Serdar Health Walk

Near the site of the ruins of the Parthian Fortress of Nisa is the Serdar Health trail, locally known as Saglyk ýoly. The trail offers beautiful views of the Kopet-Dag mountain range, with one end including views of the ruins of Nisa. There are actually two trails, one at 8 kilometres (about 5 miles), and the other at 37 kilometres (about 23 miles). Built in 2005 by then president Saparmurat Niyazov, the walk was aimed at improving the health of the citizens, ministers and parliament members. President Niyazov would force them all to volunteer for the longer route at least once per year. Since his death in 2006 the trail is no longer in as frequent use, and visitors often have free reign along the path.

The majority of the trails are a fairly easy walk and very scenic. However, there are no water or snack facilities so be sure to bring everything you will need. The trail is made of concrete so be sure to wear the proper shoes. While the trail originally did not include any shade providing objects, the current government has begun to plant trees near the trail, but proper protection from the sun is recommended. The trail is a short drive from the Parthian Fortress of Nisa, at about a 10-12 minute drive depending on where along the path you are dropped off. A popular access point is at the Turkmen-Turkish Friendship Park.