Understand

The Kugitang Nature Reserve, located on the west side of the Kugitang Mountains bordering Uzbekistan, covers 27,140 hectares. Its name, Kugitang, which means 'almost impassable mountains' in Turkmen, perfectly encapsulates the stunning and challenging landscapes found within. Designated as a nature reserve, its main purpose is to protect the unique ecosystem of the mountain range and the rare capra falconeri, a wild mountain goat listed in the Red Data Book of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) [1]. One of the highlights of the Kugitang Nature Reserve is the Dinosaur Plateau, a remarkable site with over 400 footprints of dinosaurs dating back approximately 150 million years to the Jurassic period. These footprints were left by the Megalosaurus, a fascinating dinosaur species.

Get in

Turkmenistan Airlines operates daily flights from Ashgabat to Turkmenabat (Chardjou). The flying time is approximately 1 hour. To organize this trip, you will need to consult a travel agent who will arrange the necessary border zone permit and provide a driver for you. Please note that some information on the website may be outdated. If you're up for an adventure, Stantours offers a thrilling 6-day trekking tour to the majestic Kugitang Mountains. The journey begins in Ashgabat and ends in Turkmenabat. After a short one-hour flight from Ashgabat to Atamyrat (Kerki), you will embark on a three-hour car ride and then commence your climb to the Dinosaur Plateau. Prepare to be awe-struck as you visit the incredible Grotto of the Forty Maidens at Kyrk Gyz Gorge and camp in the breathtaking Gozel Gyzer Canyon. On the following day, you'll hike to the Maydan base camp and witness the wonders of wildlife. Get ready for an exhilarating experience as you ascend Ayrybaba, the highest mountain in Turkmenistan, standing tall at 3,137 meters. A visit to the Kugitang Caves will leave you mesmerized, and you'll have the opportunity to camp by the stunning Lake Koytenkol. Finally, you will return by car to Atamyrat (Kerki) and take a train back to Turkmenabat. The journey from Turkmenabat to the Reserve takes approximately 6 hours by car. For more information, please visit [Stantours website](http://www.stantours.com/tm_syl_et_kt.html).

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Plov (also spelled as plov or pilaf), sometimes referred to as the "national dish of Turkmenistan," is a rice dish that typically includes beef or lamb, carrots, onions, and spices such as cumin and coriander. The dish is cooked slowly on low heat, allowing the flavors to combine and the rice to become infused with the other ingredients. Plov is often served with a side of yogurt and pickles, which provide a tangy contrast to the richness of the main dish.

Manty is a type of traditional dumpling found throughout Central Asia, including Turkmenistan. These small, round dumplings are made from unleavened dough and filled with a mixture of ground meat, typically beef or lamb, and herbs. They can be boiled, fried, or steamed and are often served with a sour cream or yogurt sauce, as well as a side of fresh vegetables. Manty are a versatile dish, enjoyed at various times of day, from breakfast to dinner.

Chaukarma is a dish consisting of thinly sliced lamb, normally served raw but can also be cooked, mixed with various herbs and spices, and wrapped in a flatbread called non. This dish, which originates from the Turkmen desert, is a popular street food. It's often eaten during special occasions or festivals, reflecting the nomadic culture of the region. Chaukarma offers a unique blend of flavors, showcasing the simplicity and heartiness of Turkmen cuisine.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing