Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
1. Ashgabat Olympic Village
A unique biking and walking area located in the heart of Ashgabat, this village hosted the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games. It offers a picturesque route for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Rich History: The venue was built for the games in 2017, showcasing modern architecture amidst a historical city.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: The tranquil environment provides a perfect escape from the bustling city life.
- Safety Measures: Security personnel ensure the safety of visitors during their leisure activities.
2. Balkanabat-Ashgabat Cycle Route
This 360 km long cycling route connects Ashgabat with the city of Balkanabat, offering a unique blend of scenic landscapes and cultural experiences.
- Scenic Landscapes: The route takes you through deserts, mountains, and green oases.
- Cultural Encounters: Meet local communities along the way and experience their traditional Turkmen lifestyle.
- Challenging Terrain: The route is suitable for experienced cyclists looking for a challenging adventure.
3. Kopetdag National Park
A beautiful national park located on the outskirts of Ashgabat, offering hiking and biking trails with stunning views of the city.
- Nature's Beauty: The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, providing a serene escape from the city.
- Mountain Challenges: Various trails cater to both beginner and experienced hikers and cyclists.
- Historical Sites: Explore ancient ruins and historical monuments within the park.
4. Ashgabat Velayat Park
This expansive urban park in Ashgabat features walking trails, a lake, and various recreational facilities for visitors.
- Recreation Opportunities: Facilities include basketball courts, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
- Relaxing Environment: The park's tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
- Beautiful Architecture: Enjoy the modern architecture and sculptures scattered throughout the park.
5. Ashgabat-Bagtöbe Cycle Route
This 120 km long cycling route connects Ashgabat with the village of Bagtöbe, offering a picturesque journey through Turkmenistan's countryside.
- Scenic Landscapes: The route takes you through farms, vineyards, and traditional villages.
- Cultural Experiences: Interact with locals and learn about their rural lifestyle.
- Moderate Terrain: The route is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.
6. Ashgabat-Turkmenbashi Highway Bike Path
A paved bike path runs parallel to the Ashgabat-Turkmenbashi highway, offering a safe and scenic cycling route out of the city.
- Safety: The path is separated from traffic, ensuring cyclist safety.
- Scenic Vistas: Enjoy stunning views of the Kopetdag Mountains and Turkmenistan's countryside.
- Length: The path covers a length of approximately 500 km, catering to long-distance cyclists.
7. Garagum Desert
This vast desert located near Ashgabat offers unique off-road biking opportunities amidst its dunes and rock formations.
- Adventure: Experience the thrill of exploring remote areas of the desert.
- Unique Landscapes: The desert's ever-changing dunes and rock formations create a breathtaking sight.
- Safety Measures: Always ensure you have adequate safety equipment and follow local guidelines when exploring the desert.
8. Arch of Neutrality
This monumental arch, located on top of the Kopetdag Mountains, offers a stunning viewpoint for both bikers and hikers.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Ashgabat and the surrounding countryside.
- Historical Significance: The arch symbolizes Turkmenistan's neutrality and is a significant national monument.
- Challenging Terrain: The hike up to the arch can be steep, making it a suitable challenge for experienced hikers and bikers.
9. Karakum Desert
This desert is home to ancient ruins and offers unique off-road biking opportunities amidst its dunes and rock formations.
- Adventure: Experience the thrill of exploring remote areas of the desert.
- Historical Sites: Visit ancient sites such as the Parthian Fortress of Nisa and the Kyrk-Kyz Kala fortress.
- Unique Landscapes: The desert's ever-changing dunes and rock formations create a breathtaking sight.
10. Gyz Gala
This historic fortress offers a scenic walking route with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Historical Significance: The fortress dates back to the Parthian Empire and is an important historical site.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Karakum Desert from the top of the fortress.
- Easy Accessibility: The fortress is easily accessible by car and provides a short, manageable walking route.
11. Ancient Merv
This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers walking trails through its ancient ruins and a unique glimpse into history.
- Historical Significance: Ancient Merv was an important stop on the Silk Road and is rich in historical artifacts.
- Architectural Wonders: Explore well-preserved architectural wonders such as the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum.
- Cultural Experiences: Learn about the region's history and culture through guided tours and exhibitions.
12. Balkanabat City Park
This urban park in Balkanabat offers walking trails, a lake, and various recreational facilities for visitors.
- Recreation Opportunities: Facilities include basketball courts, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
- Relaxing Environment: The park's tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
- Beautiful Architecture: Enjoy the modern architecture and sculptures scattered throughout the park.
13. Gyzylarbat-Köneürgench Cycle Route
This 200 km long cycling route connects Gyzylarbat and Köneürgench, offering a picturesque journey through Turkmenistan's countryside.
- Scenic Landscapes: The route takes you through farms, vineyards, and traditional villages.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit the ancient city of Köneürgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Moderate Terrain: The route is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.
14. Gyzylarbat-Ashgabat Highway Bike Path
A paved bike path runs parallel to the Gyzylarbat-Ashgabat highway, offering a safe and scenic cycling route from the north.
- Safety: The path is separated from traffic, ensuring cyclist safety.
- Scenic Vistas: Enjoy stunning views of the Kopetdag Mountains and Turkmenistan's countryside.
- Length: The path covers a length of approximately 400 km, catering to long-distance cyclists.
15. Awaza Beach Promenade
This coastal walkway in Awaza offers a scenic route for walking and biking with views of the Caspian Sea.
- Scenic Vistas: Enjoy beautiful sunsets and the tranquil waters of the Caspian Sea.
- Recreation Opportunities: Relax at nearby cafes, restaurants, and beach clubs.
- Safety Measures: The promenade is well-lit and patrolled by security personnel for visitor safety.