Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Nisa.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Explore the ancient ruins of Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reveals the fascinating history of the Parthian Empire in Turkmenistan.
Old Nisa, an ancient archaeological site near Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, offers tourists a glimpse into the rich history of the Parthian Empire. With its well-preserved ruins and stunning landscapes, it is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Nisa.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Bus
From Mary, make your way to the central bus station, which is located on Bitarap Street. Once at the bus station, look for buses heading to Ashgabat. These buses frequently depart throughout the day. After boarding, confirm with the driver that the bus stops near Old Nisa or the outskirts of Ashgabat. The journey should take approximately 3-4 hours. When you arrive in Ashgabat, disembark at the main bus terminal.
Taxi (shared taxi or marshrutka)
At the Mary bus station, you can also find shared taxis or marshrutkas (minibuses) heading to Ashgabat. These are often faster than regular buses but may be slightly more expensive. Once you arrive in Ashgabat, you can ask the driver to drop you off near Old Nisa, or you can navigate to the site using local taxis from the terminal.
Walking from Ashgabat
If you arrive in Ashgabat and prefer to walk, you can head towards Old Nisa from the city center. Start at the main square in Ashgabat (Galkynysh Square) and walk towards the northeast. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Old Nisa, which is approximately 18 kilometers away. It is advisable to take a taxi or other forms of transportation for this distance, as walking might take several hours.
Use Old Nisa as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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Discover Mary, Turkmenistan's ancient oasis, where history meets modernity amidst stunning landscapes and vibrant markets.
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