Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Discover the Peaks, Paths, and Stories of the Land of Fire 🇦🇿
- Somil Singh
- Dec 18, 2024
- 21 min read
Updated: Jan 26
Azerbaijan Travel Guide: A Walk Through History
Azerbaijan’s history is a captivating tale of empires, oil, and resilience. Once a jewel of the Persian Empire (modern-day Iran), it absorbed Islamic traditions and rich cultural influences before becoming a battleground between Iran and the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey), creating a fascinating blend of East and West.
In the 19th century, Russia swept in, transforming Baku into a global oil hub and earning it the nickname “Black Gold Capital.” After a brief taste of independence in 1918, Azerbaijan was folded into the Soviet Union until reclaiming its freedom in 1991.
Today, it’s a vibrant nation known for its stunning carpets (a UNESCO-recognized craft), breathtaking landscapes from the Caspian Sea to the Caucasus Mountains, and its modern capital, Baku—a city where futuristic skyscrapers meet centuries-old bazaars.
The Azerbaijani Manat, powered by oil and natural gas exports, reflects the country’s economic growth. Ready to explore this land of fire and beauty? Let’s dive into this comprehensive Azerbaijan travel guide!!
Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Pre-Travel Checklist
Traveling from India to Azerbaijan involves a few essential steps. Here’s a concise guide to ensure a smooth journey:
Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan
The best time to visit Azerbaijan is from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes in spring or colorful foliage in autumn.
We visited Azerbaijan in the autumn season, where we were greeted by the stunning red and golden hues of nature, accompanied by refreshing, chilly winds. f you're planning a trip and want to know the best time to visit Azerbaijan, check out our detailed guide – Azerbaijan Travel Guide. It provides insights into the seasons, weather conditions, and the ideal times to explore this beautiful country.
Visa Process for Indian Citizens
Indian travelers can apply for an e-Visa through evisa.gov.az:
Processing Time: Standard - 3 business days; Expedited - 3 hours.
Required Documents: Passport (6-month validity), visa application, photo, travel insurance, flight tickets, accommodation proof, and financial documents.
Cost: Approximately Rs. 3,000/-. (We paid Rs. 2000/- as the Visa fee and another Rs. 1,000/- during verification process)
Flights from India to Baku
Direct Flights: IndiGo operates flights from New Delhi (DEL) to Baku (GYD).
Duration: ~5 hours 20 minutes.
Cost: ₹15,000–₹30,000 (one-way/round-trip) depending upon the season of travel.
Schedule: Operates on select days (check airline websites).
Immigration Process
Documents: Present passport, e-Visa, return/onward ticket, and accommodation proof.
Customs: Declare items as per local regulations.
Registration: Stays over 14 days require registration with the State Migration Service within 14 days of arrival.
Currency
Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN).
Conversation rate: AZN =~ Rs. 50/-
Exchange: Carry some AZN for initial expenses.
Pro Tip: Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities.
ATM:
In Azerbaijan, ATMs from Kapital Bank, ABB Bank, and Premium Bank allow withdrawals in both Azerbaijani Manat and USD, including at Baku’s Heydar Aliyev Airport.
Withdrawal fees vary by bank and card issuer, typically ranging from 1% to 3%. It’s best to check with your card provider for exact charges.
Mobile Network and SIM Cards
Azerbaijan has excellent mobile coverage, with three major providers offering tourist-friendly plans:
Azercell: Best network coverage, SIMs from 20-25 AZN (~₹1000–₹1250). (We used and recommend this one!)
Bakcell: Budget-friendly plans, SIMs from 15-20 AZN (~₹750–₹1000).
Nar: Generous data offers, SIMs from 15 AZN (~₹750).
Where to Buy: Airports, telecom stores, malls.
Documents Required: Passport and visa.
Plans:
Data: 3–10 GB (15-25 AZN). Unlimited plans from 50 AZN.
Validity: 7–30 days.
Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Additional Tips
Wi-Fi: Free in hotels, cafes, and public places.
