Altyn Asyr Bazaar, also known as the Tolkuchka Bazaar, is the largest and most vibrant market in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Situated on the outskirts of the city, the bazaar has become a hub for commerce and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Turkmen life.
The Altyn Asyr Bazaar traces its roots back to the Soviet era when Tolkuchka (meaning “pushy” in Russian) was a small market where people gathered to trade goods. Over time, the market expanded in size and importance, and in 2011, a new, modernized version of the bazaar was opened under the name “Altyn Asyr.” The new structure replaced the old market, covering an area of more than 150 hectares, making it one of the largest outdoor markets in Central Asia.
The market reflects the ancient Great Silk Road‘s trading spirit, where merchants from all over Turkmenistan and neighboring countries come to sell their goods. The range of products is vast, from traditional Turkmen carpets, textiles, and jewelry to livestock, fresh produce, spices, and household items. It is also a place for locals to buy and sell camels, a long-standing tradition in Turkmen culture.
