20 interesting things about Turkmenistan

  1. Turkmenistan is a country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Iran.
  2. The official language is Turkmen and the currency is the Turkmen manat.
  3. Turkmenistan has a rich history and was an important center of the ancient Silk Road trade route.
  4. The country has a largely desert landscape, with the Karakum Desert covering over 80% of its territory.
  5. Turkmenistan has large reserves of natural gas and oil, making it one of the wealthiest countries in Central Asia.
  6. The country is known for its unique architecture, which combines traditional and modern styles.
  7. Turkmenistan is also known for its colorful and vibrant traditional crafts, including carpet weaving, embroidery, and pottery.
  8. The country’s economy is largely based on natural resources, primarily oil and natural gas.
  9. Turkmenistan is also a major producer of cotton and wheat.
  10. The country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the ancient city of Merv and the Konye-Urgench archaeological site.
  11. Turkmenistan is known for its traditional music and dance, which have been influenced by various cultures over the centuries.
  12. The country is home to the famous Gates of Hell, a massive natural gas fire that has been burning continuously since 1971.
  13. Turkmenistan is also home to the unique and beautiful Lake of Sarygamysh, which is a saline lake.
  14. Turkmenistan is known for its traditional nomadic lifestyle, and many people still herd sheep and camels today.
  15. The country is a major producer of natural gas and oil, and has the fourth largest reserves of natural gas in the world.
  16. Turkmenistan is also a major exporter of cotton, and is one of the world’s largest producers of the crop.
  17. The country is home to the Akhal-Teke horse, a unique and prized breed known for its beauty and endurance.
  18. Turkmenistan has a population of around 6 million people, with Turkmens being the largest ethnic group.
  19. The country’s capital and largest city is Ashgabat, which is known for its white marble buildings and is considered one of the most unusual capital cities in the world.
  20. Turkmenistan has a low GDP per capita compared to other countries in the region. Despite this, the government has invested heavily in infrastructure and construction projects, including the construction of a new international airport in Ashgabat.