Roaming: Indian SIMs work but are expensive; local SIMs are better.
Transportation: Use taxis, buses, or Baku’s metro for easy city travel. We have separately covered this in detail here.
By following this guide, your trip to Azerbaijan will be hassle-free and enjoyable!
Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Getting Around
There are several ways to explore Azerbaijan, each offering a unique travel experience. Here’s a list of the most popular options, each of which are explained in detail below:
Hired Cab Services
Self-drive Cars
Guided Tours
Metros
Hired Cab Services
Hired cabs are one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to get around Azerbaijan, especially if you prefer not to drive or want to explore without worrying about navigation.
Pro-Tips!
Booking apps
You can book cabs easily through apps like Bolt, Uber or other local taxis which are widely used across the country.
Fares and its related caution
The fares are reasonable, and the service is generally reliable. However, a common problem often faced by tourists is of drivers canceling rides after passengers had entered the cab, demanding higher fares or insisting on full cash payments instead of app-based transactions.
Through our eyes!
We used the Bolt app service to travel within the Baku city and by rule always opted for premium cab services. Although they were slightly more expensive, they provided a smooth and stress-free experience. Booking premium services ensured reliability, comfort, and peace of mind, and we had no complaints whatsoever. It made our entire journey much more enjoyable.
Self-Drive Cars in Azerbaijan
Exploring Azerbaijan by self-drive car is a fantastic way to experience the country at your own pace. Several companies offer a wide range of rental vehicles, including 4x4s, hatchbacks, and sedans, which can be rented for a few days or more.
Finding these companies is easy with a simple Google search, but make sure to check their authenticity by reviewing their Instagram pages, websites, and overall responsiveness.
Pro-Tips!
Driving Licence
Indians do not require an international driving license or permit to drive in Azerbaijan.
Deposit Requirement
You’ll need to submit a hard copy of your driving license along with a refundable security deposit when booking the car. The deposit amount can be in either currency even Indian rupee. This deposit is returned at the end of your trip.
Right-side Driving
All vehicles are Right-side drive. It might take some time to adjust, so take it slow initially to get used to it.
Vehicle Choice
Opt for a 4x4 vehicle, especially if you plan to explore northern regions where the roads can be tricky.
Navigation
Download the Waze app, as it’s widely used in Azerbaijan and offers detailed traffic updates, speed camera alerts, diversions, and accident reports. Google Maps is not as reliable in this region.
Fuel Stops
Some of the best petrol stations are AZPetrol, SoCar, LukOil. Rest assured, gas stations are easily available along most routes.
Rest Stops
Most petrol stations are well-equipped with restroom facilities however its better to check on maps and plan accordingly to avoid unnecessary situations.
Road Quality
The road infrastructure is excellent, with sophisticated systems and widespread security cameras.
Speed limits
Adhere to speed limits to avoid fines or penalties, as speed cameras are present throughout the country.
Other necessary items
While on the road, make sure to carry enough snacks and water, as there are limited restaurants or cafes along the highways. Petrol stations do have basic supplies, but they aren’t very frequent, so plan accordingly.
Through our eyes!
We opted for a self-drive car to explore the cities of Azerbaijan, and it was an incredible experience. The freedom to stop and admire breathtaking views made the journey unforgettable.
We booked our vehicle through Best Rent LLC, a highly-rated car rental service on Google with a decent Instagram presence. The staff was professional and helpful, though they did give us a normal SUV car instead of the it's 4*4 version we had booked. Double-check the vehicle you’re provided with to avoid such issues.
Here's the link of the rental cab service - https://bakurentacar.az/en/
Rental costs range between ₹3,000 and ₹10,000 and beyond per day, depending on your budget and vehicle choice. We rented a 4x4 Hyundai Tucson (automatic) for ₹6,000 per day.
Guided Tours
Guided tours are an excellent option for hassle-free and relaxed travel. They save you from the stress of planning and navigating.
If you’re interested in guided tours, platforms like Klook offer reliable and cost-effective options. We didn’t opt for a guided tour this time, but they are worth considering if you prefer a more structured travel experience.
