Turkmenistan: 3-Day Transit Loop via Merv and Ashgabat

Route: Farap Border — Ancient Merv — Ashgabat — Turkmenabat — Farap Border

This 3-day Turkmenistan loop tour is ideal for travellers. Firstly, it starts and ends at the Uzbek border. Over three days, you will visit legendary Merv and futuristic Ashgabat. Additionally, you will experience a classic journey on an overnight train.

Day 1: Farap Border — Ancient Merv — Ashgabat

09:00 | Meeting at the border. Firstly, your programme begins at the Farap (Alat) border crossing. After you complete the formalities, we transfer to the Mary Oasis (250 km).

Lunch: We stop at a traditional teahouse in Bayramaly city.

Ancient Merv Tour (UNESCO):

• Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum: This 12th-century masterpiece features a unique double dome.

• Kyz-Kala Fortresses: These are famous “corrugated” clay castles.

• Shrines of the Ashabs: This is the burial site of the Prophet’s companions.

• Erk-Kala & Gyaur-Kala: We climb the ancient ramparts for a panoramic view.

Transfer to the capital: Later, we drive to Ashgabat (350 km). After hotel check-in, an optional night tour is available. This is a great way to see the city lights.

Overnight: Hotel in Ashgabat.

Day 2: Ashgabat — Night Train to Turkmenabat

Individual City Tour: Firstly, the entire day is dedicated to Ashgabat. Your guide will tailor the route to your interests. Consequently, you will see the best of the “white-marble capital”.

Key Locations: Specifically, you will visit Independence Park and the Neutrality Arch. Furthermore, you will explore modern districts with golden domes and futuristic monuments. This is a perfect chance to see how ancient culture meets modern architecture.

Free Time: In the afternoon, you can visit the Oriental bazaar for souvenirs. Alternatively, you can enjoy a stroll through the central parks.

19:50 | Night Train: Finally, we transfer you to the station for the train to Turkmenabat. Travelling in a cosy compartment allows you to rest. Moreover, it saves significant time on your return journey.

Overnight: On the train (sleeper compartment).

Day 3: Turkmenabat — Amu Darya River — Farap Border

09:20 | Arrival in Turkmenabat. Firstly, your driver will meet you at the railway station. Then, you will begin exploring the eastern region of the country.

Green Bazaar: You will visit this vibrant local market. It is the best place to feel the Lebap atmosphere. Additionally, you can purchase traditional sweets there.

Cultural Programme: Next, we visit the Museum of History. It houses a rich collection of Turkmen carpets and artefacts. Furthermore, we explore the ruins of the ancient Amul-Kala fortress. This was once a vital node on the Silk Road.

Amu Darya River: After lunch, we make a photo stop by the river. The Amu Darya is the most voluminous river in Central Asia.

Return to the border: Finally, we transfer you to the Farap border crossing. Our staff will assist you with the departure formalities. This ensures a comfortable exit to Uzbekistan.

End of Tour.

Currently, there are no scheduled dates for this tour.

Please contact us to arrange your private 3-day Turkmenistan loop tour.