Central Asia’s 8 famous attractions to visit
Central Asia is made up of countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. These nations are beautiful, but due to political upheaval, they are not as well known to tourists as those in South Asia.
However, with their unique cultures and stunning landscapes, these countries attract the more adventurous traveller. Let’s take a look at some of the prominent Central Asian attractions worth visiting.
1.Gates of Hell, Turkmenistan
This is one of the most interesting and amazing places to visit in Central Asia. Also known as the Darvaza Gas Crater, this collapsed natural gas reservoir has been burning for decades. It is also called the Door to Hell or the Gates to Hell. The site is a popular tourist attraction and attracts curious visitors from all over the world.
2.Registan Square, Uzbekistan
Registan, which means sandy place in Persian, was once a famous city in Samarkand (now Uzbekistan). This remarkable palace is a remnant of the Timurid Empire.
3.Song Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Song Kul is a stunning alpine lake situated at an altitude of 9895 ft in the mountainous terrain of Naryn Province, Kyrgyzstan. It is also the largest freshwater lake in the country, surrounded by grassy fields. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking and horse riding.
4.Tomb of Ahmad Sanjar, Turkmenistan
Located in Merv, modern-day Turkmenistan, the Tomb of Ahmad Sanjar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a beautiful example of 12th-century architecture in terracotta, brick, stucco and plaster.
5.Lake Iskanderkul, Tajikistan
One of the most stunning glacial lakes in Central Asia, Iskanderkul Lake sits at an altitude of around 7000 ft in the Fann Mountains of Sughd Province, Tajikistan. The water of this lake is greenish-blue and looks spectacular.
6.Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan
The Charyn Canyon is a beautiful natural wonder in Kazakhstan along the Charyn River. You’ll be surprised to see some remarkable rock sculptures formed by water and wind erosion.
7.Burana Tower, Kyrgyzstan
Located in the Chuy Valley of Kyrgyzstan, Burana is an 82-foot tower. This 11th century tower was built by the Karakhanids. It was built near mosques for the call to prayer. It is also one of the oldest surviving structures in Central Asia.
8.Pamir Highway
The Pamir Highway is part of the ancient Silk Road, the famous trade route of yesteryear. The highway passes through Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and rivers. The highway also passes through parts of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.