Here's the link for the same - https://www.klook.com/en-IN/search/result/?query=azerbaijan
Public Transport in Baku
Baku has a well-maintained public transport system, including buses and a metro network, making it easy to get around the city.
Pro-Tips!
Travel cards
You’ll need a travel card, which can be purchased at metro and bus stations. Ensure your card has sufficient balance for your trips.
Accessibility
Buses and metros are affordable and widely available, but they may get crowded during peak hours.
Through our eyes!
We didn’t use buses but decided to try the metro for the experience. While functional, the metro system felt a bit dated and crowded, similar to a regular metro in most cities.
Getting a travel card was slightly tedious, so unless you plan to extensively use public transport, it might not be worth the effort.
While the metro is a good budget-friendly option, it’s not a must-try unless you’re genuinely curious or looking to save on transportation.
This guide will help you choose the best way to explore Azerbaijan based on your preferences, whether you’re up for an adventurous self-drive experience or a relaxed guided tour.
Azerbaijan Travel Guide: Day-wise Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Baku
What makes it famous?
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. On our first day, we explored some of the city’s iconic spots while soaking in its lively atmosphere.
Highlights You Can’t Miss!
Nizami Street
This bustling pedestrian street is the heart of Baku’s social life. Lined with cafes, shops, and beautiful architecture, it’s the perfect place to sip coffee, people-watch, or indulge in retail therapy. It comes alive in the evenings with street performers and a vibrant crowd.
The Carpet Museum
Shaped like a rolled-up carpet, this museum is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. It showcases a stunning collection of traditional Azerbaijani carpets, each telling a unique story of the country’s heritage.
The Area Around the Carpet Museum
This spot is packed with attractions like the Baku Eye (a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning views of the city), Little Venice (a charming canal area with gondola rides), and a Funicular that takes you uphill to the Old Town. Don’t forget to grab a fresh Anaar (pomegranate)juice from the stalls nearby — it’s the national fruit and absolutely delicious.
City of Cats
Azerbaijan could easily be nicknamed “Cat Town” 🐈⬛ because you’ll find cats everywhere, lounging in every nook and corner, much like street dogs in India. Interestingly, while exploring Baku, we didn’t come across a single street dog — a peculiar observation that added to the city’s unique charm.
Through our eyes!
We started the day by working from a cozy cafe on Nizami Street, surrounded by the lively energy of the city. After soaking in the vibe, we visited the Carpet Museum and explored the scenic area around it, taking in the views from the Baku Eye and strolling through Little Venice.
Later, we indulged in a dessert spree at Sheki Sweet Home. This sweet shop is heaven for dessert lovers. Known for its authentic teas and baklava, it was an absolute highlight for us. We packed a couple of boxes intending to take them home, but they didn’t survive the trip — we devoured them well before leaving. If you have a sweet tooth, this place will make you fall in love with Azerbaijani desserts! The day ended on a sweet and satisfying note, quite literally!
Day 2: Exploring Baku
Our second day in Baku was packed with culture, history, and a few surprises that showcased the city’s unique charm.
Highlights You Can’t Miss!
Heydar Mosque
An architectural marvel, this mosque stands as one of the largest in the country. Its pristine white structure and intricate design make it a serene spot for reflection and admiration.
Heydar Aliyev Centre
Designed by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid, this futuristic building is a symbol of modern Baku. The flowing curves and innovative design make it a visual treat, and the exhibitions inside offer a glimpse into Azerbaijani culture and history.
Old Baku City (Icherisheher)
The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and charming cafes. It’s like stepping back in time as you explore the narrow alleys and watch locals play backgammon. The area is also dotted with souvenir shops and Anaar juice stalls, adding to its charm.
The Palace of the Shirvanshahs
This historic palace complex was once home to the rulers of Azerbaijan. While much of it is in ruins, it’s still worth a visit to explore the tombs, courtyards, and remnants of its former grandeur.
Through our eyes!
