Cable Car Ride into the Foothills of the Kopet Dag Mountains

I recently took the cable car up into the foothills of the Kopet Dag Mountains. The cable cars can be accessed at the bottom of the foothills, which rise to the terminal approximately 3,000 feet up the side of the mountain.

As the car climbed uphill, the winds increased and the air became increasingly cool. After 20 minutes riding uphill, the terminal grounds offered great views of the Kopet Dag Mountain range and the entire city of Ashgabat.

Relative Field of View

The foothills of the Kopet Dag Mountains facing East.

Facing North, the city of Ashgabat is clearly visible. Once the southern fringe of the former Soviet empire, post-Soviet development is easily distinguishable from the white marble buildings. It also puts into perspective how much of Ashgabat has evolved and grown since Turkmenistan's independence in 1991.

The foothills of the Kopet Dag Mountains facing West. Of in the distance, the giant TV tower can be seen.

Looking South, the Kopet Dag Mountains continue to rise for several thousand more feet. The mountains also serve as Turkmenistan's border with Iran.

Another great view looking West. To the north, a lone peak rises up dramatically from the rest of the foothills.