DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN ASHGABAT – THE WHITE MARBLE CITY
Namaste & Welcome to Turkmenistan!
- Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport (early morning arrival at 01:50 hrs). The stunning falcon-wing-shaped terminal welcomes you in traditional Turkmen style.
- After immigration and customs, meet your local tour representative.
- Early check-in arranged at Hotel Mizan 3* for rest and relaxation (as per Indian travel standards).
- Freshen up and enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
- Rest time until afternoon (recommended due to early morning arrival).
Post-lunch Ashgabat Sightseeing Tour
- Visit major city attractions:
- Monument to Magtymguly Pyragy
- Independence Monument
- Neutrality Arch
- Ertugrul Gazi Mosque (inspired by Istanbul's Blue Mosque)
- Yyldyz Hotel
- Wedding Palace
- Kipchak Mosque
- Dinner at a traditional Turkmen restaurant
- Enjoy a night tour of Ashgabat, a beautifully lit white-marble city.
- Return to hotel & overnight stay.
Note: Time difference & early arrival may cause mild fatigue – rest accordingly.
DAY 2: ASHGABAT – GEOKDEPE – NISA – DARVAZA CRATER
A Day of History, Heritage & Desert Adventure
- Morning breakfast at the hotel.
Excursion to Geokdepe
- Explore the historic Geokdepe Fortress – the site of the Turkmen resistance against Russian conquest.
- Visit Saparmurat Hajji Mosque and the Geokdepe National Museum.
- Photo stops and panoramic views of the area.
Visit Nisa – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Explore the ruins of Old Nisa, the ancient capital of the Parthian Empire.
Afternoon: Journey to Darvaza Gas Crater – "The Gates of Hell"
- Travel across the Karakum Desert by 4x4 jeeps.
- Reach Darvaza by evening – a truly surreal sight of an eternally burning gas crater.
Desert Experience
- Stay in traditional Turkmen yurts – feel the nomadic lifestyle.
- Enjoy a bonfire dinner with authentic shashlik (kebab), fresh lavash, and local tea.
- Stargazing and storytelling under the open desert sky.
Photo Tips: Capture magical sunset and night shots at the crater!
DAY 3: DARVAZA – MARY – ANCIENT CITY OF MERV (UNESCO SITE)
- Early morning picnic breakfast in the desert.
- Begin your journey toward the city of Mary via Turkmenistan’s modern Autobahn highway.
Explore Merv – The Jewel of the Silk Road
- Visit the ancient cities of:
- Erk-kala (citadel)
- Gyaur-kala (residential and trade area)
- Sultan-kala, Abdullah Khan-kala, and Abdullah Khan-tepe
- Walk through ruins, forts, and archaeological marvels dating back centuries.
Evening: Traditional Cultural Show in Merv
- Witness local dances, folk music, and authentic costumes.
- Enjoy traditional Turkmen cuisine served in local style.
- Transfer to Mary City, dinner at a local cafe, and overnight at a hotel.
DAY 4: MARY – TURKMEN ALABAI BREEDING CENTRE – ASHGABAT
- Morning breakfast at the hotel.
- Depart for Ashgabat via Autobahn highway.
Visit the Famous Turkmen Alabai Center
- Learn about the Alabai dog, a proud symbol of Turkmen identity.
- Interaction and photo opportunities with these majestic creatures.
- Light lunch provided at the center.
Ashgabat City Highlights
- Turkmen Carpet Museum – a dazzling showcase of world-famous handmade carpets.
- National Museum of Turkmenistan – covers 5,000 years of history.
- Explore the White Marble City, modern avenues, and landmark structures.
Shopping at Russian Bazaar – perfect for souvenirs, snacks, and local spices.
Dinner at a popular national restaurant featuring dishes like pilaf, manti, shurpa, and more.
- Overnight stay at Sport Hotel 4*, Ashgabat.
DAY 5: FREE TIME | MODERN ASHGABAT EXPLORATION | FAREWELL
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Free time until 11:30 AM for leisure or optional shopping at Berkarar Mall.
- Lunch at your own discretion (option to try international cuisine or local food courts).
Transfer to the airport for your international flight.
Bid farewell to the land of white marble, rich traditions, and desert wonders.
Thank you for traveling with us. Namaste — until we meet again!
