Turkmen Fantasy – Yangikala

One of the scenic natural objects of Turkmenistan – Yangikala canyons is located 165 km to the north from Balkanabat and 160 km to the east from Turkmenbashi. The word expression” yangi kala” is translated from Turkmen as “fire fortresses”.

Indeed, the sheer cliffs of white, yellow, ocher, purple and red colors, fancily carved by winds and rains, are very similar to the stone castles from a fantasy. The most beautiful canyons are during sunset, when everything is painted in a red hot color.

Once, the bottom of the canyons was the bottom of an ancient sea. And today you can walk there, like in a natural park of sculptures made of compressed soil, sloughing in hands. For this reason, although you can climb the variegated hills, you cannot handhold the buttress.

This place is perfect for hiking and overnight stays in tents, as well as for jeep safari. Although Yangikala is frequently visited by tourists, yet this canyon is not included in a standard tour program. Therefore it is better to agree in advance on its visit with your tour operator.