When it comes to countries shrouded in mystery and rarely visited by travelers, North Korea often comes to mind. However, there is another nation where tourism is almost nonexistent, not because of restrictions, but simply due to its secluded and unknown nature: Turkmenistan. This Central Asian country is remarkably beautiful, featuring grand, lavish buildings that captivate the eye—if anyone were there to see them. Yet, Turkmenistan remains largely isolated from the rest of the world. Few know about its attractions, and its people are similarly disconnected from the global community. Despite its potential as a tourist destination, the country is often off the map for most travelers.

About Turkmenistan

This intriguing and isolated country, Turkmenistan, was part of the Soviet Union from 1925 to 1991. The country was established in 1991, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, and since then, Turkmenistan has been ruled by authoritarian leaders, first Saparmurat Niyazov and then Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov. The current president is Serdar Berdymuhamedow.

About 60% of its population is of Turkish origin, and its capital, Ashgabat, translates to “City of Love.” Though the country isn’t closed off to visitors, its complex visa process makes it challenging for tourists to enter. Long isolated from the world, Turkmenistan remains a mystery, with few international visitors. Recently, a video shared by a tourist on the Instagram account counting countries offered a rare glimpse into its unique culture.

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A post shared by Jordan Egbert (@counting.countries)

Weird rules of Turkmenistan

Today, Turkmenistan is one of the least visited countries in the world. Those who have visited, are often left flabbergasted by some of the most unusual rules that are in place in the country. It’s these unusual rules and regulations that make Turkmenistan such a unique country to visit.

Turkmenistan still mandates COVID testing for travelers, a rule leftover from the pandemic.

Despite having grand marble and gold buildings, the country’s limited tourism infrastructure means there are few people to admire them. Hotels, however, are affordable, with palace-like accommodations costing around 5-6 thousand rupees a night.

Residents don’t have freedom of speech or unrestricted travel, and there are unusual laws, like public holidays for melons. One perk, however, is that water, electricity, and gas are provided free to citizens.

Until recently, a law mandated that all cars in the country be white to harmonize with the marble-clad buildings that dominate its cities. There is also prohibition of driving dirty cars.

There is also a ban on men under 40 sporting beards.