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Jrny Socials

Wayfarer Anki’s Turkmenistan

Untold Central Asia

LED BY

Ankitha Rajendaran

TRIP DATES

29 Mar 25 - 03 Apr 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 1,550

OFF-BEAT

ADVENTURE

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Bookings Closed

Wayfarer Anki’s Turkmenistan: Untold Central Asia

TRIP DATES

29 Mar 25-03 Apr 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 1,550

Bookings Closed

About this Jrny

Discover the hidden gems of Turkmenistan on a Jrny curated by adventurer and storyteller Ankitha Rajendaran (@wayfarer_anki on Instagram).

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Turkmenistan, a land where ancient history, natural wonders, and architectural marvels converge. This immersive tour unveils the country's most captivating treasures, beginning in Ashgabat, a city that dazzles with its white marble buildings and golden domes – a testament to modern architectural ambition.

Your adventure takes you first to Kunya-Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage site that breathes life into centuries of Silk Road history. Here, intricate mausoleums and towering minarets stand as silent witnesses to the region's rich cultural heritage, inviting you to step back in time and explore the architectural and historical significance of this remarkable location.

The journey continues into the vast Karakum Desert, where the legendary Darvaza Gas Crater – known as the "Door to Hell" – awaits. As night falls, this mesmerizing inferno illuminates the desert landscape, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Spend an enchanting evening at a desert camp, savoring traditional Turkmen cuisine under a canopy of stars, immersing yourself in the raw beauty of this otherworldly environment.

Venture into the mountains to discover Nokhur, a village that preserves unique cultural traditions. Here, you'll experience the warmth of local hospitality, witness exceptional handmade crafts, and gain insight into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

This tour offers an unparalleled exploration of Turkmenistan – a destination that remains wonderfully undiscovered, promising travelers an authentic and extraordinary experience that blends natural wonders, historical depth, and cultural richness.

Ankitha, the curator, is a fearless traveller and storyteller with a passion for going where few others have gone. Journeying through 106 countries across all seven continents, she immerses herself in the world’s most remote, overlooked, and complex corners. Her travels and curated itineraries are about unearthing stories and the beauty of cultures that are often misunderstood or unseen.

Highlights

Discover Ashgabat’s magnificent monuments, grand boulevards, and beautiful parks, making it a Central Asian gem.
Visit Kunya-Urgench, an ancient Silk Road city and UNESCO World Heritage site.
See the Darvaza Gas Crater, famously known as the "Door to Hell." See the crater glow against the dark.
Spend the night under the stars, staying in traditional tents or yurts, and enjoy a rustic campfire dinner in the Karakum desert.
Explore Nokhur's hidden gems. Experience the warm hospitality, traditional dishes, and local's customs.

Led by Jrny Maestro

Ankitha Rajendaran

A fearless traveller and storyteller, with journeys across over 100 countries and 7 continents

21 Jrnys

26 Happy Travellers

Overview

Dates

29/03/25 - 03/04/25

Suggested Ages

Any

Duration

6 Days

Activity level

Moderate

Price per person

$ 1,550

Travel Style

comfort

Maximum Group size

Any

Itinerary

Sat 29 Mar

Arrive in Ashgabat

Sun 30 Mar

A day in Ashgabat

Mon 31 Mar

Into the desert

Tue 01 Apr

The mountain village of Nokhur

Wed 02 Apr

Nokhur to Ashgabat

Thu 03 Apr

Depart Ashgabat

From Wayfarer Anki’s Turkmenistan's Jrnys

The highlight was the entire group that I travelled with! I appreciate the pre-trip document that was shared, which included all the details about preparing for the trip and basic phrases in the language.

Alex Mathew

Wayfarer Anki’s Turkmenistan

Stay

CHECK IN 29 Mar

2 N

CHECK OUT 31 Mar

Sport Hotel

Ashgabat

CHECK IN 31 Mar

1 N

CHECK OUT 01 Apr

Yurts in Darvaza

Darvaza

CHECK IN 01 Apr

1 N

CHECK OUT 02 Apr

Homestay in Nokhur village

Nokhur village

Your Daily Itinerary

Sat 29 Mar

Arrive in Ashgabat

Welcome to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. Famous for its striking white marble architecture and grand, surreal cityscape, it has a Guinness World Record for the highest concentration of white marble buildings. Nestled between the Karakum Desert and Kopet Dag mountains, Ashgabat boasts a mix of modernity and traditional Turkmen culture.

Meals included: None

Activities

Meet and greet in Ashgabat

00:00 - 23:59

Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport (ASB). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs, look for the JrnyOn representative holding a placard with your name. Proceed to your hotel in a pre-arranged transfer vehicle.

Duration: 15 min
Distance: 12 km/ 7.4 miles

Sun 30 Mar

A day in Ashgabat

Discover the mesmerizing city of Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's dazzling capital renowned as the 'City of White Marble'. This extraordinary urban landscape blends architectural grandeur with unique cultural expression, creating a visual spectacle unlike any other in Central Asia.

