population: 0.033 million

extension: 10.4 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Gökdepe and interested in visiting museums, you may want to check out the National Museum of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat, which is about 30 kilometers away. This museum showcases the country's history, culture, and art. Another museum in Ashgabat worth visiting is the Ashgabat Museum of Fine Arts, which features a collection of paintings and sculptures by Turkmen artists.

If you're looking for similar types of museums, you might also want to consider visiting the Museum of Turkmen Carpets or the Museum of Traditional Musical Instruments, both located in Ashgabat.

Food

Gökdepe is a small town in Turkmenistan, and the local cuisine may not have many unique dishes. However, there are some traditional Turkmen dishes that are popular throughout the country, including:

1. Plov or pilaf - A rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, onions, and spices.

2. Manty - Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, onions, and herbs.

3. Shashlyk - Grilled meat skewers, usually made with lamb or beef.

4. Lagman soup - A hearty soup made with noodles, meat, vegetables, and herbs.

5. Samsa - Baked pastry filled with meat or pumpkin.

6. Chak-chak - Fried dough pieces coated in honey syrup, often served as a dessert.

7. Ash - A soup-like dish made with meat, vegetables, and chickpeas.

These dishes can be found in restaurants and cafes throughout Turkmenistan, including in Gökdepe.

Activities

As Gökdepe is a small town located in the outskirts of Ashgabat, many locals often travel to the capital city for leisure activities. However, there are still some fun things you can do in Gökdepe that locals enjoy, such as:

1. Visit the Gökdepe Mosque: This mosque is one of the most important religious sites in Turkmenistan and is believed to have been built in the 19th century. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

2. Explore the Gökdepe Fortress: This fortress was built in the 1800s and played a significant role in the Battle of Geok Tepe, which took place during the Russo-Turkmen War. Locals often visit this historic site to learn more about their country's history.

3. Go hiking or camping in the nearby mountains: There are several scenic mountains near Gökdepe where locals love to go hiking, camping, and picnicking. Some popular destinations include Kopet Dag and Mount Arlan.

4. Attend local festivals and events: Throughout the year, Gökdepe hosts various cultural and religious festivals, such as Nowruz (Persian New Year) and Kurban Bayrami (Eid al-Adha). Attending these events is a great way to experience the local culture and traditions.

5. Shop at the bazaar: Gökdepe has a bustling bazaar where locals sell everything from fruits and vegetables to handicrafts and souvenirs. Browsing the stalls and haggling with vendors is a fun and authentic local experience.