Northeastern Azerbaijan Travel Guide

Discover the must-visit places, things to do, and travel tips for a memorable trip to Northeastern Azerbaijan. Explore the cultural and natural wonders, food and drink scene, transportation, and local customs of this beautiful region in Caucasus, Asia.


Introduction to Northeastern Azerbaijan

Northeastern Azerbaijan is a region boasting a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural scenery. Located in the northeastern part of Azerbaijan, this region has numerous attractions and activities for tourists seeking an adventure in the Caucasus. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, Northeastern Azerbaijan has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll highlight the must-visit places and things to do in Northeastern Azerbaijan, including cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking trails, food and drinks, accommodations, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Northeastern Azerbaijan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in Azerbaijani history and culture, then the following museums and historical places should be on your must-visit list:

  • Azerbaijan Carpet Museum: Located in Baku, this museum showcases Azerbaijan’s rich carpet-weaving tradition through a collection of more than 10,000 carpets, rugs, and textile art.
  • Ganja History Museum: This museum in Ganja, the second-largest city in Azerbaijan, displays artifacts and exhibits related to the city’s history and culture, including archeological items, traditional costumes, and weapons.
  • Sheki Khan’s Palace: Built in the 18th century, this palace in Sheki exemplifies the traditional architectural style of Azerbaijan, with intricate woodcarvings, stained-glass windows, and frescoes.

Natural Attractions of Northeastern Azerbaijan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Northeastern Azerbaijan is full of natural wonders and outdoor activities. Here are some of the best natural attractions of the region:

  • Gabala Shooting Club: This club in Gabala offers visitors the chance to try shooting with different guns, including pistols, rifles, and shotguns.
  • Goygol Lake: Situated in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, this breathtaking lake is surrounded by stunning scenery and hiking trails.
  • Yanar Dag: Also known as the “burning mountain,” Yanar Dag near Baku is a natural gas fire that has been burning continuously for thousands of years.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northeastern Azerbaijan

Northeastern Azerbaijan is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with scenic routes that offer stunning views of the region’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails:

  • Shahdag National Park: Located in the Gusar region, this park boasts hundreds of kilometers of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
  • Laza Waterfall: This waterfall in Qusar is the highest waterfall in Azerbaijan and is accessible via hiking trails that wind through the forest.
  • Beshbarmaq Mountain: This mountain in Sheki offers challenging hikes that reward visitors with incredible views of the surrounding landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Northeastern Azerbaijan: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Northeastern Azerbaijan offers plenty of other exciting activities and tours, including:

  • Cave Exploration: Northeastern Azerbaijan has numerous caves that can be explored with experienced guides, including the Goygol Cave near the Goygol Lake.
  • Wine Tasting: The region is home to many vineyards and wineries, including Aspi Winery in Sheki and Savalan ASPI Winery in Gabala.
  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding tours are available in many parts of the region, allowing visitors to explore the countryside and mountains on horseback.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northeastern Azerbaijan

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Northeastern Azerbaijan, consider the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Baku city tour, including the Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah Palace, and Azerbaijan Carpet Museum.
  • Day 2: Exploring the natural wonders of Gobustan National Park, including the mud volcanoes and ancient rock carvings.
  • Day 3: Hiking in Shahdag National Park and visiting Gusar’s Juma Mosque.
  • Day 4: Visiting Sheki and its cultural landmarks, such as the Khan’s Palace and the Sheki History Museum.
  • Day 5: Wine tasting at the Aspi Winery and exploring the countryside of Gabala.
  • Day 6: Discovering the natural beauty of Qusar, including the Laza Waterfall and Goygol Lake.
  • Day 7: Visiting the picturesque mountain village of Khinalig and learning about its unique culture and traditions.

Food and Drink Scene of Northeastern Azerbaijan

Must-Try Dishes

Northeastern Azerbaijan is famous for its delicious cuisine, which features a mix of Iranian and Turkish influences. Here are some dishes you must try while in the region:

  • Piti: A stew made with lamb or beef, chickpeas, and chestnuts, traditionally cooked in a clay pot.
  • Sheki Halva: A sweet dessert made with flour, sugar, butter, and nuts, cooked and shaped into small flat cakes.
  • Qutab: A type of Azerbaijani stuffed flatbread, usually filled with herbs, meat, or cheese.

