Karabakh Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of Karabakh with our comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to Karabakh
- List of Places to Visit in Karabakh
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Karabakh
- Best Things to Do in Karabakh: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Karabakh
- Food and Drink Scene of Karabakh
- Where to Stay in Karabakh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Karabakh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Karabakh
- Best Time to Visit Karabakh
- Do’s and Don’ts of Karabakh
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Karabakh: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Karabakh
- Where to Go Next from Karabakh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Karabakh
Karabakh, also known as Nagorno-Karabakh, is a disputed territory in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. Despite being internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, Karabakh is de facto controlled by ethnic Armenian authorities. Located between the Lesser Caucasus and Great Caucasus mountain ranges, Karabakh is home to breathtaking natural landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture.
List of Places to Visit in Karabakh
Whether you are interested in exploring ancient sites, indulge in outdoor activities or savor the local cuisine, Karabakh has something to offer for everyone. Here is a list of top-rated places to visit in Karabakh:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Stepanakert History Museum
- Gandzasar Monastery
- Dadivank Monastery
- Shushi’s Ghazanchetsots Cathedral
- Tigranakert Archaeological Site
Natural Attractions of Karabakh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Lake Sevan
- Maragha
- Khachik
- Zontik Waterfall
- Ughtasar Petroglyphs
Hiking/Biking Routes of Karabakh
Karabakh is a fantastic destination for hikers and bikers, with plenty of stunning trails to explore. Here are some well-known routes to take:
- Janapar Trail
- Dadivank – Barda River Circuit
- Khanaspur-Red Bridge Trail
- Mount Mrav Trail
- Zaqatala to Sheki Trail
Best Things to Do in Karabakh: Activities and Tours
- Take a Guided Tour of Shushi
- Hike to Lake Sevan
- Attend a Traditional Karabakh Dance Performance
- Explore the Tigranakert Archaeological Site
- Go Wine Tasting in the Areni Wine Region
Week-Long Itinerary for Karabakh
Day 1: Arrive in Stepanakert, the capital of Karabakh. Visit the Stepanakert History Museum and stroll around the central market.
Day 2: Explore Shushi, the cultural capital of Karabakh. Take a guided tour of the city and visit the Ghazanchetsots Cathedral.
Day 3: Hike to the Ughtasar Petroglyphs and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Day 4: Visit the Gandzasar Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its historic architecture and cultural significance.
Day 5: Go wine tasting in the Areni Wine Region and learn about the winemaking traditions of Karabakh.
Day 6: Take a day trip to Lake Sevan and hike around the area to take in the beautiful scenery.
Day 7: Spend the day in Dadivank Monastery and explore the nearby Barda River Circuit.
Food and Drink Scene of Karabakh
The local cuisine of Karabakh is a delicious blend of Azerbaijani and Armenian influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to savor while in Karabakh:
Must-Try Dishes
- Kebab
- Dolma
- Piti
- Lavash
- Baklava
Local Beverages
- Armenian brandy
- Tarkhun (a non-alcoholic carbonated drink made from tarragon)
- Matzun (Armenian yogurt)
- Shan tea (Armenian herbal tea)
- Dried fruit vodka
Where to Stay in Karabakh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Accommodations in Karabakh range from small guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some top-rated options:
- Europe Hotel in Stepanakert
- Kaputak Sevan Guesthouse
- Lusakert Hotel in Shushi
- Ani Hotel in Gandzasar
- Shahumyan Hotel in Martakert
What to Buy in Karabakh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Karabakh is known for its traditional handicrafts, including carpets, pottery, and artwork. Some popular souvenirs to buy while in Karabakh are:
- Karabakh wall art
- Armenian rugs
- Khachkars (traditional Armenian stone crosses)
- Traditional pottery and ceramics
- Dolma-making supplies
Local Culture and Customs of Karabakh
The people of Karabakh are known for their hospitality and warm generosity. Some cultural norms to be aware of before visiting Karabakh include:
- Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
- Eat with your right hand and drink with your left hand
- Avoid discussing sensitive political topics
Best Time to Visit Karabakh
The best time to visit Karabakh is between April and October when the weather is mild and sunny. During this period, you can participate in outdoor activities and explore the region’s natural beauty.
Do’s and Don’ts of Karabakh
Do:
- Try the local cuisine and drinks
- Explore the beautiful outdoor landscapes and architecture
- Respect local customs and traditions
Don’t:
- Discuss sensitive political topics
- Wear revealing clothing in public spaces
- Show disrespect to religious sites and customs
Safety and Health
Safety in Karabakh
Karabakh is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, visitors should be aware of the landmines remaining from past conflicts along the Armenian border.
Health in Karabakh
Medical facilities in Karabakh are limited, and travelers are advised to bring necessary prescriptions, vaccines, and medical supplies with them. It is also important to drink bottled water, wash hands regularly, and avoid street food to prevent any health issues.
Getting to Karabakh: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Karabakh
The nearest international airports to Karabakh are in Yerevan, Armenia and Baku, Azerbaijan. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Stepanakert.
Bus Stations Near Karabakh
There are bus services from Yerevan and Baku that take you directly to Stepanakert.
Other Options
You can also rent cars or hire local drivers to take you to Karabakh from nearby cities.
How to Get Around in Karabakh
The best way to get around Karabakh is by taxi or private car. You can also rent bicycles or motorbikes to explore the region’s natural beauty.
Where to Go Next from Karabakh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Yerevan, Armenia
- Baku, Azerbaijan
- Tbilisi, Georgia
- Lake Sevan, Armenia
- Dilijan, Armenia
Conclusion
Whether you’re interested in ancient history, stunning mountain scenery, or delicious food, Karabakh has everything to offer for your next travel adventure. With its welcoming community, rich cultural heritage and attractions, Karabakh is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the Caucasus region of Eurasia.
