Alem Cultural Center

The Alem centre in Ashgabat is a tower of around ninety five metres with a Ferris wheel built inside it rather than in the open air, the cabins running around a ring enclosed by the structure and glazing, which was recognised as the largest indoor wheel of its kind when it opened in 2012. The building is faced in white marble like most of the newer city, and the ride gives a view over the western districts.

What you actually see

• The enclosed wheel - a Ferris wheel built inside the structure rather than outdoors.
• The tower - a marble-faced building of around ninety five metres.
• The city view - the western districts of Ashgabat from the cabins.
• The 2012 record - the recognition as the largest indoor wheel of its type.

When to go

April to May and September to October are the pleasant months. The centre keeps evening hours when the city is lit. Summer heat makes daytime visits uncomfortable.

Honest expectations

The ride is brief for the cost and the glazing reduces the view. Opening hours are irregular. There is little else at the site.

Nearby

Ashgabat's centre is east, and Gypjak is west.