Hidden Gems of Azerbaijan A 6 Day Cultural Exploration

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Journey into the Highlands - Shamakhi & Lahij + Transfer to Gabala
5 stops
1
Begin your unforgettable journey with a warm welcome at Heydar Aliyev International Airport or your designated hotel in Baku. From here, set off westward toward Shamakhi, one of Azerbaijan’s most historic cities and once the proud capital of the ancient Shirvan Kingdom.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
2
Your cultural discovery begins with a visit to the Diri Baba Mausoleum, an architectural marvel uniquely carved into a Cliffside-shrouded in legends and spiritual significance.
50 minutes • Admission ticket not included
3
Juma Mosque
Next, step inside the Juma Mosque, the oldest mosque in the Caucasus, originally built in the 8th century and beautifully restored, still echoing with centuries of prayer and tradition.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
4
Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum
Continue to the Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum, the resting place of Shamakhi’s former rulers. Surrounded by peaceful hills, this site offers a serene and historical atmosphere with panoramic views over the region.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
5
Lahic
The journey continues into the Greater Caucasus Mountains, where you'll reach the ancient Village of Lahij (Lahic). Famous for its winding cobbled streets, stone houses, and sophisticated ancient sewage system, Lahij is also a hub of traditional copper craftsmanship. Visit local workshops, interact with skilled artisans, and witness age-old techniques passed down through generations. In the evening, travel to Gabala, often referred to as Azerbaijan’s outdoor capital due to its lush nature and mountainous beauty. Check in to your hotel and unwind after a full day of exploration. This enriching day spans approximately 10 to 12 hours, guided throughout by a professional tour guide providing in-depth historical and cultural insights at each stop.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Nature and Heritage – Gabala to Sheki
6 stops
6
Tufandag Mountain Resort
Start your day surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the Caucasus Mountains with a visit to Tufandag Mountain Resort, one of the region’s premier destinations for both relaxation and adventure. Begin with a scenic cable car ride, soaring above alpine meadows and thick pine forests. As you ascend, take in the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the peaceful valleys below-an ideal spot for photos and fresh mountain air.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included
7
Nohur Gol
Continue your journey to the serene Nohur Lake, nestled among forested hills. This quiet oasis is perfect for a short walk along its shores, enjoying the gentle breeze and the mirror-like reflections of the trees on the water. You may spot locals fishing or picnicking-a glimpse into daily life in the Azerbaijani countryside.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
8
Yeddi Gozel Waterfall
Next, head to one of the region’s hidden gems: the Yeddi Gozel (Seven Beauties) Waterfall. Tucked away in the mountains and reached by a short hike through lush terrain, this multi-tiered cascade is known for its beauty and the calming sound of falling water. It’s a lovely place to take a break, soak in the surroundings, and perhaps enjoy a cup of tea at a nearby teahouse.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
9
Chotari Albanian-Udi Church
Your cultural exploration begins as you drive to Nidj Village, a unique settlement home to the Udi people, one of the oldest Christian ethnic groups in the Caucasus. Here, you’ll visit the Chotari Albanian Church, a rare example of ancient Caucasian Albanian Christian architecture. This historical monument offers insights into the lesser-known religious and ethnic diversity of Azerbaijan and remains an active place of worship for the Udi community.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
10
Bio Garden
As you make your way toward the historic town of Sheki, take a break at the Bio Garden, a charming eco-stop where you can stroll through orchards and taste locally grown seasonal fruits and herbal teas prepared from regional plants. It’s a refreshing pause that highlights the richness of local agriculture and the region’s commitment to sustainability.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
11
Sheki Karvansaray
Arriving in Sheki, end your day at the magnificent Sheki Caravanserai, an atmospheric inn that once welcomed Silk Road merchants centuries ago. Walk through its grand stone courtyards and arched halls, imagining the bustling trade that once filled this now-quiet place. The caravanserai also houses artisan workshops and souvenir stores that preserve traditional Sheki craftsmanship. Optional experience: Before settling in for the night, stroll through Sheki’s old town and stop by traditional sweet shops to sample local delicacies, especially the famous Sheki Halva, a rich, layered pastry made from nuts, sugar, and rice flour, beloved throughout the country. Overnight stay in Sheki. The total tour duration is approximately 5 to 6 hours, enriched by the engaging commentary of a professional guide, who will offer deep insights into the history, culture, and landscapes of this captivating region.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Deep Dive into Sheki’s Culture & History
5 stops
12
Palace of Shaki Khans
