Turkmenistan
“Celebrate the Carpet Festival: A Legacy of Turkmen Carpets & Weaving”
May 21 - May 31, 2026
The Tour is led by Deniz Coşkun, Tour Lecturer
& Local Licensed Guides
Tour Introduction:
Join us on a captivating journey through Turkmenistan, where the rich heritage of carpet weaving is an integral part of daily life and culture, offering an immersive experience and insider access to one of the world’s most cherished and unique traditions. Explore the country’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, discovering the intricate artistry and centuries-old techniques that have made Turkmen rugs a symbol of cultural pride and mastery. Visit master artisans in their private workshops, witness live weaving demonstrations, and gain a deeper understanding of the profound cultural, social, and historical significance behind every design, knot, and motif. Along the way, experience the beauty of other weaving traditions, including the delicate art of Keteni silk weaving and the intricate process of embroidery, showcasing the diverse craftsmanship that defines Turkmen textiles.
Tour Itinerary:
-
Welcome to Turkmenistan! Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport in the early hours, where you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel for an early check-in. Take some time to rest and refresh before starting your adventure. After a leisurely breakfast and a relaxed morning, we begin exploring Ashgabat, the capital famed for its gleaming white marble architecture and unique blend of modern grandeur and Soviet-era heritage. The name Ashgabat, derived from Persian, means “The City of Love.” Our journey starts at the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, a solemn tribute to the nation’s heroes and the victims of WWII, the Battle of Geokdepe, and the devastating 1948 earthquake. Next, we visit the Bagt Koshgi (Palace of Happiness), offering stunning panoramic views. We then embark on a scenic drive through Ashgabat’s grand avenues, passing the Monument of the Constitution, the Alem Ferris Wheel, the towering Magtymguly Monument, and the Monument of Neutrality, crowned with a golden statue of the country’s first president. Continuing through the Park of Independence, we also see the Monument of the Gigantic Book "Ruhnama", the Ruhyyet Palace, Parliament, and Olympic City. Conclude the day with a special welcome dinner, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Ashgabat, the perfect introduction to Turkmenistan. Overnight at Yyldyz 5* or a similar Hotel.
Note: The hotel is available for early morning check in on May 21.
-
Today is one of the most captivating days of our journey, dedicated to Turkmenistan’s rich textile heritage. Begin at the National Carpet Museum, home to 8,000 exhibits, including one of the world’s largest handwoven carpets (301 sq. m, a Guinness World Record). Discover ancient weaving techniques, symbolic patterns, and the meticulous restoration of historic carpets. A standout exhibit is the handwoven replica of the 2,500-year-old Pazyryk carpet, recreated by master weaver Orazgul Eyeberdyeva. Originally found in Russia’s Altai Mountains and preserved in permafrost, this masterpiece dates back to the 5th-4th centuries BC. While the original is housed in the Hermitage Museum, this replica showcases the deep historical ties of Turkmen weaving. The museum also features restoration workshops and a store where visitors can purchase authentic carpets with official export documentation. After lunch at a local restaurant, immerse yourself in the delicate art of Turkmen embroidery with a hands-on master class at the Mahirli Zenan Showroom. Learn from skilled artisans about the cultural significance of each stitch while admiring exquisite handcrafted garments and accessories. This day, a true highlight of our program, offers a rare opportunity to experience the living traditions of Turkmen craftsmanship. Overnight at Yyldyz 5* or a similar Hotel.
-
We start the day early, picking up breakfast boxes before our morning flight to Mary. Upon arrival, a short scenic drive takes us to Ancient Merv, once a major Silk Road hub and the capital of the Persian and Seljuk Empires. Our guided tour unveils Merv’s legendary past, visiting the grand Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the sacred Yusuf Hamadani Mosque, and Erk Gala, the city’s oldest settlement dating back to the 6th century BCE. We explore the Ashabs Mausoleums, the Ancient Ice House, the towering Great and Small Gyz Kala, and the Mohammad ibn Zayd Mausoleum, each site revealing layers of history and architectural brilliance. In the afternoon, we enjoy an immersive cultural experience at Gadymy Turkmen Ojak, an ethno guesthouse where we savor freshly baked Turkmen bread, witness traditional cuisine preparation, embroidery, wool spinning, and carpet making. We’ll also enjoy a folk-dance performance espacially organized for the group. Returning to Mary, we visit the Mary State History Museum, where artifacts from Ancient Merv and Gonur Depe provide deeper insight into the region’s past. In the late afternoon, we transfer to the airport for our flight back to Ashgabat, concluding a day filled with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Overnight at Yyldyz 5* or a similar Hotel.
