The Serhetabat (Turkmenistan) – Torghundi (Afghanistan) border is one of the least-travelled frontiers in Central Asia, possibly the world, linking the Central Asian Republic of Turkmenistan with the South Asian country of Afghanistan. Turkmen city of Serhetabat to Torghundi in northwestern Afghanistan. It’s primarily a commercial and freight crossing but can be used by travellers on pre-arranged guided tours. The crossing offers a rare opportunity to move between Central Asia and Afghanistan, though it requires careful advance planning and strict compliance with each country’s entry rules. We will be exploring this border as part of our 7 stans tour. To see more information on the tours we have in Afghanistan, check out our website here .
Border Opening Hours
The Serhetabat–Torghundi border operates during daylight hours only.
Typical hours are 08:00 to 17:00, though in the middle of winter the border can close as early as 15:00. Lunch breaks are taken every day on the Turkmenistan side between 1pm and 2pm.
The border is closed on Fridays and Turkmenistan public holidays.
Always confirm your crossing date with your tour operator and plan to arrive early in the morning.
Travel Time to the Border
Since independent travel is not permitted for tourists in Turkmenistan, reaching the Serhetabat border must be organised by an approved Turkmen tour company.
From Mary (Turkmenistan): The drive covers about 307 kilometres, taking 6–7 hours on decent paved roads. Guides often break the trip with a rest stop in Bayramaly or Yolöten. Expect several police and document checkpoints en-route.
From Herat (Afghanistan): The road distance to Torghundi is about 125 kilometres. Even though it’s fully paved, poor maintenance and security checks mean it takes 2-3 hours. Tour companies in Herat can arrange guided car transfers with security escorts or experienced local drivers. Travelling independently or using public buses is not recommended for safety reasons.
Visa Requirements — Must Be Obtained in Advance
Both countries require travellers to have their visas issued in advance.
For Turkmenistan, visas are only granted once you have a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from a tour operator, such as Saiga Tours. The LOI process takes between two and four weeks, after which the visa is collected at an entry border point.
Afghanistan also requires an approved visa before arrival, obtained through an embassy or consulate. No visas are issued at Serhetabat or Torghundi.
Cash Is Essential
You must have cash at the border, as neither side has working ATMs or accepts cards. Bring crisp, clean US dollars (newer $10, $20, $50, and $100 notes). Torn, damaged, or old-series bills will be rejected.
You’ll need cash for the various fees you’ll need to pay if entering Turkmenistan (Visa fee, Migration Tax, Bank fee, PCR test).
Customs Rules — What You Can and Can’t Bring
Entering Turkmenistan:
Turkmen customs are among the strictest in the region and the Serhetabat border is probably the strictest in Turkmenistan. Expect baggage checks and possible searches of digital devices
- Prohibited: narcotics, weapons, drones, pornography, religious propaganda, and right-hand drive vehicles.
- Restricted: alcohol, tobacco, antiques, cultural artefacts, and large quantities of printed material. Pictures you have taken in Afghanistan of any individuals with guns will be deleted if found. Any Taliban related items will most likely be confiscated.
Entering Afghanistan:
Customs procedures at Torghundi are usually straightforward for guided groups, but the same prohibitions apply. Declare valuables honestly and keep cash declarations ready for both countries.
- Forbidden: weapons, military gear, narcotics, and some literature.
- Restricted: satellite phones, professional filming equipment, and large cameras (unless pre-approved).
Practical Tips for a Smooth Crossing
- Arrive early — ideally by 08:00. Processing can take 3–4 hours.
- Have your visas and LOIs printed and ready for inspection.
- Dress modestly, particularly when entering Afghanistan.
- Avoid photography near border zones or military installations.
- Bring water and snacks — facilities are basic on both sides.
Crossing the Serhetabat–Torghundi border is possible but should only be done as part of a pre-arranged guided itinerary. It’s not a casual land border like those elsewhere in Central Asia — it requires planning, coordination, and patience.
While Turkmenistan enforces tight tourism controls and Afghanistan carries security risks, those travelling with a reputable tour operator can experience a fascinating and historically important route — once part of the Soviet rail corridor linking Central Asia with the Indian subcontinent.
If this blog has inspired you to come with us to Turkmenistan or Afghanistan, check out our group tour options here .