Today is dedicated to exploring the rich artistic and historical legacy of Sheki, one of Azerbaijan’s most culturally vibrant cities. Begin your journey with a visit to the Sheki Khan’s Palace, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture nestled among lush chestnut trees. This former royal residence reflects the grandeur of the Sheki Khanate, with its lavish interiors adorned by intricate stained-glass windows (shebeke), elaborate frescoes, and ornate woodwork crafted without nails or glue. The interplay of light and color through the stained glass creates a truly magical atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the refined tastes of the region's former rulers.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
13
Abad Ceramics And Applied Art Center
Next, step into the world of contemporary craftsmanship at the ABAD Ceramic Arts Centre, where tradition meets innovation. This cultural hub promotes local artisans by integrating traditional Azerbaijani motifs into modern ceramic and design pieces. It's an inspiring place to see how ancient crafts continue to evolve and thrive in the modern era.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
14
Continue your immersion into Sheki’s storied past at the Museum of History and Local Lore, where a rich collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and ethnographic exhibits tell the story of Sheki’s pivotal role in Silk Road trade, regional politics, and its artistic and literary movements. The museum offers valuable insights into how Sheki became a center of commerce and creativity throughout the centuries.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
15
Sheki State Art Gallery
From there, move on to the Art Gallery and the Craftsmen’s House, a dynamic space where tradition is not only preserved but actively practiced. Here, you’ll observe master shebeke artisans working meticulously by hand, reviving age-old techniques passed down through generations. You may even have the chance to engage with the artists and learn about the deep symbolism behind their geometric designs.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
16
Fazil Labyrinth-museum
Round off the day with a reflective visit to the Fazil Necropolis, a peaceful and historical cemetery that serves as the final resting place for some of Sheki’s most revered scholars, poets, and thinkers. It’s a place of quiet contemplation, where the legacy of the city’s intellectual and spiritual heritage lives on. The entire day’s tour will be guided by a professional, offering deep contextual insights at every stop approximately 4 to 5 hours. Overnight stay in Sheki.
20 minutes • Admission ticket not included
Day 4
Hidden Stories & Wine Traditions of Sheki
6 stops
17
Church of Kish
Enjoy another captivating day in the cultural heart of Sheki, where layers of history, architecture, and craftsmanship continue to unfold. Begin with a journey into early Christian heritage at the Kish Albanian Church, located in the picturesque village of Kish just outside Sheki. Considered one of the oldest Christian temples in the Caucasus, this ancient church dates back to the 1st century A.D. and is believed to have been founded by Saint Eliseus, a disciple of the Apostle Thaddeus. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains, this sacred site offers a powerful sense of serenity and spiritual continuity, with its modest stone structure and onsite museum showcasing early Christian relics and archaeological finds.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
18
Sheki
Return to the city to visit the Shekihanovs’ House, a lesser-known gem that exemplifies Sheki’s 19th-century residential architecture. This noble family mansion reflects the elegance and craftsmanship typical of Sheki’s golden age. With its decorated wooden ceilings, fine latticework, and traditional layout, the house provides a deeper understanding of urban life among Sheki’s elite families during the late Khanate period.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
19
Continue your exploration at the Sheki Silk Factory, where you’ll witness one of the region’s oldest and most prestigious crafts-silk weaving. Once a vital center on the Silk Road, Sheki remains known for its delicate kelagayi (silk headscarves), produced using traditional dyeing techniques. Here, you'll see the intricate process from raw silk cocoon to finished textile, gaining appreciation for the labor-intensive artistry involved in this centuries-old trade.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
20
Sheki Khan's Mosque Complex
Afterward, explore Sheki’s religious and communal life with a visit to the Khan Mosque, an elegant structure reflecting the architectural traditions of Islamic Sheki. With its modest exterior and quiet interior space, the mosque serves as a reminder of the city’s diverse religious heritage and civic life under the Khanate.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
21
Nearby stands the Abdulkhaliq Hammam, a historic bathhouse dating back to the 18th century. This preserved hammam reveals the social and hygienic practices of the time, with its domed ceilings, marble slabs, and intricate heating system offering a window into everyday life during the Khanate era.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
22
Sheki Wines
Conclude your day with a relaxing and flavorful visit to the Az Abrau Museum-Wine, a modern space celebrating Azerbaijan’s evolving wine culture. Set in a contemporary tasting hall, the museum presents the history of viticulture in the region, the impact of local terroirs, and the rebirth of wine production in post-Soviet Azerbaijan. Enjoy a guided wine tasting session, where you’ll sample local varieties while learning about grape cultivation and traditional fermentation techniques unique to this part of the Caucasus. The full experience will be professionally guided, offering deep historical, cultural, and technical insights at every location. Total tour duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours. Overnight stay in Sheki
