Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is located on the crossroads between Asia and Europe and is popularly known as ‘the Land of Fire’. With a diverse landscape defined by snow-capped peaks, mud volcanoes, dry deserts and dense forests, Azerbaijan is slowly developing into a popular tourist destination in recent times.

Azerbaijan’s capital Baku is set on the coast of the Caspian Sea and is famed for its UNESCO world heritage listed medieval walled city (also known as Icherisheher). The Maiden’s Tower – a historical 29m stone tower, Palace of the Shirvanshahs – a restored 15th-century sandstone palace complex and Soviet-era relics are the capital’s highlights. Baku’s impressive 182m tall trio of skyscrapers – Flame Towers and the Heydar Aliyev Centre are the best examples of its modern architecture.

Around 60km from Baku, Qobustan (also known as Gobustan) is a great destination to explore rock petroglyphs and mud volcanoes in the UNESCO listed Qobustan Petroglyph Reserve (also known as Gobustan National Park).

Seki (also known as Sheki or Shaki) is a beautiful town in the northern region of Azerbaijan famed for its forest-covered mountains. This ancient Silk Road city’s historic centre is designated as a UNESCO world heritage site and known for the 18th century Khan’s Palace.

The village Lahic located in the Great Caucasus mountains is home to skilled craftsmen, especially coppersmiths. The picturesque cobbled alleys and squares of the village are lined with shops selling artisanal items like cooking utensils, swords, daggers and jewellery. The mountainous terrain surrounding the village is also perfect for hiking.

Azerbaijan is a country with wonderful history and nature. The unique blend of Middle Eastern, Russian and slight European influences, makes the country all the more exciting. From Baku’s top-notch architecture to Qobustan‘s rock art and mud volcanoes – Azerbaijan offers excellent diversity. Above all, Azerbaijan is a pocket-friendly destination that offers great experiences more than your money’s worth.