Daşoguz, Turkmenistan is a beautiful and historically significant city located in the north of the country. It is home to a variety of different attractions, ranging from ancient ruins to modern architecture. Here are the top 20 places to visit in Daşoguz, Turkmenistan.
1. Ancient Merv: Dating back to the 5th century BC, Ancient Merv is one of the oldest and most important archaeological sites in Central Asia. It was once the capital of the powerful Seljuk Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city, including the remains of the Great Mosque, the walls of the ancient city, and the ruins of the Palace of Sultan Sanjar.
2. Köneürgench: Located just outside of Daşoguz, Köneürgench is a small town with a rich history. It is home to the ruins of the 11th century Turabeg Khanum Mausoleum, a stunning example of Islamic architecture. The nearby minarets and tombs are also worth a visit.
3. Daşoguz Museum: Located in the city center, the Daşoguz Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Turkmenistan. The museum houses a variety of artifacts, including ancient coins, jewelry, and weapons.
4. Daşoguz Fortress: This ancient fortress, built in the 12th century, is one of the most important historical sites in the region. It is located on the banks of the Amu-Darya River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Hazreti Omar Mosque: This beautiful mosque is one of the oldest in the region and is still in use today. It is located in the center of the city and has a unique architecture, combining traditional Islamic and Turkmen styles.
6. Nohur Lake: This stunning lake is located in the foothills of the Kopet Dag Mountains and is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and camping. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a great place for a peaceful getaway.
7. Köneürgench Natural Reserve: This nature reserve is home to a variety of rare and endangered animals, including the endangered Turkmenian markhor, the wild boar, and the rare Turkmenian gazelle. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking and bird watching.
8. Daşoguz Zoo: This small zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys. It’s a great place to take the kids for a fun day out.
9. Daşoguz Theater: This theater is the oldest in the city and hosts a variety of performances, including plays, ballets, and operas.
10. Daşoguz State University: This university is the oldest in the city and offers a variety of courses in the humanities, sciences, and engineering.
11. Daşoguz Airport: This airport is the main hub for air travel in the region and offers flights to a variety of destinations, including Istanbul and Moscow.
12. Daşoguz Grand Mosque: This grand mosque is one of the largest in the region and is a popular destination for tourists.
13. Daşoguz Bazaar: This traditional bazaar is one of the largest in the region and is a great place to find traditional Turkmen souvenirs.
14. Daşoguz Central Park: This large park is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the fresh air. It is home to a variety of plants, trees, and flowers.
15. Daşoguz National Museum: This museum is home to a variety of artifacts, including ancient coins, jewelry, and weapons.
16. Kopet Dag Mountains: These stunning mountains are located just outside of Daşoguz and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
17. Daşoguz Botanical Gardens: This beautiful garden is home to a variety of plants, trees, and flowers.
18. Daşoguz State Library: This library is home to a variety of books, magazines, and newspapers.
19. Daşoguz City Hall: This impressive building is located in the city center and is home to the city’s government offices.
20. Daşoguz Art Gallery: This gallery is home to a variety of works from local and international artists.