In the heart of the Karakum Desert lies one of the most mysterious and impressive places on the planet — the Darvaza gas crater, known as the "Gates of Hell." This blazing crater has been burning day and night for over 50 years, creating an apocalyptic landscape amidst the endless sands.
The Origin Story
In 1971, Soviet geologists were exploring gas fields in this area. During drilling, they hit an underground cavity filled with natural gas. The ground beneath the drilling rig collapsed, forming a crater about 70 meters in diameter and 20 meters deep.
To prevent the release of methane into the atmosphere, scientists decided to ignite the gas. It was assumed the fire would go out within a few days when the gas burned off. However, the crater has been burning for over half a century, with no end in sight.
The Night Spectacle
The most impressive time to visit is at night. When the sun sets, the desert plunges into darkness, and then Darvaza reveals its true beauty. Hundreds of fiery torches illuminate the crater from within, creating an otherworldly glow. Flames dance in the wind, reflecting off the night sky.
Standing at the edge of the crater, you feel the heat emanating from the depths, hear the roar of fire, and understand why this place is called the "Gates of Hell." This is a sight impossible to forget.
Practical Information
Darvaza is located 270 km from Ashgabat. The journey takes about 4-5 hours by off-road vehicle. The last kilometers pass through desert terrain, which is an adventure in itself.
Most tourists prefer overnight stays in the desert near the crater. Traditional yurts provide comfort amid the sands. Waking up in the morning, you greet the sunrise over the desert — another unforgettable sight.
Ashgabat — The White City
Visiting Darvaza is usually combined with exploring Ashgabat — the capital of Turkmenistan. The city impresses with its white marble architecture: more than 500 buildings are clad in white marble, which is recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The Neutrality Monument, Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, and the National Museum are just some attractions of this amazing city. Ashgabat is a futuristic metropolis in the middle of the desert, full of unexpected contrasts.
When to Go
The best time to visit is spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). In summer, desert temperatures can exceed +45°C; in winter, nights can be very cold. The ideal time to visit the crater is sunset and night, when the flames are most impressive.