Tejen


Tejen is an oasis city in the Karakum Desert, in Ahal Province of Turkmenistan. It lies along the M37 highway, between Dushak and Mary, by road southeast of Ashgabat. It has a population of approximately 52,000. To the east is the larger oasis of Merv.
The town contains the Charman Ahun Mosque, the Hotel Tejen, and numerous fertiliser and textiles factories.

History

In 1883 it was occupied by General Komarov during the Russian conquest of Turkestan.
In 1916, when the Turkmens participated in a revolt against the Russians, Tejen was a hotbed of activity.

Economy

Tejen is known for its melon production, and contains numerous fertiliser and textiles factories.
It is also known for its narcotics, which are known locally as "Tejen tea".

Landmarks

The town contains the Charman Ahun Mosque and the Hotel Tejen.

[Wildlife]

Historical records indicate that the Caspian tiger occurred in this region.

Transport

It is a stop on the Trans-Caspian railway, and in the 1996 a new line to Mashhad in Iran was opened.