The livestock area
Camels, sheep and goats.
Kerri-Jo Stewart from Vancouver, Canada — CC BY 2.0 · Kerri-Jo Stewart from Vancouver, Canada — CC BY 2.0 · Kerri-Jo Stewart from Vancouver, Canada — CC BY 2.0 · Kerri-Jo Stewart from Vancouver, Canada — CC BY 2.0 · Kerri-Jo Stewart from Vancouver, Canada — CC BY 2.0
Altyn Asyr Bazaar, still known locally as Tolkuchka, is the largest market in Turkmenistan and one of the largest in Central Asia. It lies on the outskirts of Ashgabat, about 13 km in a straight line from the city centre. Ashgabat's flea market dates back to the years after the Second World War and moved between several sites in the city. In the 1990s it became famous as a traditional Central Asian bazaar where camels wandered among the stalls and hundreds of traders sold carpets and goods. The present market opened on 15 February 2011, replacing the old one. The market was designed so that from above it resembles a Turkmen carpet pattern from Ahal Province. It covers 154 hectares with 2,155 shops, and a tall clock tower at its heart is its main landmark. You will find sacks of spices and dried fruit, bright fabrics and carpets, and in the livestock area, camels, sheep and goats. The market is huge, so wear comfortable shoes and carry cash in local currency. Always ask before photographing traders or other people, and bargain politely. Check the rules for taking carpets out of the country before buying a large one.
Camels, sheep and goats.
Bright sacks of spices and dried fruit.
Colourful Turkmen textiles.
Choganly area, outskirts of Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
It was the name of the old flea market this one replaced, and people still use it.
Yes, but check the rules for taking them out of the country before buying a large one.