Qabala Travel Guide

Planning to visit Qabala? Check out our comprehensive guide to Qabala that offers detailed insights into where to go, what to see, and what to do in Qabala.


Introduction to Qabala

Qabala is a beautiful city located in the Sheki Region of Azerbaijan, in the Caucasus Mountains. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. The city is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international travellers. Qabala has something for everyone, from historical sites to adventure activities.

List of Places to Visit in Qabala

If you are planning a trip to Qabala, here are the must-visit places in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Qabala Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Qabala region, including displays of local clothing, weaponry, and jewellery.

  • Nohur Gol Lake: This beautiful lake is situated in a mountainous area and is ideal for hiking and trekking.

Natural Attractions of Qabala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tufandag Winter and Summer Complex: This modern complex offers skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking and paragliding in summer. Encompassed by eye-catching landscapes of the Caucasus, it is a must-visit attraction in Qabala.

  • Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum: This 18th-century burial site is a stunning example of Qabala’s rich cultural heritage.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Qabala

Qabala is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The city offers a wide range of trails suitable for all kinds of hikers, from amateurs to experienced trekkers. The following are the most popular hiking and biking routes in Qabala:

  • Tufandag Ski and Summer Resort: Hiking and trekking in this area offer beautiful views of the entire Qabala region.

  • Birgana Gorge: This trail is ideal for experienced hikers as it’s a challenging route.

Best Things to Do in Qabala: Activities and Tours

Qabala offers a wide range of activities for tourists of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in Qabala:

  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Qabala, with plenty of opportunities to explore the countryside on horseback.

  • Paragliding: Experience the thrill of air sports, and take in the spectacular views of the Caucasus Mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Qabala

If you plan to stay in Qabala for a week, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the Qabala Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum
Day 2 Hike in the Tufandag Mountains
Day 3 Visit Nohur Gol Lake or take a horseback ride
Day 4 Experience the thrill of air sports or visit Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum
Day 5 Skiing or snowboarding in Tufandag Winter Complex
Day 6 Visit Sheki city
Day 7 Visit nearby villages and explore the local culture

Food and Drink Scene of Qabala

Qabala is known for its mouth-watering local cuisine, which is a blend of Turkish and Azerbaijani dishes. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Qabala:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Plov: This is a traditional Azerbaijani rice dish made with saffron and served with meat, vegetables, and dried fruits.

  • Dolma: This is a stuffed vegetable dish that features grape leaves filled with ground beef or lamb and rice.

Local Beverages

  • Chay: Azerbaijani tea is the most popular drink served in Qabala, made with black tea leaves and served in a traditional glass.

  • Sherbet: This sweet drink is made from fruit syrups and water and is often served during festivals and celebrations.

Where to Stay in Qabala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Qabala offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in Qabala:

  • Qafqaz Riverside Hotel: A luxury four-star hotel set in a picturesque location by the Kish River.

  • Tufandag Hotel & Suites: A deluxe hotel located conveniently close to the Tufandag Winter and Summer Complex.

What to Buy in Qabala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Qabala offers a variety of souvenir options, handmade crafts, local spices, and honey, and wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Qabala

Religion is an essential part of the culture in Qabala, and visitors are expected to be respectful in and around religious sites. It is customary to greet elders with respect and to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or religious site.

Best Time to Visit Qabala

The best time to visit Qabala is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are many outdoor activities available. Winter is also a popular season for skiing and snowboarding in Tufandag.

Do’s and Don’ts of Qabala

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Learn some basic Azerbaijani phrases.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of religious sites without permission.

  • Drink tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Qabala

Qabala is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always advisable to take the necessary precautions and remain vigilant, especially at night.

Health in Qabala

Visitors to Qabala are advised to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B and should avoid drinking tap water.

Getting to Qabala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the different modes of transport to reach Qabala:

Airports Near Qabala

  • Gabala International Airport: The nearest airport to Qabala is Gabala International Airport, which is approximately 25km away from the city.

Bus Stations Near Qabala

  • Baku Bus Terminal: Baku has a bus station that connects to other cities of Azerbaijan. From Baku, you can take a bus to Qabala.

Other Options

  • Hiring a Car: You can rent a car from Baku or Gabala airports.

How to Get Around in Qabala

Qabala has a limited public transport system, so the best way to explore the city is by renting a car or hiring a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Qabala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations that you can visit after exploring Qabala:

  • Sheki: A historical city with ancient architecture including the Caravanserai and the Sheki Khans’ Palace.

  • Ganja: The second-largest city in Azerbaijan, home to museums, parks, and natural attractions.

Conclusion

Qabala is a hidden gem in Azerbaijan, offering visitors a chance to explore the beauty of the northern Caucasus Mountains, a rich cultural history, and many exciting outdoor activities. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Qabala and make the most of your stay in this beautiful city.

Haydar Aliev Congress Center Haydar Aliev Congress Center Park in Qabala Park in Qabala Old Qəbələ Old Qəbələ Qabala Mosque Qabala Mosque Tufandağ Mountain Resort, just outside (above) Qabala Tufandağ Mountain Resort, just outside (above) Qabala