The day began with a visit to the stunning Heydar Mosque, followed by the Heydar Aliyev Centre. For lunch, we enjoyed a meal at an authentic Azeri restaurant, sampling vegetarian dishes made with eggplant, tomatoes, potatoes, and mushrooms. The flavors, though subtle compared to Indian cuisine, were delightful. We also tried an assortment of local desserts, which were mostly dry fruit-based and a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.
In the afternoon, we wandered through the cobblestone streets of Old Baku City, soaking in the historic vibe. We watched locals engrossed in backgammon and explored the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, which offered a glimpse into Azerbaijan’s royal past.
After a quick coffee break, we experienced the city’s metro system. Though functional, it was crowded and felt slightly dated. Later, we picked up our rental car from Best Rent LLC, carefully inspecting it and filming the condition for safety. Driving a right-side vehicle for the first time was an adventure, made even more thrilling by the unexpected downpour.
We ended the day early, preparing for a long drive the next morning.
Our first two days in Baku gave us a mix of vibrant city life and rich cultural heritage. The balance between modern attractions and historical sites made it a perfect start to our Azerbaijani adventure.
Pro-Tips!
A quick note for travelers — food delivery apps in Baku are not very reliable, as it took two hours for our dinner to arrive.
While the city’s traffic is well-regulated, it can be as chaotic as any major metropolitan area.
Baku is famously known as the “City of Winds,” and it truly lives up to its name. The strong winds can make the weather feel much chillier than it actually is. If you’re traveling during the autumn or winter months, packing warm clothing is essential. A good windcheater or jacket will be your best friend to shield you from the gusts while exploring the city comfortably.
Day 3: Baku > Shamakhi > Sheki
Through our eyes!
This day was all about hitting the road, soaking in the stunning Azerbaijani landscapes, and making memorable stops along the way. We dedicated the day to traveling from Baku to Sheki, reaching our destination by late evening after exploring a few key spots en route.
The Journey
The drive to Sheki was nothing short of breathtaking. The roads were a dream— they were smooth, clean, and free of potholes, making for a comfortable ride. Only a small percentage of roads resembled typical Indian roads, with cracked and uneven surfaces, mostly found in small towns along the highways or northern remote regions.
The scenery along the way was mesmerizing. Rolling hills stretched endlessly, crowned by clouds that seemed to change with every turn. The landscape featured a blend of dry, arid terrain in soft shades of brown and green, dotted with hardy plants growing in the pale, dusty ground. The raw beauty of nature was both calming and awe-inspiring, making it impossible to put our cameras down.
Stop 1: Shamakhi
What makes it famous?
Located 120 km west of Baku, Shamakhi is one of Azerbaijan’s oldest cities and was once the capital of the Shirvanshah dynasty. This historic town is a blend of rich history and scenic charm. Two key landmarks here are:
Juma Mosque: Built in the 8th century, this mosque has survived numerous earthquakes and remains a symbol of resilience and history.
Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum: A fascinating architectural site with a rich historical backdrop.
Through our eyes!
Shamakhi was our first stop, taking around 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach from Baku. We spent some time marveling at the historical structures and soaking in the town’s serene vibe. As we left Shamakhi and headed north, the landscape changed dramatically, transitioning from arid hills to lush green fields filled with grapevines and olive trees. The crisp, fresh air was a refreshing contrast to the dry plains we had just crossed.
Stop 2: Alpaca Azerbaijan
What makes it famous?
This hidden gem is the only place in Azerbaijan where you can interact with Alpacas, adorable and fluffy animals originally imported from South America. Known for their shy nature, these animals take their time to warm up to visitors but are an absolute delight once they do.
Through our eyes!
Visiting this Alpaca farm had been on my bucket list for a while, and it did not disappoint! We fed the alpacas, learned about their history and daily routine, and took plenty of pictures. The experience was heartwarming and unique.
It’s important to book your visit in advance. For two people, the cost was around Rs. 4,000 for an hour, which included feeding the animals and a detailed chat with the caretaker. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, we can’t recommend Alcapa Azerbaijan enough!
