Ashgabat: A Complete Guide to the World’s White-Marble Capital

Ashgabat is a city that shatters all stereotypes. Reborn after the devastating earthquake of 1948, today it looks like a futuristic oasis in the middle of the desert. The capital of Turkmenistan is listed in the Guinness World Records for the highest concentration of white marble buildings in the world.

In this 2026 guide, Tm Tourism experts will tell you what you must see in this unique city, where futurism intertwines with the ancient traditions of the Great Silk Road.

Ashgabat's Main Attractions: Top 5 Locations Ashgabat's architecture is striking in its scale. Here are the places that must be included in your itinerary:

Independence Monument: A grand 118-meter structure surrounded by fountains and statues of great Turkmen rulers and military leaders.
“Alem” Ferris Wheel: The world's largest enclosed Ferris wheel (another Guinness record). It offers the best panoramic view of the city.
“Bagt Koshgi” Wedding Palace: A building in the shape of a huge eight-pointed star of Oguz Khan, with a giant globe-shaped sphere inside.
Ertugrul Gazi Mosque: A beautiful Ottoman-style mosque, whose architecture resembles the famous Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Ancient Nisa (UNESCO): Just 18 km from the modern center lie the ruins of Nisa — the ancient capital of the powerful Parthian Empire, which existed over 2,000 years ago.

City of Night Lights By day, Ashgabat shines with dazzling white marble under the bright sun, but as dusk falls, the city transforms. All buildings, fountains, and monuments are illuminated with vibrant neon lights. An evening tour of the city is a must-do for every tourist.

Expert Tips for Tourists in Ashgabat

Photography Rules: There are many government buildings in Ashgabat. Taking photos of state facilities, the Presidential Palace, and military personnel is strictly prohibited. Your guide will always point out where it is safe to take pictures.
Dress Code: It is recommended to stick to a smart casual style. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting public places and monuments.
Walking: The city is designed on a grand scale, and the distances between monuments are vast. Moving between locations on foot is difficult, so a car is necessary for a comfortable tour.

Book a tour of Ashgabat Want to see all the Guinness records and hidden gems of the capital? The Tm Tourism team will organize flawless excursions around Ashgabat for you in comfortable cars with the best professional guides.