Visitors who wish to explore in-depth the landscape surrounding Nisa can venture onto hiking trails.

Serdar Health Walk

The hiking trail is paved, making it accessible to even beginner hikers who wish to enjoy the scenery. – © Daria Vasilyeva / Shutterstock

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 is 8 kilometres long and the other is 37 kilometres long. Feel free to go for as long or as little as you like, there's plenty to see along the whole stretch.

View of the trail from afar © Daria Vasilyeva / Shutterstock

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 Kopet-Dag mountains provide a scenic backdrop for the hike. © Resselyn / Shutterstock

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, the current government has begun to plant trees near the trail, but you should still bring sun protection.

The trail is a short drive from the Parthian Fortress of Nisa, and you can reach parts of it within about 10 minutes. A popular access point is at the Turkmen-Turkish Friendship Park.