Lunch Stop: A Winery Restaurant
What makes it famous?
Nestled within a vineyard and overlooking a serene lake, this charming restaurant offered a picturesque setting that was the perfect blend of nature and gastronomy.
Through our eyes!
We stopped here for a late lunch and tried green qutab, a local vegetarian dish that resembled India’s maida palak paratha but had its own unique twist. It was served with thick, creamy curd, and the simple yet delicious flavors felt like comfort food in the truest sense. The peaceful surroundings added to the experience, making this stop a highlight of the day.
Unexpected Stop: Fresh Pomegranate Juice
As we continued our journey, we spotted a roadside stall selling freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. Being unable to resist, we pulled over for a quick break. The juice was unbelievably fresh, sweet, and refreshing—just the pick-me-up we needed for the rest of the drive.
Arrival in Sheki
We finally reached Sheki around 10 PM and checked into The Sheki Palace, a beautiful hotel that turned out to be one of our favorite stays of the trip. Its prime location, just a short walk from the famous Sheki Palace, made it the perfect base for exploring the area over the next two days.
After a long yet fulfilling day on the road, we called it a night, excited for the adventures awaiting us in Sheki.
Day 4: Exploring Sheki
What makes it famous?
Sheki, a charming city in northwest Azerbaijan and is home to the Sheki Khans’ Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate stained glass and frescoes.
Through our eyes!
After a delightful breakfast spread, we set out to explore the charming town of Sheki on foot. Sitting at an elevation of about 1,600 feet above sea level, Sheki is surrounded by the majestic Caucasus Mountain range. Visiting in autumn meant we were greeted by a stunning palette of orange and gold tones on the mountains, still untouched by snow. The temperature during our trip stayed between -1°C and 6°C, making it a crisp and refreshing experience.
The town is dotted with streams and rivers flowing down from the mountains, adding to its serene beauty. Be sure to pause by one of these streams for a moment of absolute peace. These sparkling waterways run alongside Sheki’s narrow roads, with one side lined by traditional tandoor bread shops, dessert stalls, and roadside vendors selling all sorts of goods.
To truly understand Sheki, we decided to immerse ourselves in its daily life. We wandered through the residential neighborhoods, visited a local school, and explored the bustling vegetable market. The atmosphere felt strikingly similar to a small Indian town but with cleaner streets and a quieter charm.
A unique feature of Sheki is the abundance of Ladas—vintage cars in every color imaginable. To complete the experience, we hopped into one for a ride back to The Sheki Palace, the historic residence of Sheki Khan.
The Sheki Palace area is vastly spread out and also incompasses a cultural and heritage preservation center. Its beautiful to learn the art of glass interiors used extensively in the Palace and about production of silk and other interesting aspects related to history and culture.
The Sheki Palace itself is a marvel. Its intricate architecture is breathtaking, with stunning details in every corner. Unfortunately, photography wasn’t allowed, so the beauty of the place remains etched only in our memories.
Had a good chat over local tea with a local restaurant owner who had great interest in history and knew alot about India, its culture and similarities with Azerbaijan.
Interestingly, Sheki is just a few kilometers away from the Russian border. This means some of the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains visible from Sheki may actually be in Russia, adding an intriguing element to this already magical place.
Day 5: Gobustan > Return to Baku
Stop 1: Gobustan
Located just 64 kilometers from Baku, we stopped at Gobustan on our way back. It was roughly an hour’s drive, and the fascinating site was the perfect detour to explore before returning to the city.
What makes it famous?
Gobustan is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ancient rock carvings that date back over 5,000 years. We were amazed by how these petroglyphs tell the stories of early human life, giving us a rare glimpse into the past.
Highlights you can't miss!
Gobustan offers a mix of ancient and natural wonders:
Petroglyphs – Rock carvings over 5,000 years old, depicting early life and animals.
Mud Volcanoes – Unique, therapeutic mud volcanoes with a surreal landscape.
Gobustan National Museum – Displays artifacts and information on the area’s history.
