Khajapil and the Dinosaur Plateau: A Mystery of Turkmenistan

In the southeastern part of Turkmenistan, in a mountain valley, lies the village of Khajapil, which translates to "Sacred Elephants." Just 3 kilometers from it, at an altitude of 1800 meters, is a unique sloping plateau measuring 400x300 meters, covered with more than 3000 dinosaur footprints left 140-150 million years ago.

This site is one of the most unique in the world, and many of its mysteries remain unsolved. Special attention was drawn to footprints that might belong to humans, raising scientific debates about the origin of humanity.

How to Get There?

The road to Khajapil is challenging but breathtaking. After the village of Koyten, the road becomes very rough, and it’s best to use an off-road vehicle for a comfortable journey. Khajapil is located at an altitude of 1200-1300 meters, and the surrounding mountains create a picturesque landscape.

What Awaits You at the Plateau?

The plateau, 400 meters long and 300 meters wide, is covered with dinosaur footprints, including those of Megalosaurus, Iguanodon, and Tyrannosaurus. Around 3000 footprints and 31 dinosaur trails have been recorded, some of which reach a record length of 311 meters.

Archaeological Discoveries

The plateau has been known to locals for centuries. According to legend, the dinosaur footprints were considered the tracks of elephants from the army of Alexander the Great. In 1983, footprints believed to belong to humanoid creatures were discovered, challenging conventional views on human evolution.

Visiting the Plateau

The plateau attracts many tourists, and locals are happy to share this unique site. From the plateau, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountains and the valley, making it a true witness to the ancient history of our planet.