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
Day 5
Day Trip to Qakh & Ilisu – Mountain Legends and Ancient Forts
8 stops
23
Depart Sheki in the morning and head northwest toward the charming Qakh region, a land where natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage. As the landscape begins to shift from rolling hills to forested slopes, breathe in the crisp mountain air and enjoy the tranquil scenery that sets the tone for the day ahead. Your first stop is the Kurmuk Temple, hidden deep within the wooded hills at the foot of the Greater Caucasus. This serene sanctuary, once a revered pilgrimage site, is surrounded by whispering pines and offers a peaceful retreat into nature. The temple’s mysterious origins and enduring spiritual significance make it a compelling destination for history lovers and those seeking quiet reflection.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
24
Continue on to explore the ruins of the Qum Basilica, a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the early Christian presence in the region. Dating back to the Caucasian Albanian period, this ancient structure-though partially reclaimed by time-speaks volumes about the religious and cultural shifts that shaped the land centuries ago. Your guide will share stories that bring the forgotten walls and crumbling foundations back to life.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
25
Ascend to the dramatic heights of Sumug-gala Castle, a medieval fortress perched strategically over the valley. From its stone ramparts, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and villages-once a stronghold for defense, now a silent sentinel offering breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into the region’s medieval past.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
26
Ulu Mosque
Back in the heart of Qakh, delve into the town’s architectural heritage with visits to the Ulu Mosque, an elegant example of Islamic architecture with centuries-old roots
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
27
Tour continues to the Ulu Bridge, a sturdy stone crossing over the Kurmuk River that has stood for hundreds of years. These structures embody the blend of Turkic, Persian, and Caucasian influences that define Qakh’s unique identity.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
28
Qakh
Stroll through the Icheri Bazaar, the historical old quarter of Qakh. This charming area retains its traditional atmosphere, with cobbled paths, artisan shops, and hints of the town's diverse cultural fabric-once home to Azerbaijanis, Lezgins, Georgians, and Ingiloys living side by side.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
29
Next, venture into the countryside to Lekit Village, renowned for its natural beauty and rural charm. Here, you’ll visit the Honey House, where you can learn about traditional beekeeping methods and sample some of the purest, most aromatic honey in the region. Take time to explore the lush orchards and peaceful surroundings of this idyllic village.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
30
Conclude your cultural journey with a visit to the History and Ethnography Museum of Qakh, where exhibits highlight the district’s rich mosaic of cultures, religions, and traditions. From ancient tools and textiles to historic photographs and manuscripts, the museum offers a thoughtful overview of how Qakh’s multiethnic community evolved through the centuries. As the day winds down, return to Sheki with a deeper appreciation of Qakh’s enduring legacy-its sacred sites, majestic landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. The entire tour spans approximately 7 to 8 hours, encompassing transit between sites as well as expert narration provided by a professional guide during all sightseeing segments.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Final Morning Delights: Market Finds and Journey Onward
2 stops
31
After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and prepare for the day’s final activities in Sheki. Before leaving this charming town, you’ll enjoy a brief but memorable visit to the Sheki Bazaar - a bustling local market known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic offerings. It's the perfect place to pick up last-minute souvenirs, including handcrafted goods, local sweets like Sheki halva, dried fruits, nuts, and other traditional Azerbaijani delicacies.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
32
Once your visit to the bazaar concludes, you will be transferred onwards depending on your next destination: To Baku, where you’ll head back through the scenic Caucasus countryside for your international departure. Enjoy the changing landscapes along the way, reflecting on the experiences and cultural encounters from your journey across northern Azerbaijan. Or To Lagodekhi, continuing your adventure as you make your way to the Azerbaijan-Georgia border crossing. Upon arrival, you’ll complete border formalities and proceed into eastern Georgia, ready to explore a new chapter of the Caucasus - from the lush forests of Lagodekhi to the famed wine regions and historical towns beyond.
5 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• We provide 3 price option here according to the services. First is guide and driver, second is guide, driver and entrance fees, the third is All Inclusive. Travelers are asked to read Inclusions section carefully as we offer 3 price options with Included Entry Tickets and Excluded Entry Tickets.

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