Overland Travel Across Borders: A Tale of Two Frontiers
Bajgiran Howdan Mashhad Ashgabat Strict Schedule Gate
A legacy of Soviet-era formality and control still characterizes the nearly 1,200-kilometer border separating Iran from Turkmenistan. Crossing between these two nations is a deliberate and structured process, moving from the vibrant culture of Iran into one of Central Asia’s most regulated societies. Your experience will be shaped by strict procedures and a distinct lack of spontaneity.
Lotfabad Zone Trade Amid Desert Luggage Scrutiny
You have four main border crossings to choose from. The most common one for travelers is between Bajgiran, Iran, and Howdan, Turkmenistan, which is the closest to both Mashhad and Ashgabat. Another key crossing is at Sarakhs, a major rail and road link. Further east, you can cross at Lotfabad-Artyk, and there is a crossing at Gudurolum-Etrek in the west, though this is less frequently used by travelers.