Text by the editorial team of MOOK Scenic Spots Travel & Lifestyle Network
The Darvaza Oasis (also known as Derweze) is located in the Karakum Desert, where daytime temperatures can soar up to 55°C, yet plummet to as low as -33°C at night. Hidden within this desolate landscape is a massive crater emitting a mysterious orange glow, shining brilliantly across the barren expanse and creating an eerie, otherworldly atmosphere. It has been famously dubbed the "Door to Hell" by outsiders.
The Door to Hell glows mysteriously at night. (Photo credit: teamdetour)
The crater continuously emits natural gas, keeping the flames burning for over forty years. (Photo credit: amusingplanet)
The "Door to Hell" is said to have been formed in 1971, when Turkmenistan was still part of the Soviet Union. Soviet geologists were exploring the area for natural energy resources when a drilling operation caused the ground to collapse, leaving behind this enormous crater.
The massive Door to Hell glows with an orange-red flame, casting interesting silhouettes of visitors. (Photo credit: teamdetour)
The fiery glow of the Door to Hell creates a mysterious and eerie scene in the barren desert. (Photo credit: teamdetour)
The collapse caused continuous leakage of natural gas and toxic gases. To prevent the spread of these harmful emissions, geologists decided to set the gas on fire, expecting it to burn out within days. However, unexpectedly, the flames have been burning for over forty years. What began as a “beautiful mistake” has now become a one-of-a-kind global wonder—a breathtaking and mysterious sight that fascinates all who see it, making it the region’s most famous attraction.
The Door to Hell glows mysteriously at night in the barren desert. (Photo credit: teamdetour)
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