Derweze, Turkmenistan

Gas crater of Derweze, which is better known to travelers under the dramatic name ‘Gates of hell’, is in Turkmenistan. Its diameter is about 60 meters and the depth is more than 20 meters. This natural phenomenon was discovered in 1971. Soviet geologists have discovered a large accumulation of gas and decided to drill an exploratory well. Contrary to the expectations of scientists, there was a void under the ground, which collapsed engulfing all equipment and machinery.

It’s notable that no people were injured in such a large-scale incident. Surface formed a hole, which continued to exude a gas, which it was decided to burn. Scientists believed that the fire would burn out within a couple of days, but the crater is still lit after 40 years. The crater looks incredibly appealing and frightening at the same time and you feel like you can enjoy wandering flames forever.

The height of some flames is 10-15 meters, so it’s very dangerous to come close to them. The crater has won its frightening name not accidentally, as it’s really impossible to get out of it, if someone has stumbled and fell inside. Exuded gas is also very dangerous, so the government of the country intends to bury the flaming crater. Every day, curious travelers come to the flaming crater. The most courageous approach to the steep slope and watch the gates of hell in all their awesome glory. Next - Shilin