Our city tour unveils Ashgabat's most iconic landmarks, beginning with the towering Independence Monument – a powerful symbol of Turkmenistan's national identity. The Neutrality Arch stands as another architectural marvel, representing the country's diplomatic stance and artistic ambition.
The magnificent Erdoğan Mosque showcases stunning Islamic architectural design, its intricate details and golden accents reflecting the rich spiritual heritage of the region. Elaborate marble structures, pristine boulevards, and meticulously maintained parks demonstrate the city's commitment to aesthetic perfection.

We also visit the Turkmen Carpet Museum, where visitors can explore the intricate art of carpet weaving – a deeply significant cultural tradition. Here, hand-woven carpets tell stories of Turkmen craftsmanship, featuring complex patterns and vibrant colors that have been passed down through generations.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Activities

Ashgabat city tour

09:00 - 17:00

Spend a day in Ashgabat, visiting the cities most iconic landmarks.

Mon 31 Mar

Into the desert

Begin your day with a morning flight to Dashoguz, gateway to northern Turkmenistan's historical treasures. From here, venture to Kunya-Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage site that breathes the essence of the ancient Silk Road.

This archaeological marvel reveals the rich legacy of the Khorezm Empire through its remarkable monuments. The Mausoleum of Turabek Khanum stands as an architectural masterpiece, its intricate geometric patterns telling stories of medieval Islamic artistry. The towering Kutlug Timur Minaret reaches dramatically into the sky, a testament to the engineering prowess of its time. Nearby, the Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum offers a poignant glimpse into the region's royal history.

After exploring these historic ruins, prepare for an epic 7-hour desert journey into the heart of the Karakum. As evening approaches, the Darvaza Gas Crater emerges – a surreal, perpetually burning pit nicknamed the "Door to Hell". This extraordinary natural phenomenon illuminates the desert night with its otherworldly glow.

Spend the night in traditional tents or yurts in the desert, while a bonfire creates the perfect setting to savor local cuisine under a vast, star-studded sky. This is Turkmenistan at its most raw and captivating.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Activities

Flight: Ashgabat to Dashoguz

09:00 - 10:00

Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight from Ashgabat (airport code ASB) to Dashoguz, (airport code TAZ), a city in the northern part of Turkmenistan.

Duration: 1 hour

Explore Kunya-Urgench

12:00 - 15:00

Kunya-Urgench is a UNESCO World heritage site. It was once a vital Silk Road hub and capital of the Khorezm Empire. See the Mausoleum of Turabek Khanum, Kutlug Timur Minaret and Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum.

Darvaza Gas Crater

16:00 - 18:00

Drive across the Karakum desert to see the Darvaza Gas Crater, famously known as the "Door to Hell." Witness the mesmerising sight of the crater burning bright against the dark desert sky. Capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience as you watch the flames dance and illuminate the surrounding dunes.

Duration: 7 hours
Distance: 274 km/ 170 miles

Tue 01 Apr

The mountain village of Nokhur

Journey across the mesmerizing desert landscapes towards Nokhur Village. En route, pause at the stunning Geok Depe Mosque, its turquoise domes rising magnificently against the stark, arid terrain – a breathtaking architectural jewel that captures the region's spiritual and aesthetic essence.

The road to Nokhur winds through dramatic mountain passes, revealing a landscape that transforms from desert expanses to rugged alpine terrain. This remote mountain village represents a living museum of traditional Turkmen culture, virtually untouched by modern influences.

Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed into a cozy local homestay, experiencing the legendary hospitality of the Nokhur people. The evening offers a chance to explore the village's hidden treasures – small workshops where skilled artisans continue centuries-old craft traditions. Watch local craftspeople create intricate handmade items, each piece telling a story of cultural resilience and artistic heritage.

As night falls, immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this mountain community.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

The mountain village of Nokhur - Day 4 image

Activities

Geok Depe Mosque

11:00 - 12:00

Depart from Darvaza and drive through the desert landscapes towards Nokhur Village. Explore Geok Depe Mosque, an architectural marvel with turquoise domes that stands out against the arid landscape. Learn about the mosque’s historical significance and its role in local culture.

Duration: 5 hours
Distance: 393 km/ 244 miles

Explore Nokhur Village

15:00 - 18:00

Take a leisurely stroll through the village, and interact with the locals. Discover Nokhur’s unique customs, visit small workshops where artisans craft traditional items, and perhaps participate in preparing a local meal with your hosts.

Wed 02 Apr

Nokhur to Ashgabat

Immerse yourself in Nokhur's rich cultural landscape during a morning of exploration. Wander through ancient cemeteries adorned with distinctive ram-horned gravestones, a unique symbol deeply rooted in local traditions. Visit silk weaving workshops where artisans preserve centuries-old crafting techniques, their nimble fingers creating intricate textiles that tell stories of generations past.

Scenic mountain trails offer breathtaking vistas of the Kopet Dag range, inviting you to capture the raw beauty of Turkmenistan's mountainous terrain. Each step reveals the rugged magnificence of this remote region.

