Languages Spoken in Ashgabat – A Comprehensive Guide

Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan, is a city full of history, culture, and diversity. The city, which is located in the southwestern part of the country, has a rich heritage and has been home to many different cultures and peoples throughout history.

Today, Ashgabat is home to people of many different ethnicities, and as a result, many different languages are spoken in the city. If you’re planning to visit Ashgabat, it’s useful to know what languages are spoken there, especially if you plan on interacting with the locals.

The Official Language of Turkmenistan

The official language of Turkmenistan is Turkmen, and it is spoken by more than 72% of the country’s population. Turkmen is the language of instruction in schools, government, and business in the country. It is also the most commonly spoken language in Ashgabat.

Turkmen is a Turkic language and is one of the eight official languages of the Turkic Council. It is also spoken in parts of Iran, Afghanistan, and Turkey.

Other Languages Spoken in Ashgabat

Aside from Turkmen, there are several other languages spoken in Ashgabat:

Russian

Russian is the second most spoken language in Ashgabat. It is spoken by more than a quarter of the city’s population, and it is considered a lingua franca in Turkmenistan. Russian was the second official language of Turkmenistan until 1996, and it is still widely spoken in government institutions and businesses.

Uzbek

Uzbek is another language that is spoken in Ashgabat, particularly by the city’s sizable Uzbek population. It is a Turkic language and is spoken by about 5% of the country’s population. The language shares many similarities with Turkmen, but it has its own unique features.

Tajik

Tajik is another language that is spoken in Ashgabat. It is the official language of Tajikistan, and it is spoken by a small minority of the country’s population. However, there are still many Tajiks living in Ashgabat, and they continue to speak their own language alongside Turkmen and Russian.

English as a Foreign Language

English is not a language that is widely spoken in Ashgabat. However, it is taught in schools as a compulsory foreign language, and it is becoming more popular among younger generations.

If you’re planning to visit Ashgabat, it’s a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Turkmen or Russian to help you communicate with the locals. Even a few words can go a long way in making a good impression and showing respect for the local culture.

Conclusion

Ashgabat is a city that is rich in diversity, culture, and history. Turkmen is the most commonly spoken language, but Russian, Uzbek, and Tajik are also spoken by significant portions of the population. English is not widely spoken, but it is becoming more popular. If you’re planning to visit Ashgabat, learning some basic phrases in one of the local languages can help you communicate with the locals and show your respect for the local culture.

We hope you found this guide to the languages spoken in Ashgabat helpful. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below!

Insider’s Guide to Ashgabat

Located in the heart of Central Asia, Ashgabat is the capital city of Turkmenistan. Known for its grandiose architecture, this city is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The official language of Ashgabat is Turkmen, but Russian and English are also spoken widely. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the city and make the most of your trip to Ashgabat.

Local Attractions

Ashgabat is a city of grand monuments and beautiful parks, so there’s no shortage of places to visit. Here are some of the top attractions for tourists:

Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque

Also known as the Spiritual Mosque, this is the largest mosque in Central Asia and one of the most impressive sites in Ashgabat. The mosque is located in the residential area of Kipchak and its exterior is adorned with beautiful mosaics and calligraphy.

Ashgabat National Museum of History

The Ashgabat National Museum of History showcases Turkmenistan’s rich cultural heritage and history. From ancient archeological finds to pre-Islamic artifacts to rare books, the museum has something for everyone.

Ashgabat Ferris Wheel

For a breathtaking view of Ashgabat, take a ride on the Ferris wheel. It is the largest one in Central Asia and reaches a height of 95 meters. You’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city from the top.

Dining Spots

When visiting Ashgabat, you’ll want to try out the local cuisine. Here are some top dining spots to check out:

Yildyz Hotel Restaurant

Located in the Yildyz Hotel and offering a spectacular view of the city, this restaurant specializes in Turkmen cuisine and international dishes. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner or an elegant evening out.

Kopetdag Resort Restaurant

For those who love to dine outdoors, Kopetdag Resort Restaurant is the perfect pick. Set amidst beautiful nature, this restaurant specializes in traditional Turkmen dishes and is a great place to relax and unwind.

Cultural Experiences

Ashgabat is a city with a rich cultural heritage. Here are some cultural experiences you shouldn’t miss:

Carpet Museum

Located in the outskirts of Ashgabat, the Carpet Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Turkmen traditions and carpets. The museum boasts a fantastic collection of antique and modern carpets from the Turkmenistan and the Silk Road.

Tolkuchka Bazaar

Located 5 kilometers from Ashgabat, Tolkuchka Bazaar is an enormous outdoor market, where you can find anything from textiles, to spices, to handicrafts. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the bazaar.

Local History

Ashgabat has a rich history that is worth exploring. Here are some historical sites to visit:

Nissa

Located about 15 kilometers west of Ashgabat, Nissa was the capital of the Parthian Empire. The site boasts well-preserved remains of ancient temples, palaces, and fortifications.

Independence Monument

As part of the post-Soviet cultural revival, the Independence Monument was built to commemorate Turkmenistan’s independence from the Soviet Union. The monument stands 118 meters high and represents the country’s transition from the Soviet era to the modern age.

Off the Beaten Path

For travelers who prefer to venture off the beaten path, here are some places to visit:

Kow Ata Underground Lake

Located about 60 kilometers from Ashgabat, Kow Ata Underground Lake is a fascinating natural wonder. The lake is located inside a cave and the water is believed to have therapeutic properties.

Bartang Valley

Bartang Valley is a perfect destination for those who love the outdoors. It’s a great place to hike, camp or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.

In conclusion, Ashgabat is a unique destination that offers a blend of history, culture, and modernity. Take advantage of this insider’s guide and explore all that this extraordinary city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, cultural experiences, fine dining, or nature, Ashgabat has something to suit all tastes and interests.