Gaval Dash – A prehistoric stone thought to be an ancient musical instrument.
Duzdag Salt Mine – A lesser-known salt mine with healing properties.
Through our eyes!
What really stood out to us were the unique mud volcanoes scattered across the landscape, adding an otherworldly touch to the area. We spent a lot of time marveling at the petroglyphs and enjoying the stunning, rugged terrain. Gobustan truly felt like stepping back in time!
Day 6: Candycane Mountains - Laza Village - Shahdag - Qusar/Quba
There’s no direct route from Sheki to Quba, so you must return to Baku, making the journey more complex. While it’s tiring and takes a full day, well-planned breaks make it manageable and worthwhile.
Stop 1: Candycane mountains
What makes it famous?
The Candy Cane Mountains are a stunning natural wonder, known for their red-and-white striped formations caused by unique mineral deposits. Located near the Khizi region, these hills resemble giant candy canes, offering a surreal and picturesque landscape that attracts nature lovers and photographers.
Time
Its 90 kilometers from Baku, and it took us roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach there.
Through our eyes!
The zigzag road to Candycane is just as fun as it is beautiful. This area isn’t just about one or two hills you can find on a map. It’s full of mountains in all shapes and sizes. Look out for the ones you find most stunning, and take a moment to stop, climb, snap some photos, and enjoy the view.
Stop 2: Laza Village
What makes it famous?
Nestled in the Caucusus mountains of northern Azerbaijan, is a scenic gem known for its stunning waterfalls, lush greenery, grazing horses, cozy tea stalls and overall serene atmosphere. The village is not as famous but it could be a perfect spot for nature lovers and hikers.
Distance and time
Its 150 kilometers from the Candycane mountains, and it took us roughly 4 hours to reach there
Through our eyes!
It’s a peaceful spot with plenty of charm, but getting there can be a bit tricky. The roads to Laza are rough and not well-maintained, so driving can be challenging, especially without a 4x4 or if you’re not experienced.
Once in the village, there are no proper roads, and with snow everywhere, cars can easily drift, making it risky.
If you’re an adventurous traveler seeking rugged, raw experiences, Laza will definitely appeal to you.
Stop 3: Shahdag Mountain Resort
What makes it famous?
Shahdag Mountain Resort is Azerbaijan's premier winter destination, offering a variety of ski slopes and year-round activities.
Distance and time
Its 44 kilometers from Quba, the journey by car takes about 50 minutes, depending on road conditions.
Through our eyes!
We decided to skip exploring Shahdag as nothing really caught our interest. The resort felt more like an Indian amusement park, with almost every corner bustling with Indian tourists!
Final Stop: Quba/Qusar
What makes it famous?
Quba, located in northern Azerbaijan, is known for its lush landscapes, apple orchards, and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the stunning Caucasus Mountains and is home to unique attractions like the ancient mountain village of Khinalug and vibrant carpet-weaving traditions.
Accommodation
We stayed in a town called Qusar near Quba for a day and booked an entire home via airbnb. We had a lovely stay!
Day 8: Village Khinaliq
What makes it famous?
Khinaliq is one of the oldest and highest villages in Azerbaijan, sitting over 2,000 meters up in the mountains. With its cozy stone houses and stunning views, it’s like stepping back in time. The village is full of charm and gives you a peek into a simple, traditional way of life.
Distance and time
It is about 90 kilometers from Quba, and the drive typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on road conditions. The journey is scenic but can be challenging, as the roads are narrow and winding in some areas.
Through our eyes!
The Journey
Waze app showed us two routes to Khinaliq, but we chose the one that was nearly half the time of the other (The North Route). The road to Khinaliq is as stunning as it is risky, offering nature at its purest and most jaw-dropping. I’m convinced this is what heaven must look like!
Our journey from Quba started with lush green mountains on both sides of the road. In some turns, we caught glimpses of a river flowing freely. As we continued, we could see snow-capped peaks in the distance. But soon, to my surprise, the snow that had once seemed so far away was suddenly surrounding us on both sides. Just roughly five minutes into it, we drove right into a thick cloud, and for several minutes, visibility was near zero.