In the afternoon, journey back to Ashgabat, pausing at the historic Anau Mosque Ruins. These archaeological remnants provide a fascinating glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of the region, speaking volumes about the civilizations that once thrived here.

Your final evening in Ashgabat is yours to spend at leisure. Relax at the hotel or indulge in some last-minute shopping before savouring a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, capturing the final moments of this extraordinary Turkmenistan adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Activities

Nokhur Village exploration

09:00 - 12:00

Discover hidden gems such as ancient cemeteries with unusual gravestones decorated with ram horns, reflecting the Nokhur people's ancestral beliefs. Participate in a silk weaving workshop, where you can see traditional handicrafts that have been passed down through generations. Walk scenic mountain trails that reveal breathtaking views of the Kopet Dag range.

Drive from Nokhur to Ashgabat

13:00 - 15:00

If time permits, visit Anau Mosque Ruins on the way, a site steeped in history that offers a glimpse into the architectural styles of the past.

Duration: 2 hours
Distance: 152km/ 94.5 miles

Thu 03 Apr

Depart Ashgabat

Early in the morning, head to Ashgabat International Airport (ASB), concluding your extraordinary Turkmenistan expedition. The journey ends, but the memories will endure – a tapestry of white marble cities, ancient Silk Road ruins, desert's fiery spectacle, and mountain village traditions. You'll carry home not just photographs, but a profound connection to this remarkable, less-traveled corner of Central Asia.

Meals included: Breakfast

Activities

Depart Ashgabat

00:00 - 23:59

Transfer to Ashgabat airport (airport code ASB) for your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the hidden wonders of Turkmenistan.

Duration: 16 minutes
Distance: 12 km/ 7.4 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

It is if you seek adventure and the path less travelled, if you have an adventurous spirit and love exploring remote destinations. This trip is for you if you love camping and backpacking. This is not your typical vacation, the accommodations in Darvaza and Nokhur village will be in basic tents and home stays with shared rooms and common toilets. You'll enjoy this trip if you love experiences and to explore with others; whether it's trying local cuisine or the remote wilderness.

No, she will not be travelling. This itinerary and experiences are curated by Ankitha, but the trip will be led by local experts.

Ashgabat International Airport (ASB), is the primary international airport serving Turkmenistan. It is the main gateway for travellers arriving in the capital city.

A Letter of Invitation (LOI) is a document required to obtain a tourist visa to Turkmenistan. With a pre-approved LOI, you can get the visa on arrival at the Turkmen border or at Ashgabat airport. Visa processing fees are 2-3 weeks.

We cannot guarantee approval of your visa support by the Turkmen authorities. In case of a denied visa support you prepayment is refundable in full, but we will charge a service fee of USD 50 per person + bank charges.

- International flights

- Visa fees USD 90 per person (payable at the border)

- Government arrival tax - USD 15 per person + mandatory COVID-19 swab test - USD 29

- Video and photo camera charges during sightseeing

Adequate travel Insurance is mandatory and is a condition of your contract with us. You are responsible for ensuring that you have personal travel insurance with protection for the full duration of the tour. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control. If you would like assistance with your travel insurance, please write to [email protected].

There are no mandatory vaccinations specified for the tour. Check with your healthcare provider if you require any specific vaccinations for travel.

Turkmenistan's urban exploration involves moderate walking, suitable for various fitness levels. Outdoor excursions in the desert may require a higher level of fitness.

There are no activities scheduled on Day 1 of the trip. So you can arrive anytime. Hotel check-in time varies and generally will be around 2:00 pm.

Yes, all JrnyOn tours include group airport transfers for arrival and departure between the airport and the tour hotel. In case of Social or Jrny Maestro trips, these transfers will be shared with other members of your tour.

You can depart anytime. Generally there are no activities on the last day. The hotel check out time is usually 11am or 12noon.

20kg check in luggage and 5kg hand carry.

The itinerary involves a long 7 hour drive from Kunya-Urgench to the Darvaza Gas Crater, And a 5 hour Drive to Nokhur village. Travellers should verify the specific transportation modes and durations with the tour organiser, ensuring they are well-prepared for any potential long drives during the tour.

As is the case in any Central Asian country, meat is a staple. You may have limited options for some meals. Some local dishes in Turkmenistan are vegetarian, such as vegetable stews.

Turkmenistan has a cold semi-arid climate. Weather in Turkmenistan in spring is the best for traveling. In March, temperature reaches +15° С during the daytime and +35°С in April. The temperature falls to 5-6° С at night in the mountains, so warm clothes are a must.

- A 30% advance payment is required to confirm the booking.

- Balance full payment to be done 90 days before the date of travel

- Till 91 days, 10% cancellation charges

- From 90 - 46 days 30% cancellation charges

- From 45 days onwards 100% cancellation charges.

- In case of visa rejection we will process a full tour refund, less visa processing & credit card charges

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