-
Enjoy a relaxed morning with breakfast at the hotel before setting off to explore the Altyn Asyr Bazaar, the largest open-air market in Turkmenistan. Formerly known as Tolkuchka Bazaar, this bustling Sunday market offers a fascinating glimpse into local life, where traders sell everything from handwoven carpets, jewelry, and traditional clothing to fresh produce, spices, and even livestock. Stroll through the lively stalls, test your bargaining skills, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Turkmen commerce. Next, visit the State Museum of History and Ethnography, home to an extensive collection of archaeological treasures, Silk Road relics, ancient manuscripts, and traditional costumes. This remarkable museum offers a deeper understanding of Turkmenistan’s rich cultural heritage, making for a perfect conclusion to the day’s exploration. Free afternoon at lesiure or a lecture at hotel by Group Leader. Dinner at the local resturant in Ashgbat and overnight at Yyldyz 5* or a similar Hotel.
-
Today is one of the highlights of our tour, offering a deep dive into Turkmenistan’s rich traditions. After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive westward to Gyzylarbat, a town famed for preserving the art of Turkmen carpet weaving. Upon arrival, a welcoming local family—masters of this centuries-old craft—introduces us to their private carpet workshop. Here, we witness the intricate process of handmade carpet production, from dyeing natural fibers to weaving elaborate patterns, offering a rare glimpse into the artistry behind Turkmenistan’s world-famous carpets. We then enjoy a homemade lunch with our hosts, savoring traditional Turkmen dishes. In the afternoon, we continue our journey into the Kopet Dag Mountains, heading to Nokhur, a hidden gem known for its breathtaking landscapes and deep-rooted traditions. This remote mountain village, home to the Nokhuris, is believed to be descended from the soldiers of Alexander the Great, preserving a unique culture and folklore. As the sun sets, we experience warm Nokhuri hospitality, joining a local family for a traditional Turkmen dinner. In this intimate setting, we share stories over home-cooked dishes, immersing ourselves in the customs and timeless charm of this extraordinary mountain community. Overnight at the local Guest House.
-
After a traditional breakfast in a local home, we’ll learn about the art of “keteni” production, a traditional silk-weaving craft used for ceremonial clothing. Visit one of the last remaining silk-weaving workshops in Turkmenistan and witness this delicate art firsthand. Before leaving Nokhur, we’ll visit the ancient Great Chinar Tree, believed to be over 800 years old, a sacred site where locals gather for blessings and reflection. On our return to Ashgabat, we’ll stop in Geokdepe village, home of the legendary Akhal-Teke horses. At the Geokdepe Stud Farm, we’ll meet these majestic creatures, learn about their ancient lineage, and hear stories of their importance in Turkmen history. Geokdepe is also the site of the Siege of Geokdepe, where the Teke tribe resisted the Russian invasion in 1881. In the evening, enjoy a traditional and authentic Turkmen dinner prepared for the group, followed by a soulful performance on the dutar, a two-stringed instrument, offering a true taste of Turkmen folk music. Return to Ashgabat for an overnight stay at Yyldyz 5* or a similar Hotel.
-
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and transferring to the airport for a morning flight to Dashoguz. Upon arrival, we embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to Kunya Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Khorezmshah Empire during the 12th and 13th centuries. To begin our exploration, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before starting our guided tour of this remarkable site. Once a key Silk Road hub, Kunya Urgench was a center of learning, science, and trade, and despite being devastated by the Mongols in 1221, its architectural gems have endured. Highlights of the tour include the Turabek Khanum Mausoleum, a Timurid-era masterpiece, the towering Kutlug Timur Minaret (the tallest in Central Asia), and the Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, known for its unique conical dome. We’ll also visit the Kyrk-Mollah Hill, believed to be the site of al-Mamun’s Academy of Sciences, the Mausoleum of Il-Arslan, and the sacred Najmeddin Kubra and Piryar Wali Shrines. After our exploration, we’ll transfer back to Dashoguz for a relaxed evening at the hotel, reflecting on the rich history and stunning architecture of Kunya Urgench.
