A lunar landscape with craters of cultural activity.
The most curious of the Central Asian republics, Turkmenistan resembles an Arab Gulf state without the money. It's the second largest Central Asian country, but four-fifths of it consist of an inhospitable lunar-like desert called the Karakum which conceals unexploited oil and gas deposits.
Travellers need permits to visit areas close to the Afghan, Uzbek and Iranian borders. Ashgabat, Merv and the seaport of Turkmenbashi are not in restricted areas. Any travel to the regions bordering Afghanistan should be reconsidered due to the unstable security situation and the presence of landmines.
severity: Mid-level alert
Turkmenistan
5,000,000
Name: Manat
Code: TMM
Symbol: M
220V 50Hz
Essential: Russian, Turkmen
GMT/UTC +5
+993
Metric
article by Peter Broomfield, January 2007
Turkmenistan makes the neighbouring 'Stans seem straight. Where else in the world can you celebrate Melon Day? You'd be hard pressed to find another 'Stan so downright bizarre. Read the full article ›
Tags: Turkmenistan
Advertisement
Travel insurance. Be covered by our recommended partner.
Compare & book flights from 100's of domestic & international airlines.
Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›
Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›
Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.