Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

We had a quick tour around Ashgabat on our way to attractions in the surrounding areas.

The first stop was the picturesque ruins of Old Nisa, a Parthian city and UNESCO World Heritage site that was created in the 3rd C BCE.

Several people in our group took an opportunity for a quick horse ride at the Arkdash Stud Farm. The farm has been run for generations by the same family. These majestic Akhal-teke horses were selectively bred for the harsh Turkmenistan climactic conditions and are one of the oldest horse breeds in existence.

We visited 2 mosques both related to Turkmen political figures. The first mosque, Türkmenbaşy Ruhy, was created at birth place of the nation’s founder. The second, Saparmurat Hajji, was built after the current president’s pilgrimage to Mecca.

The day was capped off with dinner, live folk dancing and a wedding between group members. As there are no women in our group, one of our brave compatriots selflessly volunteered to be the bride.