Turkmenistan – Where the Door to Hell never closes.

Turkmenistan: Exploring the ‘Door to Hell’ at Darvaza Gas Crater

Turkmenistan is a country that is located in Central Asia, bordering Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. It is a landlocked country that boasts of a rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. One of the most fascinating places in Turkmenistan is the capital city of Ashgabat, which is known for its beautiful architecture and lively bazaars.

However, there is one place in Turkmenistan that stands out from the rest – the Darvaza Gas Crater. This mesmerizing natural gas crater has been burning for decades, and it is also known as the ‘Door to Hell.’ The crater is located in the middle of the Karakum Desert, which covers much of Turkmenistan. The crater is around 60 meters wide and 20 meters deep, and it is constantly burning with flames that can reach up to 30 meters high.

The story of how the Darvaza Gas Crater came to be is quite interesting. Back in 1971, a group of Soviet geologists were drilling for gas in the Karakum Desert when they accidentally hit an underground cavern that was filled with natural gas. The ground beneath their drilling rig collapsed, and a large crater was formed. The geologists were afraid that the gas would spread to nearby villages and cause an explosion, so they decided to set it on fire to burn off the gas.

However, they did not expect the fire to continue burning for so long. It has been over 50 years since the Darvaza Gas Crater was set on fire, and it is still burning to this day. The flames have become a tourist attraction, and people come from all over the world to see the ‘Door to Hell.’ The crater is particularly stunning at night when the flames light up the desert sky.

Visiting the Darvaza Gas Crater is not for the faint of heart. The Karakum Desert is known for its extreme temperatures, and the journey to the crater can be quite challenging. The closest town to the crater is Derweze, which is around 260 kilometers from Ashgabat. The road to Derweze is unpaved and can be quite rough, so it is recommended to hire a guide and a 4×4 vehicle to make the journey.

Once you reach Derweze, you will need to hike for around 20 minutes to reach the crater. The hike can be quite challenging, especially during the summer months when temperatures can reach over 40 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes.

When you finally reach the Darvaza Gas Crater, you will be greeted by a mesmerizing sight. The flames are constantly burning, and the heat can be felt from several meters away. The crater is surrounded by a ring of fire, and it is quite a surreal experience to witness it firsthand. The flames create a beautiful contrast against the dark desert sky, and it is a sight that you will never forget.

It is important to note that the Darvaza Gas Crater is not a natural wonder. It was created by human activity, and the flames are a result of a gas leak. Some environmentalists have criticized the burning of the gas, as it is a waste of a valuable resource. The government of Turkmenistan has stated that it has plans to close the crater and harness the gas for energy production, but so far, the ‘Door to Hell’ remains open.

Despite its controversial origins, the Darvaza Gas Crater is a fascinating place that attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is a reminder of the power of nature and the impact that human activity can have on the environment. It is also a testament to the ingenuity of human beings, who were able to turn a potential disaster into a tourist attraction.

In conclusion, the Darvaza Gas Crater is a unique and mesmerizing natural wonder that is located in the heart of the Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan. It is a place that is shrouded in mystery and has captured the imagination of people all over the world. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a curious traveler, the ‘Door to Hell’ should be on your bucket list of places to visit. It is a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you awestruck and inspired.