
Best Train Journeys Around the World in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
1. Trans-Caspian Railway
Venture through the Karakum Desert to Turkmenbashi on this historic train journey, offering stunning desert vistas and a glimpse into local life.
- Desert Scenery: Provides breathtaking views of the vast Karakum Desert.
- Historic Significance: Rides along one of Central Asia's oldest and most significant trade routes.
- Local Culture Immersion: Offers opportunities to interact with nomadic tribes and local communities.
2. Ashgabat - Turkmenbashi Express
Experience the modern comfort of this high-speed train on your journey from Ashgabat to the Caspian Sea.
- Speed: Travels at a faster pace, reducing travel time.
- Comfort: Provides modern, comfortable seating and amenities for passengers.
- Coastal Views: Offers beautiful views of the Caspian Sea during the journey.
3. Ashgabat - Dashoguz Train
Journey through northern Turkmenistan to the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Ancient History: Connects travelers with the rich history and archaeological sites of Merv.
- Scenic Routes: Provides stunning views of the Kopet-Dag mountain range and Karakum desert landscapes.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows for exploration of diverse cultures along the route, including Turkmen, Uzbek, and Iranian.
4. Ashgabat - Balkanabat Train
Traverse southern Turkmenistan to the Caspian Sea port of Balkanabat, passing through the unique Kugitang Depression.
- Geological Wonders: Offers a chance to witness the unique geological formations found in the Kugitang Depression.
- Coastal Destination: Ends at the picturesque Caspian Sea port of Balkanabat, perfect for relaxing beach getaways.
- Local Life Insight: Provides an opportunity to learn about the lives and traditions of local communities along the route.
5. Ashgabat - Garabogazköl Train
Ride through the Karakum desert to the unique salt lake of Garabogazköl.
- Salt Lake Experience: Allows travelers to explore the striking salt lake and its surrounding landscapes.
- Desert Scenery: Offers awe-inspiring views of the Karakum desert and its unique flora and fauna.
- Cultural Exchange: Provides an opportunity to interact with local nomadic tribes and learn about their customs.
6. Turkmenistan - Afghanistan Train
Travel across the border into Afghanistan, connecting Ashgabat with cities like Herat and Mazar-i-Sharif.
- Cross-Border Adventure: Allows travelers to experience two distinct cultures during one journey.
- Historical Sites: Connects travelers with important historical sites in Afghanistan, such as the Minaret of Jam and the Blue Mosque.
- Adventure Opportunities: Offers unique adventure opportunities in the heart of Central Asia.
7. Turkmenistan - Iran Train
Journey to Iran via the Turkmenistan-Iran rail link, exploring ancient cities like Nisa and Merv.
- Ancient History Exploration: Connects travelers with the rich history of ancient Persia, including sites such as Nisa and Merv.
- Cultural Exchange: Allows for an immersion into Iranian culture and traditions.
- Scenic Routes: Provides stunning views of the Elburs mountain range and Iran's diverse landscapes.
8. Turkmenistan - Uzbekistan Train
Connect Ashgabat with Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, passing through ancient cities and breathtaking landscapes.
- Cross-Border Experience: Allows travelers to explore two unique Central Asian cultures during one journey.
- Ancient History Immersion: Connects travelers with important historical sites in Uzbekistan, such as Samarkand and Bukhara.
- Scenic Routes: Provides breathtaking views of the Kyzylkum desert, Fergana Valley, and Tien Shan mountain range.
9. Turkmenistan - Kazakhstan Train
Journey from Ashgabat to Kazakhstan via the Aqtau border crossing, exploring the Caspian Sea coast and Kazakh steppes.
- Cross-Border Experience: Allows travelers to explore two unique Central Asian cultures during one journey.
- Caspian Sea Coast: Offers opportunities to explore the beautiful Caspian Sea coastline in Kazakhstan.
- Steppes Exploration: Allows travelers to experience the vast and stunning Kazakh steppes.
10. Turkmenistan - Russia Train
Venture from Ashgabat to Moscow via the Turkmenbashi port, experiencing both the Caspian Sea and Russian landscapes.
- Cross-Border Experience: Allows travelers to explore two distinct cultures during one journey.
- Caspian Sea Coast: Offers opportunities to explore the beautiful Caspian Sea coastline in Turkmenistan and Russia.
- Russian Landscapes: Connects travelers with the diverse landscapes of Russia, including Siberia and the Ural Mountains.
11. Turkmenistan - China Train
Journey from Ashgabat to Beijing via Kazakhstan and Kazghar, showcasing Central Asian landscapes and Chinese culture.
- Cross-Border Experience: Allows travelers to explore three unique cultures during one journey.
- Central Asian Landscapes: Provides breathtaking views of the Kyzylkum desert, Fergana Valley, and Tien Shan mountain range.
- Chinese Culture Immersion: Allows travelers to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of China.
12. Turkmenistan - Turkey Train
Travel from Ashgabat to Istanbul via Georgia, showcasing Central Asian and Turkish cultures.
- Cross-Border Experience: Allows travelers to explore four unique cultures during one journey.
- Historical Sites: Connects travelers with important historical sites in Turkey, such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
- Scenic Routes: Provides stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea coast.
13. Turkmenistan - Europe Train
Venture from Ashgabat to Western Europe via Iran, Turkey, and Eastern European countries.
- Cross-Border Experience: Allows travelers to explore multiple cultures during one journey.
- Historical Sites: Connects travelers with important historical sites across Europe, including the Acropolis and the Colosseum.
- Scenic Routes: Provides breathtaking views of the Balkans, Alps, and other European landscapes.
14. Turkmenistan - South Asia Train
Journey from Ashgabat to countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, showcasing the rich diversity of South Asian cultures.
- Cross-Border Experience: Allows travelers to explore multiple cultures during one journey.
- Historical Sites: Connects travelers with important historical sites in South Asia, such as the Taj Mahal and the Golden Temple.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows for an immersion into the rich cultures and traditions of South Asia.
15. Turkmenistan - Africa Train
Travel from Ashgabat to countries like Egypt, Sudan, and South Africa, showcasing the diverse cultures of Africa.
- Cross-Border Experience: Allows travelers to explore multiple cultures during one journey.
- Historical Sites: Connects travelers with important historical sites in Africa, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Zimbabwe.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows for an immersion into the rich cultures and traditions of Africa.