The story about the site is very interesting; however the site itself is unremarkable.
You mainly see reconstructed walls. The interesting column bases are covered by mounds of dirt to “protect” them.
It’s one of my favorite historical places to visit, but in summer it is very hot, best time to visit is in autumn spring
This truly ancient site lies a few miles outside Ashgabat in the foothills of the mountains, the other side of which lies Iran. To our surprise the fortress has not been unduly Disneyfied and our knowledgeable and enthusiastic academic guide brought the place alive for us in terms of what an important and busy city it must have been over two thousand years ago. The labelling and information provided is not very good, so you would be well advised to organise a guide, but the place in striking just as it stands with a dramatic location in the desert and the nearby mountains. What a contrast to the marble follies of Ashgabat that you can see from the Fortress itself.
I didn't find it impressive, especially if you have been to other ruins like Mary or other parts of the world. There was a viewing platform at the end of the stairway before you walk down the path to enter the main gate of the ruin. This view platform offers great panoramic view of Nisa as well Ashgabat, you can see it from afar.
Definitely take a guided tour so you know what to look at.
Lucky my visit was late afternoon in October so temperature very mild. Make sure if it is during warmer season you bring water and umbrella because the sight is very exposed to sun.
A guide is also needed to explain in details the ruins that you see.
