Darvaza Village Guide
Journey to the Gates of Hell: Experience Darvaza Village Guide
Darvaza Village, though small and unassuming, is most famous for what lies just outside its borders: the Darvaza gas crater, often referred to as the "Gates of Hell." This fiery spectacle draws adventurous travelers from around the globe, offering a truly unique and unforgettable experience. While the village itself is a quiet glimpse into rural Turkmen life, it serves as the gateway to this extraordinary natural phenomenon. The Darvaza gas crater was created in 1971 when a Soviet drilling rig accidentally punctured a large underground natural gas cavern. To prevent the release of poisonous gases, geologists decided to set the gas alight, expecting it to burn out within a few weeks. However, the gas has been burning continuously ever since, creating a dramatic and mesmerizing inferno. The crater is approximately 70 meters in diameter and 30 meters deep, a truly awe-inspiring sight, especially at night. While visiting Darvaza Village, the primary activity is undoubtedly witnessing the gas crater. Tourists often camp nearby to experience the crater at both sunset and sunrise, when the flames are most visible against the darkening or dawning sky. Some adventurous travelers even venture close to the crater's edge (at their own risk, of course!) for a truly immersive experience. Remember to bring appropriate clothing as the desert temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night. There are no formal tours or facilities at the crater itself, so come prepared with water, food, and camping gear if you plan to stay overnight.
Transportation
Reaching Darvaza Village requires careful planning. The most common way is to hire a 4x4 vehicle with a driver from Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours across desert terrain. Organized tours are also available from Ashgabat, which typically include transportation, meals, and camping equipment. Public transportation to Darvaza Village is extremely limited and unreliable.