Fact 1: World's Largest Indoor Ferris Wheel
Turkmenistan holds the Guinness World Record for the 'Largest Indoor Ferris Wheel.' Its name is 'Alem' (Universe) and it was established in 2013 in the capital city Ashgabat, having a total height of about 57 meters. It is the shopping center's centerpiece with glass casing, offering a breath-taking view of the city.
Fact 2: It’s the 'Land of White Marble'
Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, holds another world record for having the highest concentration of buildings clad with 'white marble'. You'll find over 500 white marble buildings, covering a total area of about five million square meters.
Fact 3: Famous for its Wild Horses
Turkmenistan is famously known for its Akhal Tekke horse breed. These horses are prized for their endurance and sleek beauty. They are often called "Golden Horses" due to their distinctive metallic sheen.
Fact 4: Country with the Lowest Population Density
Geographically, Turkmenistan is slightly larger than Spain. However, with a population of around 6 million people, it is considered one of the least densely populated countries in the world.
Fact 5: Home to the famous Gates of Hell
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkmenistan is the Door to Hell or Gates of Hell in the Karakum Desert. It's a large gas crater that has been continually burning since it was lit by Soviet scientists in 1971.
Fact 6: The Carpet Day Celebration
Turkmenistan celebrates a unique holiday known as 'Carpet Day'. This celebration is dedicated to the national art of carpet and rug weaving, which is an important aspect of the country's history and culture.
Fact 7: The Presidential Horse Obsession
Turkmenistan's president, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, has a well-known passion for horses. So much so, that he has written a number of books about these animals, and even built a massive monument depicting his favourite horse.
Fact 8: Double Landlocked Country
Turkmenistan is one of the rare 'double landlocked' countries. This means that not only does not have any sea or ocean coastline, but all the countries it borders (Iran, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan) are also landlocked.
Fact 9: Dominated by the Karakum Desert
Nearly 80% of the country's area is taken up by the Karakum desert, one of the driest deserts in the world. Despite this, Turkmenistan is rich in natural gas resources.
Fact 10: Strict Visa Policies
Visiting Turkmenistan is not for the spontaneous traveler. The country has one of the strictest visa policies in the world, with only about 10,000-15,000 visas issued annually.
Fact 11: The Turkmenistan Flag
Turkmenistan's national flag is among the world’s most intricate designs. It prominently features a carpet motif, reflecting the nation's historical and present significance of the carpet weaving.
Fact 12: Home to the Akhal Teke Horse Breed
Turkmenistan is internationally recognized for its Akhal Teke horse breed, known for their speed and resilience. These horses are a national emblem and have appeared on Turkmenistan coins and stamps.
Fact 13: Attraction of Merv City
Merv city of Turkmenistan is an ancient city that was once an oasis city in a desert region on the historic Silk Road. It is famed for being the worlds' largest city in the 12th century.
Fact 14: The Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
Turkmenistan is home to one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. The mosque can accommodate more than 10,000 worshippers and has writings from both Quran and sayings of the former President Niyazov.
Fact 15: Independence in 1991
Turkmenistan was a part of the Soviet Union and officially gained its independence on October 27, 1991. The day is celebrated as National Day of Turkmenistan.
Fact 16: The Sultan Tekke Mausoleum
The Sultan Tekke mausoleum in Turkmenistan is a famous pilgrimage site. It is known for its architectural grandeur and is celebrated for gatherings called ziyarats that take place thrice a year.
Fact 17: Rich in Natural Gas
Turkmenistan is one of the richest countries in terms of natural gas reserves. It is said to possess the fourth-largest reserves of natural gas in the world.
Fact 18: Declared Permanent Neutrality
Turkmenistan has a unique global stance. In 1995, the United Nations formally recognized Turkmenistan as a permanently neutral country, making it the second such nation in the world after Switzerland.
Fact 19: Rare Dinosaur Footprints
Turkmenistan’s Kugitang Nature Reserve in the eastern part of the country is home to unique dinosaur footprints. These tracks are believed to be 150 million years old, making them an exciting spot for researchers.
Fact 20: Unique Turkmen Cuisine
Turkmen cuisine is distinctive and a big part of the culture. Notable dishes include 'plov' (a one-pot dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables) and 'manty' (dumplings with meat or vegetable fillings). Turkmenistan also has its own version of black tea called 'choy'. Drinking tea plays a significant role in Turkmen hospitality.