Door to the fire — Attraction in Dashoguz Region

Turkmenistan 🇹🇲, Derwaza

Turkmenistan, an often-overlooked treasure in Central Asia, holds a secret within its vast and remote Karakum Desert. A journey that blurs the line between reality and fantasy as we explore the "Door to Hell," Darvaza Crater, and savor the unforgettable night I spent in a traditional yurt amidst the desert's timeless beauty.

Hours of driving led me to my destination, the remarkable Darvaza Crater, also known as the "Door to Hell."

The Eerie Flames of Darvaza Darvaza Crater is an unearthly sight, a massive pit nearly 70 meters in diameter, continuously engulfed in flames. It felt as though the Earth had opened up to reveal the gates of a blazing inferno. In reality, this surreal phenomenon resulted from a Soviet drilling mishap in 1971.

Soviet geologists were searching for natural gas reserves when the ground collapsed, creating the crater. To mitigate the spread of dangerous gases, they set the crater on fire, which has been burning ever since. The resulting flames, fueled by natural gas, create a captivating spectacle against the dark desert backdrop.

While the Darvaza Crater was a captivating sight, my adventure was just beginning. To fully immerse myself in the desert experience, I decided to spend a night in a traditional yurt, the nomadic dwellings of the desert's inhabitants.

The yurt provided a comfortable retreat amid the vastness of the desert. Its circular design and felt coverings offered refuge from the harsh desert climate. Stepping inside, I was welcomed with the warm hospitality of the local nomads who had established the camp.

The yurt's interior was adorned with colorful rugs and cushions, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. I was invited to sit on a cushion, and the hosts served a delightful meal of local cuisine. Traditional Turkmen dishes, including fragrant rice pilaf, succulent kebabs, and freshly baked flatbreads, filled the air with tantalizing aromas.

Despite the language barrier, the nomads and I communicated through smiles and gestures. They introduced me to the art of brewing and savoring Turkmen tea, a robust brew served in petite cups. We exchanged stories of our lives, bridging the cultural gap in the heart of the desert.

Stargazing and Desert Serenity After dinner, I stepped outside the yurt, and the breathtaking night sky immediately captivated me. The absence of city lights allowed the stars to shine with unparalleled brilliance. I found myself immersed in a vast expanse of celestial beauty.

The desert's silence was profound, interrupted only by the crackling of the burning crater in the distance. It was a moment of tranquility and a profound connection with the natural world. I stretched out on a cushioned mat, gazing up at the infinite expanse above, immersed in contemplation.

Lying there, surrounded by the stillness of the desert night, it became evident that this yurt experience was genuinely extraordinary. It was a testament to the resilience of the desert's people and their ability to find beauty in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

My exploration of the "Door to Hell" had evolved into an unforgettable desert adventure. The contrast between the surreal flaming crater and the tranquility of the desert night in a yurt had left me with memories that would remain etched in my heart.

Visiting the Darvaza Crater is an experience that defies ordinary travel, and adding a night in a traditional yurt to your journey elevates the authenticity of your adventure. It offers a rare opportunity to connect with the desert's beauty and the warmth of its people.

When planning a trip to this remote desert location, it's crucial to conduct thorough research and adhere to safety measures. The site is located in a potentially hazardous environment, so travel arrangements and permits should be in compliance with local regulations and guidelines.

Turkmenistan may not be a common travel destination, but it is a place where you can discover the extraordinary. Whether you're drawn by the flaming inferno of the "Door to Hell" or the...

The Darvaza Crater is an otherworldly experience! The 4-hour drive from Ashgabat was worth every bump and twist, as the sight of the never-ending flames left me awestruck. As we approached, I could feel the heat radiating from the crater, a palpable warmth that seemed to seep into my bones.

Reading about the crater beforehand didn't prepare me for the sheer scale and intensity of the experience. Seeing the flames dance and flicker in the darkness was mesmerizing, like gazing into the very heart of the earth.

A group of Europeans nearby, enjoying beer and good company, added a touch of conviviality to the experience. Their carefree laughter and clinking glasses seemed to blend with the crackling flames, creating a memorable atmosphere.

Seeing the crater at night was pure magic. The flames seemed to pulse with an otherworldly energy, casting a golden glow over the surrounding landscape. Spending the night in the nearby yurt was the perfect way to soak in the experience, and the millions of stars twinkling above were the perfect accompaniment to my midnight excursion.

The Darvaza Crater is an experience that will stay with me forever. If you're looking for a truly surreal and unforgettable adventure, this is it. Just be prepared for the heat, the rough roads, and the possibility of a few unexpected surprises along the way.

Rating 5/5 stars

Tips Visit at night for the best experience. Bring warm clothing and a flashlight. Be prepared for rough roads and basic accommodations. Don't miss the chance to spend the night in the...

So, picture this: I’m hyped, got my camera ready, maybe even feeling a little brave, because who wouldn’t want to see a flaming crater that’s been burning nonstop for over 50 years? Sounds badass, right? Wrong.

I had no idea you weren’t supposed to get too close, so naturally, I strolled right up to the edge like an absolute genius. Big mistake. The heat slapped me so hard I swear I got third-degree burns through my jacket. Not kidding — my skin felt like it was auditioning for a role in a campfire horror movie. If the flames had hands, they’d be giving me the finger right now.

The smell was like if someone tried to barbecue failure and disappointment. Bugs circled the fire like it was the hottest nightclub in hell, and they were not impressed by my presence.

The crater basically told me, “Buddy, you don’t belong here. Go back to your Netflix and stop pretending you’re an adventurer.” So I did — faster than you can say “what the hell was I thinking?”

1 star because this place is less awe-inspiring natural wonder and more like the universe’s way of roasting me alive. Would not recommend unless you want your ego...