Local Beverages

Azerbaijan has a long tradition of tea drinking, with tea houses and tea gardens prevalent throughout the region. In addition, Azerbaijan is also known for its local wine industry. Here are some drinks you should try:

  • Chai: The Azerbaijani word for tea, served hot and typically sweetened with jam or sugar.
  • Sharbat: A sweet drink made with fruit syrups, water, and sugar, often served cold.
  • Local Wine: Azerbaijan has a growing wine industry, with several wineries located in the region, such as the Savalan ASPI winery in Gabala.

Where to Stay in Northeastern Azerbaijan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northeastern Azerbaijan has many accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some places to consider:

  • Hilton Baku: Located in the heart of Baku, this five-star hotel offers stunning views of the city and the Caspian Sea.
  • Qafqaz Riverside Resort Hotel: Situated in Gabala, this hotel offers modern amenities and stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains.
  • Sheki Saray Hotel: This hotel in Sheki is built in the traditional Azerbaijan style, with gorgeous wood carvings and ornate frescoes.

What to Buy in Northeastern Azerbaijan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Northeastern Azerbaijan, there are many traditional handicrafts and souvenirs to bring back home. Here are some ideas:

  • Azerbaijani Carpets: Carpets are a significant aspect of Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage, and there are many shops in Baku selling some of the best carpets in the country.
  • Sheki Sweets: Sheki city is renowned for its sweets and pastries, particularly baklava, pakhlava, and halva.
  • Pomegranate Products: Azerbaijan is known for its pomegranates, which are used in many local dishes and products, such as pomegranate juice, jam, and candies.

Local Culture and Customs of Northeastern Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a Muslim-majority country, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Dress Conservatively: It is customary to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or mosques.
  • Respect Ramadan: During the month of Ramadan, many locals fast from sunrise to sunset, and visitors should be mindful of this when eating, drinking, or smoking in public places.
  • Remove Shoes Inside: When entering someone’s home or a mosque, it is customary to remove your shoes.

Best Time to Visit Northeastern Azerbaijan

The best time to visit Northeastern Azerbaijan is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October), when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer than in summer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northeastern Azerbaijan

Do:

  • Try Local Dishes: Azerbaijani cuisine is tasty and unique, so try the local dishes and delicacies.
  • Be Respectful of Culture: Be respectful of Azerbaijani culture and customs, and dress conservatively in mosques or religious sites.
  • Learn Some Basic Words: Learn some basic Azerbaijani words and phrases, such as “Salam” (hello) and “Sagol” (thank you).

Don’t:

  • Take Photos of Locals Without Permission: Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals.
  • Drink Tap Water: It’s recommended to drink bottled water only, as tap water may not be safe for consumption.
  • Discuss Sensitive Topics: Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, or the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northeastern Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is generally a safe country to travel in, and Northeastern Azerbaijan is no exception. However, visitors should be aware of petty theft in crowded places, such as markets or tourist attractions.

Health in Northeastern Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has a good healthcare system, but visitors should take precautions to avoid illnesses such as travelers’ diarrhea, by practicing good hygiene and drinking bottled water only.

Getting to Northeastern Azerbaijan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northeastern Azerbaijan

The main airports in Azerbaijan are Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku and Ganja International Airport, with flights from major cities such as Istanbul, Moscow, and Dubai.

Bus Stations Near Northeastern Azerbaijan

Most cities in Azerbaijan have a bus station, and major cities such as Baku and Ganja have several bus stations serving different destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private driver to explore Northeastern Azerbaijan, as public transportation can be infrequent in some areas.

How to Get Around in Northeastern Azerbaijan

The best way to get around in Northeastern Azerbaijan is by car or taxi, as public transportation options can be limited. Taxis are plentiful in major cities, but make sure to confirm the price before entering the vehicle.

Where to Go Next from Northeastern Azerbaijan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northeastern Azerbaijan is just one part of Azerbaijan, and visitors can continue their journey to explore other regions, such as:

  • Sheki: Nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is known for its beautiful architecture, traditional handicrafts, and delicious sweets.
  • Lankaran: Located on the Caspian Sea, Lankaran is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and delicious seafood.
  • Nakhchivan: An autonomous republic within Azerbaijan, Nakhchivan is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including the Alinja Castle and the Ordubad Museum of History and Local Lore.

Conclusion

Northeastern Azerbaijan is a captivating region with a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. From exploring the historic landmarks and museums to hiking in the mountains and tasting the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Northeastern Azerbaijan. With this guide, you are now equipped to plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful part of the Caucasus.

Mountain road leading to Khinalug. Mountain road leading to Khinalug. Beshbarmaq Dash Beshbarmaq Dash Candy Cane Mountains Candy Cane Mountains


    Nabran
    Quba
    Qusar