Darvaza Gas Crater
Lebap
The Darvaza Gas Crater, also called the Door to Hell or Gates of Hell, is a remarkable natural gas field collapsed into a cavern near the village of Darvaza in Turkmenistan. It spans approximately 60 to 70 meters in diameter and reaches a depth of around 30 meters. The crater has been continuously burning since 1971, when Soviet engineers accidentally punctured a natural gas cavern during drilling, causing its roof to collapse. To prevent the release of poisonous gases, the crater was ignited and has remained aflame ever since. The site is illuminated by hundreds of natural gas fires around its rim and floor, creating a spectacular and otherworldly sight. Located about 260 kilometers north of Ashgabat, the crater lies in the heart of the vast Karakum Desert. Despite governmental plans to extinguish the fire due to environmental and health concerns, the crater persists as a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors intrigued by its unique fiery spectacle. Nearby, another gas crater exists but is fenced off and emits a distinct odor. The crater's dramatic appearance and continuous flames have also made it a cultural symbol and a notable stop in automotive rallies. In 2013, explorer George Kourounis became the first person to descend to the crater's bottom, collecting soil samples for scientific research, highlighting the site's significance beyond tourism.
Plan your trip to Turkmenistan with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan to visit the Darvaza Gas Crater after sunset to witness the full visual impact of the glowing flames against the dark desert sky. Due to its remote desert location, it is advisable to arrange transportation in advance, preferably with a guided tour. There are no formal visitor facilities or signage, so preparation for desert conditions, including water, appropriate clothing, and safety precautions, is essential. Purchasing tickets or permits in advance is not typically required, but checking local regulations or tour operator requirements is recommended. Visitors should be mindful of environmental concerns and respect any safety barriers near the crater.
Interesting facts
- •The crater has been burning continuously since 1971, making it one of the longest-burning gas fires in the world.
- •The site is located in the Karakum Desert, about 260 kilometers north of Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital.
- •Explorer George Kourounis was the first person to descend to the bottom of the crater in 2013, collecting soil samples for scientific research.
- •The crater is also known locally as Garagum Yalkymy, meaning 'Shining of Karakum'.
- •Despite plans announced in 2022 to extinguish the crater, it remains burning as of 2025, though its size has been reduced significantly.
History
The Darvaza Gas Crater was formed in 1971 when Soviet engineers drilling for natural gas accidentally punctured a cavern, causing the ground to collapse and form the crater.
To prevent the spread of poisonous gases, the crater was intentionally ignited, but the fire has burned continuously since then.
There are some conflicting accounts suggesting the collapse or ignition may have occurred in the 1960s or 1980s, but the most accepted date is 1971.
Over the decades, the crater has become a prominent landmark and tourist destination.
In recent years, Turkmen authorities have taken steps to reduce the crater's size and impact, including drilling methane capture wells and considering extinguishing the fire due to environmental and health concerns.
Place Guide
Crater Rim and Flames
The rim of the crater is lined with hundreds of small natural gas fires that create an intense, fiery spectacle visible from a distance, especially striking at night.
Descent Site2013
The bottom of the crater was first reached by explorer George Kourounis in 2013, who wore specialized protective gear to safely collect soil samples for the Extreme Microbiome Project.