Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
1. Kipchak Mosque
A stunning example of Turkmen Soviet architecture housing the largest Koran in the world. Solve challenge of seeking spiritual enlightenment and architectural admiration.
- Size of Koran: The Koran here is 50 feet long, weighs 13 tons, and is covered in gold leaf.
- Architectural Style: Its unique blend of Islamic and Soviet architectural elements make it a remarkable sight.
- Housing the Largest Koran: This mosque is the only place in the world where you can see the largest copy of the holy book.
2. Saparmurat Haji Mosque
An impressive modern mosque with stunning gold-plated domes and intricate carvings. Solve challenge of finding a serene place for prayer in the heart of Ashgabat.
- Gold-Plated Domes: The mosque's four gold-plated domes are a striking feature, standing tall against the city skyline.
- Intricate Carvings: The mosque's interiors boast beautiful and intricate wood carvings depicting Islamic motifs.
- Modern Architecture: As a modern mosque, it offers contemporary facilities and a peaceful atmosphere for worshippers.
3. Arch of Neutrality
An iconic monument symbolizing Turkmenistan's stance on neutrality. Solve challenge of exploring Ashgabat's unique landmarks.
- Height and Scale: Standing at over 70 meters tall, the arch is a testament to Turkmenistan's grandeur.
- Symbol of Neutrality: The arch represents the country's commitment to peaceful coexistence and neutrality.
- Architectural Design: The arch's design is a fusion of traditional Turkmen and futuristic elements.
4. Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mausoleum
A grand mausoleum honoring Saparmurat Niyazov, the first president of Turkmenistan. Solve challenge of understanding the country's history and culture.
- Golden Statue: The mausoleum is topped with a golden statue of Niyazov, an iconic symbol in Ashgabat.
- Underground Museum: An underground museum beneath the mausoleum showcases the life and accomplishments of Niyazov.
- Cultural Significance: The mausoleum is a significant cultural site, offering insights into Turkmenistan's recent history.
5. Oguzkhan Mausoleum
A beautiful mausoleum dedicated to the legendary Turkic hero, Oguz Khan. Solve challenge of learning about Turkmen history and culture.
- Historical Significance: Oguz Khan was a significant figure in Turkic history, making this site historically important.
- Turkmen Heritage: The mausoleum is an essential part of understanding the Turkmen people's rich heritage.
- Architectural Beauty: The mausoleum features stunning traditional Turkmen architecture and intricate designs.
6. Goekdepe Mosque
A beautifully designed mosque offering breathtaking views of Ashgabat. Solve challenge of finding a peaceful spot to reflect.
- Stunning Views: The mosque's location offers panoramic views of the city, making it an ideal spot for photography.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Its peaceful atmosphere invites contemplation and reflection amidst a bustling city.
- Architectural Design: The mosque's unique architectural design, with its golden domes and intricate carvings, is a sight to behold.
7. Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
A modern mosque dedicated to the legendary Turkic leader Ertugrul Gazi. Solve challenge of exploring Ashgabat's religious sites.
- Modern Architecture: The mosque showcases modern architecture, featuring sleek lines and contemporary designs.
- Historical Significance: Ertugrul Gazi was a significant figure in Turkic history, making this site historically important.
- Spacious Prayer Hall: The mosque's spacious prayer hall accommodates large crowds for Friday prayers.
8. Ashgabat Biblical Isa (Jesus) Atamyaz Mosque
An impressive mosque with a unique architectural design symbolizing the prophet Jesus. Solve challenge of discovering Ashgabat's architectural wonders.
- Architectural Design: The mosque features a striking dome resembling a halo, symbolizing the prophet Jesus.
- Historical Significance: The mosque's design pays tribute to the religious significance of the prophet Jesus in Islam.
- Contemporary Features: The mosque offers contemporary facilities, including a modern prayer hall and library.
9. Seydi Hamze Mosque
An ancient mosque believed to have been built in the 16th century. Solve challenge of exploring Ashgabat's historical sites.
- Historical Significance: The mosque dates back to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest religious sites in Ashgabat.
- Traditional Architecture: The mosque features traditional Turkmen architectural elements, showcasing the region's rich history.
- Spiritual Experience: Visitors can experience a spiritual connection in this ancient and peaceful religious site.
10. Ruhnama Mosque
A mosque dedicated to the Ruhnama (Spiritual Book) of the late president Saparmurat Niyazov. Solve challenge of understanding Ashgabat's cultural and historical context.
- Cultural Significance: The mosque is a tribute to the Ruhnama, which played a significant role in Turkmen culture under Niyazov.
- Modern Architecture: The mosque showcases modern architecture, with its sleek lines and contemporary designs.
- Spiritual Experience: Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Turkmen culture through the Ruhnama Mosque's exhibits.
11. Mekan Turkmenbashi
A pilgrimage site dedicated to Saparmurat Niyazov, the first president of Turkmenistan. Solve challenge of understanding Ashgabat's cultural and political history.
- Cultural Significance: The site is a significant symbol of Niyazov's reign, showcasing his impact on Turkmen culture.
- Political History: Mekan Turkmenbashi offers insights into the political history of Turkmenistan during Niyazov's rule.
- Spiritual Connection: Visitors can connect with the legacy and memory of Saparmurat Niyazov at this pilgrimage site.
12. Yangygazi Mosque
A beautiful mosque offering a serene atmosphere in the heart of Ashgabat. Solve challenge of finding peace and tranquility amidst the city's bustle.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: The mosque's peaceful atmosphere invites contemplation and reflection amidst a bustling city.
- Architectural Design: The mosque's unique architectural design, with its golden domes and intricate carvings, is a sight to behold.
- Spacious Prayer Hall: The mosque's spacious prayer hall accommodates large crowds for Friday prayers.
13. Ashgabat Synagogue
The only synagogue in Ashgabat, serving the city's Jewish community. Solve challenge of exploring Ashgabat's religious diversity.
- Religious Diversity: The synagogue showcases Ashgabat's rich religious diversity, welcoming visitors to learn about its Jewish community.
- Historical Significance: The synagogue has been a constant presence in Ashgabat since the early 20th century.
- Architectural Design: The synagogue features traditional Jewish architectural elements, showcasing the richness of Jewish architecture.
14. Nohur Village Mosque
A beautiful mosque in the picturesque Nohur Village, offering a peaceful retreat from city life. Solve challenge of finding tranquility outside the city.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: The mosque's peaceful atmosphere invites contemplation and reflection amidst beautiful surroundings.
- Architectural Design: The mosque features stunning traditional Turkmen architectural elements, showcasing the region's rich history.
- Rustic Charm: Nohur Village provides a rustic charm that offers a unique experience outside Ashgabat.
15. Chyrpylyk Mosque
A beautiful and historic mosque located in the ancient city of Konye-Urgench. Solve challenge of exploring Ashgabat's historical sites beyond the city.
- Historical Significance: The mosque dates back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest religious sites in Turkmenistan.
- Traditional Architecture: The mosque features traditional Turkmen architectural elements, showcasing the region's rich history.
- Cultural Experience: Visiting Chyrpylyk Mosque offers a unique cultural experience, showcasing Konye-Urgench's ancient heritage.