One of the great deserts of Central Asia, the vast Kara-Kum (Black Sand) Desert spans more than 80 percent of the total Turkmenistan territory. Located to the east of the famous Caspian Sea, it is an arid land where the tradition of nomadic living is still present. With various oases scattered throughout, the place serves as a haven for adventurers, backpackers and travelers looking for a big slice of rugged, forbidding terrain. With an area of 350,000 square kilometers and connected to the outside world only via the Trans-Caspian Railway, it is a desolate, harsh place, illumined only by the native people who continue to live their ancient traditions.
The desert is most noted for its flourishing cotton industry, especially in the towns of Mary and Tejen. A major export, the cotton is also used in the production of the elaborate Turkmen rugs. However, the plantations are also sadly responsible for the continued shrinking of the Aral Sea, which is presently on the verge of being wiped off the map.
Probably the main reason for the industrial boom in the country was the discovery of extensive oil and natural gas reserves in the area, which now accounts for a large chunk of its economy. It is home to the Bolshoi Balkan mountain range - a majestic sight that is a destination for archaeological enthusiasts wanting to discover the various human remains from the Stone Age. Fascinating are the Darvaza Gas Craters, one of which is known as the "Gates of Hell," which, because of a fire accidentally caused by the Soviets, still burns up to this day. Tourists may be enticed to look for the devil there.