The network was gone, the map was useless, and all we could see was the thick fog and absolutely nothing else. In that moment, I honestly didn’t know if we’d make it out— I folded my hands, thinking of all the people I love. I closed my eyes for a second, but just as I did, the cloud began to lift, and what I saw next was something I’d only seen on TV— and never believed was real until that moment.
There we were, on an empty road, with snow-covered mountains on either side. The sky was a perfect, pure blue, and clouds were rolling in from a nearby mountain range. This beautiful stretch went on for kilometers, and we started to feel a bit uneasy since we hadn’t seen a single person or car for the longest time. Just as we began to wonder if we were lost, we were met by a herd of sheep and two shepherds coming from the other direction. It felt like magic.
We continued crossing countless mountains until we finally arrived at the breathtaking village of Khinaliq, tucked away in the heart of it all.
Khinaliq
Upon reaching Khinaliq, we parked our car in front of a government school, where we saw children playing football and flying paper airplanes. The kids of Khinaliq were exactly as you’d expect—pure, playful, and refreshingly honest. Despite the language barrier, they were warm and friendly, responding to our gestures with smiles and curiosity.
As we strolled further, we stopped at a tiny shop offering snacks, tea, and smokes. We asked for tea, and the shopkeeper very kindly arranged chairs for us outside so we could enjoy the stunning mountain views. The tea came with two local toffees—simple, yet so delightful! When it was time to pay, we realized we didn’t have change for a larger note, but the shopkeeper waved it off. His generosity really touched us.
After exploring the village on foot, we stopped for lunch at a quaint humble home stay. The meal was simple but incredibly tasty—flavorful and satisfying, perhaps made even better by the purity of the ingredients and our hunger. It was truly a meal to remember.
The villagers were so warm and welcoming, sending us off with a proper goodbye that made our time in Khinaliq even more special.
Return Voyage to Baku
The road back to Quba was one of the toughest drives we’ve ever experienced. We ended up taking the alternate route suggested by Waze—the one we initially avoided—and quickly realized why we had been right to choose the northern route earlier. While the first route was scenic and smooth, this return journey was nothing short of a nightmare.
The road was full of broken patches, with loose mountain stones scattered everywhere, making driving both challenging and exhausting. The worst part came when we reached a bridge over a river, only to find it broken. With no other option, we had to drive through the river itself to cross to the other side of the mountain. A kind local driver guided us, despite the language barrier, and we were so grateful for his help.
The path wound through rocky mountain terrain, and at one point, the road narrowed into gorge-like structures. It was risky and dangerous, requiring extreme caution at every turn. The journey was so tiring and nerve-wracking that I hardly remember enjoying the snow-capped mountains that surrounded us. It was an adventure we won’t forget—but not for the right reasons!
Make sure to take this adventure only under a local guide is my strong advice!
Famous Spots We Didn’t Get to Explore
Ganja: Azerbaijan’s second-largest city, famous for its history, parks, and landmarks like the Nizami Mausoleum. It’s about 360 km from Baku (4-5 hours by car).
Gabala: Known for scenic landscapes, adventure activities, and Tufandag Mountain Resort. It’s 220 km from Baku (3-4 hours by car).
Goygol Lake: Famous for its turquoise waters and natural beauty, perfect for hiking. It’s 320 km from Baku (4 hours by car).
Fire Temple of Zoroastrians (Ateshgah): Located 30 km from Baku, is a 17th-18th century temple built around a natural gas fire. It is famous for its unique architecture and significance as a Zoroastrian pilgrimage site.
End of the Adventure
As our Azerbaijan adventure comes to an end, we leave with hearts full of memories, bellies full of delicious food, and cameras full of stunning landscapes. From the majestic Caucasus Mountains to ancient palaces and cuddly alpacas, every moment was a perfect blend of culture, beauty, and fun. Until next time, Azerbaijan—you've been amazing!
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