Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan: The Door to Hell

Vocabulary:

1. Crater – a large hole in the ground caused by an explosion or impact
2. Flames – hot, bright, burning gas that you see in a fire
3. Geologists – scientists who study the Earth and its structure
4. Accidentally – by mistake, not on purpose
5. Burning – on fire
6. Mysterious – strange and not well understood
7. Destination – the place where someone is going

✈️The Door to Hell

Have you ever wanted to visit a place that looks like it’s from another planet? Deep in the Karakum
Desert in Turkmenistan, there is a fiery hole in the ground called the Darvaza Gas Crater. Locals call it «The Door to Hell», and it’s one of the most mysterious places on Earth.
The story of this strange destination began in 1971. A group of geologists was looking for natural gas.
While drilling, the ground collapsed, creating a large crater. Dangerous gas started coming out, and the
scientists were worried it might harm people and animals nearby. So, they decided to burn it off. They
thought the fire would last only a few days. But they were wrong.
More than 50 years later, the crater is still burning! Flames and heat come from the hole day and night.
The glow from the fire can be seen from miles away. It’s an amazing and scary sight.
Although it was created accidentally, the Darvaza Gas Crater is now a popular travel spot for
adventurers. Tourists come from all over the world to see the burning pit, especially at night when the
fire is bright and dramatic. Some even camp nearby!
But not everyone thinks the fire should keep burning. Some people believe it’s bad for the environment.
The government of Turkmenistan has even considered closing the crater. For now, though, it continues
to burn, drawing curious travelers to this mysterious place.
Would you dare to visit the Door to Hell?

Comprehension Questions:

1. Where is the Darvaza Gas Crater located?
2. What is the crater also called by locals?
3. How was the crater formed?
4. Why did the scientists set it on fire?
5. How long has the crater been burning?

Critical Thinking Questions:

1. Do you think the Darvaza Crater should be closed to protect the environment? Why or why not?
2. Would you like to visit the crater? What would you want to see or feel there?