Turkmenistan is a country in Central Asia known for its vast deserts and rich cultural heritage. Its unique blend of ancient history and modern developments makes it an intriguing destination for travellers and scholars alike. Read more about Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan Trivia Quiz Questions
- What is the national currency of Turkmenistan?
Tenge
Manat
Lira - What famous archaeological site is located in Turkmenistan?
Machu Picchu
Gonur Tepe
Stonehenge - What is Turkmenistan’s national animal?
Snow Leopard
Golden Eagle
Akhal-Teke Horse - What is the main language spoken in Turkmenistan?
Russian
Persian
Turkmen - Which large desert covers much of Turkmenistan?
Gobi
Karakum
Sahara - What unique natural feature is found in the Karakum Desert?
The Grand Canyon
The Door to Hell
Victoria Falls - What traditional sport is popular in Turkmenistan?
Falconry
Horse Racing
Archery - What is the main export partner of Turkmenistan?
China
United States
Germany - In which year did Turkmenistan gain independence from the Soviet Union?
1991
1989
1993 - What is the predominant religion in Turkmenistan?
Christianity
Buddhism
Islam - What is a traditional form of music in Turkmenistan?
Mugham
Jazz
K-Pop - How many regions (velayats) does Turkmenistan have?
3
5
7 - Turkmenistan is the world’s largest producer of which crop?
Rice
Cotton
Wheat - What is a famous Turkmen carpet known as?
Kilim
Bukhara
Tekke - Who is a renowned historical leader from Turkmenistan?
Genghis Khan
Tamerlane
Alexander the Great - What is a popular traditional Turkmen dish?
Borscht
Sushi
Plov - Which mountain range is found in Turkmenistan?
Ural Mountains
Pamir Mountains
Kopet Dag Mountains - Which ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located in Turkmenistan?
Samarkand
Merv
Petra - Which body of water is shrinking and affecting Turkmenistan?
Lake Baikal
Aral Sea
Dead Sea - What is Turkmenistan’s largest export?
Oil
Cotton
Natural Gas - What is the name of the large natural gas field in Turkmenistan?
Ghawar Field
South Pars Field
Galkynysh Field - Which river forms part of Turkmenistan’s border with Uzbekistan?
Amu Darya
Danube
Nile - What is the traditional Turkmen dwelling called?
Yurt
Igloo
Hut - Which sea borders Turkmenistan to the west?
Black Sea
Caspian Sea
Aral Sea - What is the capital of Turkmenistan?
Ashgabat
Tashkent
Bishkek
The Turkmenistan trivia quiz answers are at the end of the page.
More About Turkmenistan
Geography
Turkmenistan is located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the northwest, Uzbekistan to the north and east, Afghanistan to the southeast, Iran to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west. The country is primarily covered by the Karakum Desert, which dominates its landscape. Major cities include the capital, Ashgabat, Turkmenabat and Mary. The climate is arid, with hot summers and mild winters.
Demographics
Turkmenistan has a population of approximately 6 million. Most of the population is ethnic Turkmen, with minorities including Uzbeks, Russians, and Kazakhs. The official language is Turkmen, and Russian is also widely spoken. Islam is the predominant religion, with most Turkmen identifying as Sunni Muslims.
History
Turkmenistan has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was part of the Achaemenid Empire, the Parthian Empire, and the Sassanid Empire. The area was conquered by the Arabs in the 7th century, introducing Islam to the region. In the 19th century, it became part of the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union. Turkmenistan declared independence from the Soviet Union on October 27, 1991, and has since developed its national identity.
Government and Politics
Turkmenistan is a presidential republic, with the President serving as the head of state and government. The political system is highly centralised, with the President wielding significant power. The current president is Serdar Berdimuhamedow. The country has a single-party system dominated by the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, and political opposition is limited.
Economy
Turkmenistan’s economy is primarily based on natural gas and oil. It holds the fourth-largest reserves of natural gas in the world. Other significant industries include cotton production, textiles, and agriculture. The government has invested heavily in infrastructure projects to modernise the country. Despite its wealth of natural resources, the economy faces challenges such as a lack of diversification and limited foreign investment.
Culture
Turkmen culture is deeply rooted in its nomadic heritage. Traditional music, dance, and crafts are integral to the cultural landscape. National holidays include Nowruz, celebrated on March 21st, and Independence Day on October 27th. The cuisine of Turkmenistan features dishes such as plov (a rice and meat dish), kebabs, and various bread-based dishes.
Education and Health
Turkmenistan has a state-funded education system, with compulsory education up to the secondary level. The literacy rate is high, and the government strongly emphasises education. The healthcare system is also state-funded, with ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services and infrastructure. However, challenges include limited access to advanced medical technologies and services in rural areas.
Infrastructure
Turkmenistan has been investing in its infrastructure, particularly in transportation and communication networks. The country has an extensive network of roads and railways connecting major cities and regions. The Ashgabat International Airport is the main gateway for international travel. Regarding communication, mobile phone coverage and internet services are expanding, although access remains limited in some areas.
Environmental Issues
Turkmenistan faces several environmental challenges, including desertification, water scarcity, and pollution. The Aral Sea crisis has also impacted the region. The government has initiated conservation efforts, such as reforestation projects and the creation of protected areas, to combat these issues and preserve the natural environment.
Tourism
Tourism in Turkmenistan is growing, with visitors attracted to its historical sites, natural landscapes, and unique culture. Notable tourist destinations include the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell,” and the modern cityscape of Ashgabat. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions while exploring the country’s rich heritage.
Turkmenistan Trivia Quiz Answers
- Manat
- Gonur Tepe
- Akhal-Teke Horse
- Turkmen
- Karakum
- The Door to Hell
- Horse Racing
- China
- 1991
- Islam
- Mugham
- 5
- Cotton
- Tekke
- Tamerlane
- Plov
- Kopet Dag Mountains
- Merv
- Aral Sea
- Natural Gas
- Galkynysh Field
- Amu Darya
- Yurt
- Caspian Sea
- Ashgabat