Door of Hell (Turkmenistan)
Overview
The famous “Door of Hell” is a massive burning natural gas crater located in the middle of the Karakum Desert near the village of Darvaza. Officially known as the Darvaza Gas Crater, it is one of the most unusual and mysterious tourist attractions in the world. The enormous crater glows continuously with flames rising from the ground, creating an extraordinary sight that looks like a gateway to another world—hence the nickname “Door of Hell.”
The crater’s history dates back to 1971 during the Soviet era. Soviet geologists were drilling in the region while searching for oil reserves when they accidentally discovered a large underground natural gas cavern. During drilling operations, the ground collapsed, creating a crater approximately 70 meters wide. To prevent poisonous methane gas from spreading into nearby areas, scientists reportedly decided to ignite the gas, expecting it to burn for only a few days. Surprisingly, the fire continued burning for decades and remains active today.
The surrounding Karakum Desert covers almost 70% of Turkmenistan and offers dramatic landscapes, sand dunes, and unique desert ecosystems. Because of its remote location and glowing fire visible from far distances, the Door of Hell has become a dream destination for adventure seekers, photographers, and travelers looking for rare experiences.
Visiting at night creates the most dramatic experience as the crater’s fiery glow illuminates the desert sky. Camping near the crater under a star-filled sky is also a popular activity among visitors.
Tour Information
1. Transportation
- International flights to Ashgabat
- Private vehicles or guided tours from Ashgabat
- Desert jeep tours (4×4 vehicles recommended)
- Domestic transport and local tour operators
2. Departure From
- Ashgabat, Turkmenistan (main starting point)
- Distance from Ashgabat: approximately 260–270 km
3. Best Season
- October to April
- Peak travel months: November–March
4. Tour Type
- Adventure Tour
- Desert Expedition Tour
- Photography Tour
- Nature & Exploration Tour
- Camping Tour
5. Travel Tips
- Carry sufficient drinking water; desert temperatures can be extreme.
- Visit during sunset and stay until night for the best visual experience.
- Bring warm clothes even in desert regions because nights become cold.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for sand and rocky surfaces.
- Carry a power bank, flashlight, and camera for night photography.
- Consider booking a guided tour because independent travel regulations in Turkmenistan can be restrictive.
- Keep a safe distance from the crater edge due to uneven ground conditions.
The Door of Hell is one of the planet’s most extraordinary natural and human-created phenomena. Watching endless flames rise from the desert floor beneath a dark sky creates a surreal experience unlike any other destination in the world.