Essential Information
Turkmenabat, the second-largest city in Turkmenistan, is a key transport hub and a cultural center in the eastern part of the country. Located on the banks of the Amu Darya River, it is a historically significant city that was once an important stop along the Silk Road. Turkmenabat blends Soviet-era influences, Silk Road heritage, and modern development, making it an intriguing place to visit.
- Location: Eastern Turkmenistan, near the Uzbekistan border.
- Language: Turkmen is the official language, but Russian is commonly spoken.
- Currency: Turkmenistan Manat (TMT). Cash is preferred; credit cards are rarely accepted.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the best weather for sightseeing. Summers can be extremely hot.
- Visa Requirements: A Turkmen visa and an invitation letter from a registered tour company are required. Independent travel is restricted, and most visitors need a guide.
Interesting Facts About Turkmenabat
- Ancient Merv Connection: Turkmenabat has strong historical ties to Merv, one of the greatest cities of the Silk Road.
- Amu Darya River: This major Central Asian river flows through the city, supporting agriculture and wildlife.
- Formerly Chardzhou: During the Soviet era, Turkmenabat was known as Chardzhou, an important railway and industrial center.
- Cotton Capital: The region is known for its cotton production, a key part of Turkmenistan’s economy.
- Lebap Region Hub: Turkmenabat serves as the administrative center of the Lebap Province, which is rich in natural and cultural landmarks.
How to Get to Turkmenabat
By Air
- Turkmenabat International Airport (CRZ) has domestic and limited international flights.
- The main connection is from Ashgabat, with daily flights operated by Turkmenistan Airlines.
With Train
- The Ashgabat-Turkmenabat railway line connects the capital to the city, offering an affordable and scenic journey.
- Trains from Dashoguz and Mary also run regularly.
By Road
- Shared taxis and buses operate between Ashgabat and Turkmenabat (about 8-10 hours by road).
- The Turkmenabat-Farap border crossing allows entry from Uzbekistan (Bukhara) for those with valid visas.
Best Things to Do in Turkmenabat
1. Visit the Amu Darya Riverbanks
The Amu Darya River, one of Central Asia’s largest rivers, is a beautiful place to relax, take boat rides, and explore local fishing villages.
2. Explore Dayahatyn Caravanserai
- Located 170 km from Turkmenabat, this ancient Silk Road caravanserai is a well-preserved 11th-century structure used by traders and travelers.
- A UNESCO-listed site, it offers a glimpse into Turkmenistan’s rich trade history.
3. Walk Through the City Center
- The city square, fountains, and Soviet-style buildings provide a mix of history and modernity.
- Local markets offer a chance to see daily life and purchase Turkmen goods.
4. Check Out the Turkmenabat Bazaar
- This bustling market is great for buying spices, traditional textiles, handicrafts, and local snacks.
- It’s a fantastic place to experience Turkmen culture and hospitality.
5. Discover the Repetek Nature Reserve
- Located about 70 km from Turkmenabat, this reserve is home to desert wildlife, rare plants, and the Central Asian gazelle.
- It’s a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Best Accommodation in Turkmenabat
Luxury Hotels
- Jeyhun Hotel – The best 4-star hotel in the city, offering modern rooms, a restaurant, and good service.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Turkmenabat Hotel – A comfortable option with basic but clean amenities.
- Lebap Hotel – Conveniently located near the train station, offering decent rooms at moderate prices.
Budget Accommodations
- Guesthouses and small hotels are available, but they should be booked in advance due to limited options.
Cultural and Modern Attractions
1. Lebap Regional Museum
- Features archaeological artifacts, ancient manuscripts, and exhibits on Silk Road history.
- A great place to learn about Turkmen culture and traditions.
2. Soviet-Era Monuments
- Several Soviet-style statues and buildings still exist, reflecting the city’s past.
- The Lenin statue in one of the squares is a historical landmark.
3. Independence Park
- A peaceful green space with fountains, walking paths, and monuments.
- A good place to unwind after sightseeing.
Dining and Nightlife in Turkmenabat
Best Restaurants
- Jeyhun Restaurant – Serves Turkmen, Uzbek, and Russian cuisine in a cozy setting.
- Altyn Asyr Café – Great for traditional Turkmen dishes like shashlik, plov, and manti dumplings.
- Şazlyk Grill – Popular for grilled meats and Central Asian specialties.
Nightlife in Turkmenabat
- Nightlife is limited, with only a few bars and teahouses available.
- Some hotels have private lounges where guests can enjoy drinks.
- The best evening activity is a stroll along the Amu Darya River or city parks.
Day Trips from Turkmenabat
1. Ancient Merv (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Distance: 4-hour drive south.
- One of the most important cities of the Silk Road, Merv features ancient ruins, mausoleums, and historical forts.
2. Farap Border and Bukhara, Uzbekistan
- Distance: 1-hour drive to the Farap border, then another 2 hours to Bukhara.
- Bukhara, a UNESCO-listed Silk Road city, is known for its stunning Islamic architecture and vibrant bazaars.
3. Repetek Nature Reserve
- Distance: 1-hour drive.
- A unique desert ecosystem where visitors can see rare plants and desert animals like monitor lizards.
Getting Around Turkmenabat
- Taxis: The most common mode of transport. Negotiate the price before the ride.
- Buses: Limited routes, but useful for getting around the city.
- Walking: The city center is pedestrian-friendly.
- Car Rental: Available but requires special permits for foreigners.
Practical Tips for Visiting Turkmenabat
- Currency Exchange: Exchange USD to Manat at official exchange offices.
- Photography Restrictions: Avoid taking pictures of government buildings, military sites, and officials.
- Strict Laws: Follow local rules carefully—dress modestly and respect local customs.
- Safety: Turkmenabat is generally safe, but travel with a guide if required by visa regulations.
Conclusion
Turkmenabat is a hidden gem in Turkmenistan, offering a mix of Silk Road history, Soviet-era landmarks, and beautiful natural landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the Amu Darya River, Repetek Nature Reserve, or the ancient caravanserais, this city is a perfect gateway to Eastern Turkmenistan.
