The easiest and fastest way to get to the region is by flying into Ashgabat International Airport, which serves both domestic and international flights. From the airport, travellers can easily access the city of Ashgabat and explore the surrounding Akhal region.
Turkmenistan has a network of highways and railways, all leading to Ashgabat as its central hub.
Ashgabat is known for its grand architecture, such as the Ertuğrul Gazi Mosque and the Turkmenistan Independence Monument. Explore the ancient ruins of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the region’s rich historical significance.
Out in the Karakum desert, the eternal flame of the Darwaza gas crater lights up the night sky.
Kow Ata and Nokhur are two unique attractions in the Akhal region of Turkmenistan. Kow Ata is a mesmerising underground lake known for its mineral-rich warm waters and mystical ambiance. Nokhur, on the other hand, is a picturesque mountain village nestled in the Kopet Dag mountain range, known for its unusual traditions.
Damla, Erbent, and Akmolla are traditional desert settlements where travellers can immerse themselves in the nomadic lifestyle and witness the simplicity and resilience of the desert communities. The desert settlements also offer a chance to taste authentic desert foods like camel meat and milk cooked with desert herbs.
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The Akhal region is home to numerous archaeological sites that provide insights into the ancient civilisations that once lived in the area. Nisa, near Ashgabat, was the capital of the Parthian Empire.
One of the most important festivals celebrated in the Akhal region is Nowruz, the Persian New Year. It marks the beginning of spring and is a time of joy and renewal.
Weddings are celebrated with great joy and are often extravagant affairs. The ceremonies involve traditional rituals, music, and dance performances. Guests are treated to a feast of Turkmen dishes, and the festivities can last for several days.
The velayat is situated in the central part of Turkmenistan, with the Karakum desert to the north and the Kopet Dag mountain range to the south. The landscape features vast plains, low-lying hills, and occasional oases.
Summers are long and dry, with temperatures reaching highs of around 40°C (104°F). Winters are relatively mild, with temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F) during the day and dropping below freezing at night.
The Akhal region receives limited rainfall throughout the year. The majority of precipitation occurs during the winter months, while summers are generally dry and arid.
The Akhal region is known for its deposits of natural gas, which contribute to Turkmenistan’s overall energy production and export. The exploration and extraction of natural gas provide employment opportunities and contribute to the region’s economic growth.
Agriculture plays a crucial role in providing employment and contributing to the region’s food production. Within agriculture, the rearing of sheep, horses, cattle and camels is particularly important.
