population: 1.066 million

extension: 440 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan and interested in visiting museums, I would suggest visiting the National Museum of Turkmenistan, which showcases the history and culture of the country. The Ashgabat Fine Arts Museum is also worth checking out, as it features a collection of Turkmen art and other artwork from around the world.

If you are interested in similar type of places, you could consider visiting the Carpet Museum of Turkmenistan or the Museum of the Spiritual Values of Turkmenistan, both located in Ashgabat as well.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan according to locals are:

1. Palaw: a traditional rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, onions, and spices.

2. Shashlyk: skewered and grilled chunks of lamb, beef, or chicken marinated in spices.

3. Manti: steamed dumplings filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef) and onions.

4. Lagman: a noodle soup made with hand-pulled noodles, meat (lamb, beef, or chicken), vegetables, and spices.

5. Chuchvara: small boiled dumplings filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef) and served in a broth.

6. Beshbarmak: a dish of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served over flat noodles and topped with a spicy onion sauce.

7. Gyzyl goz: a dessert made from sweetened ricotta cheese mixed with raisins, nuts, and honey.

8. Chorek: a type of bread that is round and slightly sweet.

These dishes can be found at local restaurants and food stalls throughout Ashgabat.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people like to do in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan include:

1. Visiting the Ashgabat Hippodrome and watching horse racing.
2. Exploring the Altyn Asyr Bazaar, which is one of the largest markets in Central Asia.
3. Taking a walk or hike up the Kopetdag Mountains, which offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscapes.
4. Relaxing at the Ashgabat Water Park, which features a variety of water slides, pools, and other fun attractions.
5. Enjoying traditional Turkmen cuisine at local restaurants, such as the Akhaltynskaya Yurta or the Nusay Restaurant.

These are just a few examples of fun activities that locals enjoy in Ashgabat.