letter of Invitation (LOI):
- Most travelers will need to secure a Letter of Invitation, also known as a visa support letter, from a licensed tour company in Turkmanistan.
- The LOI must be approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Turkmenistan.
- Visa Application:
- Once you have the LOI, you can apply for a visa at a Turkmen embassy or consulate in your country.
- The application usually requires filling out forms, providing photos, and submitting your passport along with the LOI.
- Visa Types:
- Tourist Visa: For those traveling on a pre-arranged tour or with a travel agency.
- Transit Visa: If passing through Turkmenistan en route to another destination; valid for up to five days.
- Fees and Processing Time:
- Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and the speed of processing required.
- Regular processing times can range from a few days to several weeks.
- At the Border:
- Upon arrival, you may be asked to present your visa and possibly proof of your travel plans, such as hotel bookings or a tour itinerary.
- You might also be required to register with the State Migration Service within a few days of arrival.
- Special Permits:
- Some areas of Turkmenistan require special permits to visit, which are separate from the visa. These areas often include border zones and certain nature reserves.
It’s important to note that visa regulations can change, and entry to Turkmanistan is known to be more restrictive than many other countries. Always check the most current information from an official source or a trusted travel agency well before your intended travel date.
Best time to visit Turkmenistan
The best time to visit Turkmanistan is during the spring and autumn months:
- Spring (April to June): The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). This is an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing, as the desert blooms with flowers and the days are comfortably warm.
- Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, autumn offers moderate temperatures and clear skies. It’s a great time to explore the country’s historical sites and natural beauty without the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter.
Summers (July to August) in Turkmenistan can be extremely hot, especially in inland areas where temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, and some regions may experience snowfall, making travel more challenging.
Regardless of when you plan to visit, it’s always a good idea to check the local weather and any travel advisories specific to the regions you intend to explore.
Important Information
Capital – Ashgabat
Territory – 491,210 km2
Currency – Manat (TMT)
Time Zone – UTC+5 (TMT)
Population – 7,057,841
Demonym – Turkmenistani/ Turkmen / Turkmenian