-
After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our day exploring Turkmenistan’s rich ceramic traditions before venturing into the Karakum Desert to witness the legendary Darvaza Gas Crater. Our morning takes us to Shavat, Dashoguz, where we visit the workshop of renowned Turkmen ceramist Bakhtiyar Khodjaniyazov, a master of Khorezmian pottery. Inside his house-museum, a stunning example of traditional Turkmen architecture, we admire his private collection of handcrafted ceramics and learn about his role in restoring the majolica tiles of the UNESCO-listed Najmeddin Kubra Mausoleum. After lunch at a local restaurant, we set off for Darvaza, journeying deep into the Karakum Desert in sturdy 4WD vehicles. Upon arrival, we marvel at the blazing Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the “Gateway to Hell”. As the sun sets, we enjoy a nomad-style dinner, featuring traditional kebabs and aromatic tea brewed in a tunche pot, while the fiery glow of the crater lights up the night.For an authentic Turkmen experience, we spend the night in traditional yurts known as Gara Oy (“Black House”), surrounded by the vast, silent desert under a starlit sky—an unforgettable end to a day of culture and adventure.
-
Wake up to breakfast at the yurt camp, taking one last moment to admire the surreal landscape of Darvaza, where the fiery depths of the crater contrast with the endless dunes of the Karakum Desert. Midway through our journey back to Ashgabat, we stop at Bokurdak, a small desert village where centuries-old traditions remain intact. Here, we get a rare glimpse into rural Turkmen life, exploring homes made of unfired clay bricks, visiting authentic yurts, and learning about nomadic craftsmanship. A local family welcomes us with freshly brewed Turkmen tea and snacks, sharing stories of their heritage and the deep symbolism woven into their textiles, carpets, and wall hangings. In the afternoon, we arrive in Ashgabat and check in at the Yyldyz Hotel, where you can unwind after the adventurous desert journey. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. Optional activities:
Wander through the Russian Bazaar, a lively market filled with spices, dried fruits, and handcrafted souvenirs.
Visit the Fine Arts Museum, showcasing a rich collection of Turkmen paintings, sculptures, and traditional crafts.
Stroll along Ashgabat’s grand boulevards, admiring its ornate architecture and illuminated fountains.
After days of adventure, enjoy a peaceful evening in Turkmenistan’s capital, reflecting on the unforgettable journey through its deserts and traditions. Overnight stay at Yyldyz 5* or a similar Hotel.
-
Today marks the culmination of our journey as we attend the Turkmen Carpet Festival, a vibrant celebration of the nation’s most treasured craft. Before the festivities, we travel to Bagir village to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Nisa Fortress, the ancient capital of the Parthian Empire. Set against the Kopet-Dag Mountains, these ruins offer a glimpse into the grandeur of one of history’s most powerful civilizations. Returning to Ashgabat, we immerse ourselves in the Turkmen Carpet Festival, showcasing exquisite handwoven carpets, intricate patterns, and live weaving demonstrations. Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, Turkmen carpets embody centuries of tradition and artistry. The afternoon is free to visit local carpet shops, browsing handmade rugs ranging from antique treasures to contemporary designs—a perfect opportunity for an authentic Turkmen souvenir. In the evening, we celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner, featuring traditional Turkmen cuisine and a vibrant folk show, a fitting tribute to the rich heritage and warm hospitality of Turkmenistan. Overnight stay at Yyldyz 5* or a similar Hotel.
-
After breakfast in the morning, you will be transferred to Ashgabat International Airport for your international flight home. End of the service.
Land Tour Price: (Excludes international airfare, taxes & fuel surcharges)
Group Size: Minimum 8, Maximum 14 Participants
Tour Price: $4,990 Per Person Based on Double Occupancy
Single Room Supplement: $650 Per Person (Solo travelers may request a shared room. If no roommate is available, the single supplement fee will apply)
Booking Details: This tour is priced and operated based on a group arrangement, requiring a minimum of 8 participants and a maximum capacity of 14 travelers. To confirm your booking, submit a signed Tour Booking Form along with a $1,000 per person deposit. Final payment is due 90 days before departure. The Initial Deposit Guarantee allows cancellations up to 91 days before departure. Please refer to the full Terms & Conditions for details on refunds and cancellation policies. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re happy to help!
Why is Travel Insurance Important: In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact on your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer Travelex Insurance protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For more information on the available plans contact Travelex Insurance at 1-800-228-9792 and reference our location number 22-0359.
Tour Includes:
One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
Final documents tour packet will be mailed.
Letter of Invitation for Turkmenistan Visa on arrival.
Group arrival/departure transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants.
Ten (10) nights of accommodation (7 nights at 5* Boutique hotels, 1 night at guest house and 1 night at traditional yurt and 1 night at 3* hotel as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned coach transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
4x4 Jeeps for May 25, May 26, May 28, May 29
Services of Tour Lecturer from the U.S. and local English-speaking guides throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites and activities in the itinerary.
