The Foreign Office has issued an update for a tourist destination, urging Brits to be careful before taking photographs. Turkmenistan, a Central Asian country, is taking steps to boost tourism, however, British tourists need to be mindful when visiting the nation, the Foreign Office has warned.
According to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings in Turkmenistan. In an updated warning shared on July 21, it stated: “Check before taking photos of or near airports, military infrastructure, police stations, government buildings or embassies.
“The guards at the presidential palace may tell you not to take photos of it. The Turkmen can be sensitive about having their picture taken without their consent.”
The country became independent after the Soviet Union fell in 1991 and has since kept strict entry rules for visitors. However, over the years, it has eased its rules to make it simpler for the foreign tourists to visit the country.
It’s top tourist attraction is the ‘Gates of Hell’—a giant burning gas crater about 260 km from the capital. It’s been on fire since the early 1970s, when a gas well collapsed and geologists lit the crater to stop methane from spreading.
Though they thought the flames would last only a few weeks, it’s still burning today and remains one of the world’s most surreal sights.
The country has more to offer than just the famous gas crater. Visitors can explore the stunning Yangykala Canyon, often called the “Turkmen Grand Canyon,” and ancient Silk Road cities like Merv, Nisa, and Kunya-Urgench, which are all recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The capital city, Ashgabat, stands out with its unique charm—it holds the Guinness World Record for having the highest number of white marble buildings anywhere on Earth.
According to the officials, one needs a letter of invitation to support their visa application for Turkmenistan. For tourist visits, authorised travel agents can provide these letters.
The FCDO added: “If you are travelling on business, you will need letters from the relevant government ministries or companies you want to do business with. If you want to attend an exhibition or event, the organiser normally provides visa support.”