A short trip to Turkmenistan and the most fascinating facts I learned
- Through My Eyes
- 2 days ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 16 hours ago
I recently had the chance to visit Turkmenistan on a short business trip, and I was genuinely impressed by the country. The “White City” instantly caught my eye. Despite everything I had heard before traveling, the experience turned out surprisingly positive. There was something unique about the atmosphere, the architecture, and the culture that made Turkmenistan far more interesting than I expected.
Ashgabat is called the White City because of its endless white marble buildings. At first glance, it feels surreal, almost like stepping onto a movie set. The streets are wide and remarkably clean, the monuments are massive, and the overall aesthetic is unlike anything I have seen elsewhere.
Before my trip, I had only heard strict and unusual things about Turkmenistan, making me unsure of what to expect. Yet the reality was pleasant. The city felt safe, organised, and visually impressive. The people I met were polite and respectful, and daily life seemed peaceful. It is a place full of contrasts, but also full of small details that make it interesting for any traveller curious about discovering hidden destinations. If you plan to visit Turkmenistan or simply want to learn more about this unique country, here are some fascinating facts that make it stand out.
Ashgabat is filled with white marble buildings
The capital city holds the Guinness World Record for having the highest concentration of white marble buildings in the world. Almost every government building, hotel, and residential block is covered in bright, polished marble. This gives Ashgabat its nickname, the White City, and creates a striking contrast against the blue sky. It feels clean, organised, and almost futuristic.
Ashgabat holds several Guinness World Records
Turkmenistan loves Guinness World Records. Beyond its white marble architecture, Turkmenistan holds several world records. These include the largest indoor Ferris wheel, the biggest architectural star, and the largest fountain complex. The country takes pride in monumental structures and unusual achievements, which are part of its vision to create a modern, eye-catching capital.
Most cars in Ashgabat are white
White is considered a lucky colour in Turkmenistan, and for several years other colours were discouraged in the capital. The result is a city filled almost entirely with white vehicles, which adds to the uniform and polished look of Ashgabat.
Explore Turkmenistan’s UNESCO Treasures
Beyond the gleaming marble of Ashgabat, Turkmenistan holds a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that reveal its deep history. The ancient city of Merv was a thriving Silk Road hub, with ruins that tell stories spanning thousands of years. At Kunya‑Urgench, you’ll find majestic mausoleums, mosques, and a towering minaret, reflecting the region’s medieval importance. The Parthian Fortresses of Nisa showcase the remnants of the Parthian Empire’s capital, while the Silk Roads: Zarafshan‑Karakum Corridor traces historic trade routes cutting across deserts and oases. Even the Turan Desert holds UNESCO recognition for its remarkable natural landscapes. Visiting these sites will give you a glimpse into the blend of ancient civilization, monumental architecture, and natural beauty that makes Turkmenistan truly unique.
The country has one of the strictest visa systems
Turkmenistan remains one of the hardest countries in the world to enter, which makes any visit feel exclusive. Tourists usually need a local guide and a pre-arranged itinerary, although transit visas are possible. For business trips, invitations must be approved in advance. This strict process is one reason why Turkmenistan travel feels so different.
Turkmen carpets are world famous
Carpets are not just traditional crafts; they are national symbols. Each region has its own patterns and colours, and the designs are protected by law. You even see carpet motifs on buildings, decorations, and the national emblem.
The Darvaza Gas Crater is known as the ‘Door to Hell’
One of the most famous attractions in Turkmenistan is a giant burning gas crater in the desert. It has been on fire for over forty years. Even though I did not visit it during my short trip, it remains one of the most iconic and unusual places in Central Asia.
Strict dress code for men and women
Traditional dress remains an important part of Turkmenistan’s culture:
Women often wear long, colourful dresses with embroidered details, paired with headscarves or traditional accessories. Many women also have long, neatly braided hair.
Men usually wear simple, dark-coloured trousers and shirts, and for formal events they may wear traditional telpeks (large sheepskin hats) or embroidered jackets.
Even in modern settings, people follow these dress norms, which reflect national pride and cultural identity.
Turkmenistan has some of the largest natural gas reserves in the world
Energy plays a major role in the country’s economy. These reserves also explain why the country invests heavily in infrastructure and monumental architecture.
Oguz Khan Star: A National emblem everywhere
The Oguz Khan star is a national emblem of Turkmenistan and more than just decoration. Rooted in the country’s identity and modern architecture, it reflects ancient Turkmen and Turkic motifs, symbolizing peace, unity, cultural identity, and continuity with heritage. Its motif appears everywhere in Ashgabat, on buildings, street lamps, fences, carpets, monuments, and public infrastructure, serving as a visual marker of national pride and a reminder of Turkmenistan’s effort to blend tradition with modern urban design.
The book written by a president: the Ruhnama
One of the most unusual facts about Turkmenistan is the Ruhnama, a spiritual and cultural guide written by former President Saparmurat Niyazov. For many years, the book played a central role in education and national identity. There is even a giant mechanical version of the Ruhnama in Ashgabat that used to open like a monument. It remains one of the most unique and symbolic creations in the country’s recent history.
The country has a deep connection to horses
Turkmenistan is home to the Akhal-Teke horse breed, known for its metallic golden coat and incredible stamina. These horses are national symbols and appear on emblems, statues, and artwork. The breed is one of the oldest and most admired in Central Asia.
The Walk of Health (Path of Health)
Just outside Ashgabat, the country built a long walking path on the mountainside called the Walk of Health. It stretches for many kilometers and was originally created to encourage fitness and healthy living. It is a popular place for locals who enjoy hiking and offers beautiful views of the White City below. The path is unique and forms an interesting part of Turkmenistan’s modern history.
You will see very little advertising
Unlike many cities where billboards and posters dominate the streets, Ashgabat has almost none, giving the city a clean, almost futuristic feel.
Social media access
One of the most surprising things for visitors is the lack of social media access. Popular platforms like Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter), and WhatsApp are usually blocked. Even internet access in general is limited or heavily filtered. Because of this, life in Ashgabat feels quiet, focused, and disconnected from the online world.
Restrictions on photography & filming
When visiting Turkmenistan, it’s important to be mindful of filming and photography rules. Taking photos is generally allowed in public areas, but it is strictly prohibited near government buildings, military installations, and certain monuments. Always look for signs or ask for permission if you are unsure. Using drones is heavily restricted, and some areas may require special authorization for filming.
The quiet nights in Ashgabat
Visitors often mention how calm the city becomes after sunset. With minimal traffic, no neon advertising, and strict order, the atmosphere is peaceful and sometimes surreal.
Life in Turkmenistan moves at a slower pace. Traditional patterns, textiles, and carpets are everywhere and add colour and warmth to the otherwise bright marble city. Hospitality is an important part of their culture, and even during a short visit, you can feel that people value respect, hospitality, and politeness. Even with limited interaction, you can feel how much they appreciate courtesy and professionalism.
The biggest surprise was how easy and pleasant the trip felt. The city was clean, organised, and visually impressive. I expected something completely different, but what I found was a place full of character, strange history, and hidden beauty.
If you ever get the chance to visit Turkmenistan, here are a few simple tips:
Turkmenistan remains among the hardest countries to visit: tourists need an approved itinerary and must travel with a licensed guide. Independent travel is seldom allowed.
Make sure you respect local rules and traditions.
Keep an open mind because the country is very different from anything you may have experienced.
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