All meals mentioned in the itinerary (10 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 6 dinners).
2 Domestic flights: ASG – MRY – ASG, ASG - DAS
Porterage at the hotels.
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, and waiters.
Tour Does Not Include:
International Round Airfare (Turkish Airlines offers direct and convenient flights).
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Personal expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, items from hotels mini bars, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (Recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodation, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Baggage handling at airports in the US and overseas.
Any item not mentioned as included.
Turkmenistan Visa Fee on arrival (Approx: $55-$77).
Video Camera fees at the historical, archeological sites and local museums.
Tour Fitness Level:
Moderate: Suitable for travelers of all ages in good health, with a moderate level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. The tour will include some long walking days and periods of standing while exploring various sites. Some attractions may involve walking on uneven terrain or navigating steep staircases. Expect a few elevation changes, a well-paced but busy schedule, and several long overland drives. If you have any questions or would like more details about the trip, we’re happy to discuss it with you.
Lodging Level:
Luxurious (4/5-stars): Stay in stylish, international-style hotels that offer a warm, personalized experience. Enjoy prime locations, spacious rooms, and luxurious en-suite bathrooms. You’ll have access to great amenities, including room service, on-site dining, fitness centers, and more—all designed to make your stay comfortable and relaxing.
Guest Houses/Yurts: For a truly authentic experience, you’ll stay in simple, clean guesthouses or yurt camps that offer a unique opportunity to connect with local cultures and stunning landscapes.
Visa & Passport:
U.S. passport holders must obtain a visa to enter Turkmenistan. A letter of invitation (LOI) approved by the Turkmenistan State Migration Service is required before applying for a visa. With an approved LOI, travelers can obtain a visa on arrival. Further details regarding the visa application process will be provided 60 days before the trip. Ensuring that the correct and valid visa is obtained remains the sole responsibility of the traveler. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the last day of the trip and must contain sufficient blank pages for visa stamps.
Mr. Deniz Coşkun, Tour Lecturer:
Deniz Coşkun’s journey into the world of oriental carpets began in 1992 while still a high school student in Istanbul. During his university studies in chemical engineering, he deepened his knowledge of hand weaving and natural dyeing, laying the foundation for his lifelong passion. After earning an MBA, he pursued his dream of specializing in nomadic, semi-nomadic, and rural textile weaving traditions, studying with scholars and expert collectors before immersing himself in the ethnic Turkmen tribal weaving heritage of Central Anatolia and Central Asia. A frequent speaker at international textile events and private collector events, and a mentor in weaving and natural dyeing, Deniz has dedicated his career to preserving and promoting traditional textile arts. Today, he shares his expertise by organizing cultural and textile-focused programs in Turkey and leading special interest and themed tours in Central Asia dedicated to carpet and weaving heritage, offering participants a deeper connection to the region’s rich textile traditions and his expertise in Turkmen rugs, known for their distinct styles, motifs, and weaving techniques.
What to Expect on This Journey:
This journey through Turkmenistan includes some long drives, but the roads are mostly paved and in good condition. Air-conditioned transportation will be provided, with regular rest stops for comfort, scenic views, and refreshments. Expect to walk 1-2 miles daily on sightseeing days, often on uneven or unpaved paths in archaeological sites, remote villages, and traditional weaving centers. You’ll explore a mix of urban and rural landscapes, from Ashgabat’s grand marble architecture to the ancient ruins of Merv and Kunya Urgench, the remote mountain village of Nokhur, and the vast Karakum Desert. Some locations, like the Darvaza Gas Crater, require off-road travel in 4WD vehicles. Many sites lack elevators and involve hilly or rocky terrain, so comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
Accommodation includes seven nights in a luxurious 5-star hotel in Ashgabat, offering world-class amenities, as well as unique stays that provide authentic cultural experiences. In Nokhur, you’ll spend a night in a simple yet comfortable guesthouse, where you’ll connect with the Nokhuri people and enjoy home-cooked meals. Later, you’ll spend a night in a traditional Turkmen yurt near the Darvaza Gas Crater, a memorable adventure with shared sleeping spaces and bathrooms, under a vast desert sky.
This tour is ideal for those with a passion for history, culture, and traditional craftsmanship. While the itinerary is well-paced, a spirit of adventure, patience, and flexibility will enhance your experience. To ensure the comfort and safety of all travelers, Undiscovered Frontiers reserves the right to adjust the order of sightseeing activities if necessary.
Photo Gallery:
Explore all Special Interest & Themed Tours
