Hojapil Sanctuary

Hojapil Sanctuary is a sanctuary (zakaznik) of Turkmenistan and a part of Köýtendag Nature Reserve.[1] It was established in 1986.[2]

Hojapil Sanctuary
LocationLebap Province,  Turkmenistan
Area17,532 ha
Established1986

Sites

Dinosaur Plateau

An inclined limestone slab—spanning about 0.5 km in length and 0.2 km in width—preserving hundreds of dinosaur footprints, is a popular tourist attraction.[1] The site was discovered by Soviet geologist in the 80s; Turkmen scientists propose the evidence to be suggestive of three new dinosaur species: Gissarosaurus, Hojapilosaurus, and Turkmenosaurus.[1] In local tradition, the footprints were cast by elephants belonging either to the forces of Alexander the Great or some returning pilgrim from India.[1]

Kyrk Gyz Cave

A sacred site in Turkmen tradition, the floor of the cave has a tomb.[1] Local legends explain the cave to have been created in an act of God, when 40 women — fearing capture by rogues — prayed for protection.[1]

Umbardepe Canyon

A waterfal l— having a height of 27 m. — is popular among tourists.[1]

References
  1. Brummell, Paul (2005). Turkmenistan. Bradt Travel Guides. p. 198. ISBN 978-1-84162-144-9.
  2. "Türkmenistanyò Tebigaty goramak ministrligi. Düzgünnama". Archived from the original on 2009-06-09.

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