Exploring the Unexplored in Azerbaijan – Naxcivan and Beyond
- Ankitha
- Mar 1, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 12
In one of the most remote corners of Central Asia lies an autonomous republic that very few tourists ever explore — Naxcivan.
This exclave of Azerbaijan, bordering Turkey, Iran, and Armenia, is separated from the mainland yet deeply connected through history and culture.
We decided to hop on a plane, took another one hour flight from Baku and landed in this unbelievably beautiful little corner of a mainstream country. We wandered through the empty roads, crushed on gorgeous minarets and fell in love with every part of Naxcivan.
Here’s our complete 6-day itinerary:
Naxcivan – 2 days
Qabala – 2 days
Baku – 2 days
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Planning Your Trip to Azerbaijan
Flights & Visa
We flew with FlyDubai to Baku (2.5 hours). For Naxcivan, flights are available via Azerbaijan Airlines from Baku (1 hour, ~$80 return). We had our local guide book the tickets, which is recommended since online booking can be tricky.
📌 Visa for Indian Citizens – $26 eVisa (processed in 24 hours)
Language
Azeri is widely spoken. English is understood in Baku but rare in villages.
Best Time to Visit
Spring & Fall – Ideal for hiking and sightseeing
Winter (Feb) – Snowy landscapes in Naxcivan
Summer – Best for Snake Mountain hikes
Currency
Use local currency (Azerbaijani manat) in rural areas. USD is accepted in cities.
Independent vs. Guided Travel
Baku: Can be done solo.
Naxcivan & Qabala: Hire a local guide + driver for logistics, especially for booking internal flights and remote site visits.
Where we stayed
In Baku we stayed at the Landmark hotel. It is correctly priced, and located right in the middle of the city with easy access to the old city. In Naxcivan, you have two choices - both are about the same price too. We stayed in Grand Naxcivan hotel.
Vegetarian Food
Like with most of Central Asia, the cuisine is meat based. As a vegetarian, you can ask to customize the dishes. We tried the local saj and qutabs. Both delicious and freshly made. You can also find a whole lot of hot tea and bakhalava at every stop.
Top Destinations in Azerbaijan
Naxcivan – Offbeat and Magical
Alinja Fortress
Known as the “Machu Picchu of Eurasia,” this reconstructed fortress on a mountaintop offers panoramic views of the Iranian mountains. The 1800-step hike is worth every breath.
On a freezing day, we hiked 1,800 steps to reach this historic stronghold. I could imagine how well-guarded it once was, but the real highlight was the sweeping panoramic views of the northern Iranian mountains—absolutely worth every step.
Qarabaglar Mausoleum
A visual twin to Uzbekistan’s blue-tiled wonders, located in a small village, this monument is stunning with twin minarets and mosaic artistry.
Resembling the blue-tiled marvels of Uzbekistan, this hidden gem in a quiet village is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
With its striking twin minarets, intricate mosaic artistry, and timeless elegance, it offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage—well worth the visit for architecture lovers and history buffs alike.
Noah’s Mausoleum
Believed to be the final resting place of the biblical Noah, this sacred site is steeped in legend and history. The intricate details and craftsmanship of the mausoleum’s design could inspire an entire post on their own.
From the fortress walls of Yezidabad Castle, you can also spot the oldest mosque in Naxcivan—a breathtaking juxtaposition of spiritual heritage and ancient fortification that speaks volumes about the region’s deep cultural roots.
Momine Khatun Mausoleum
Dedicated to a ruler’s wife, this structure features a single support pillar, and the word Allah written over a thousand times.
Khan’s Palace
Next to the Momine Khatun Mausoleum, this former royal residence showcases artifacts from Naxcivan’s past, with the dazzling mirror room as its unforgettable highlight.
Gulustan Mausoleum
One more distinct monument, this one stands out in two ways - the pinkish color of the tiles and the bright red mountains in the background. Such a stunner!
Snake Mountain (Ilandag Mountain)
If you love outdoor hikes, summer is the best time to conquer Snake Mountain in Naxcivan, a peak steeped in legend and natural beauty.
Nearby, you can explore one of the region’s oldest salt mines, adding a fascinating historic twist to your adventure.
Qabala – Nature and Slow Travel
Just three hours from Baku, Qabala is the kind of place where time slows down and nature takes center stage.
Imagine winding forest drives with crisp mountain air, hikes leading to cascading waterfalls, and quiet mornings sipping tea by the serene, glassy Lake Nohur—a scene that instantly reminded us of Lake Bohinj in Slovenia.
Along the roadside, you’ll often spot local grandmas making fresh veggie qutabs right before your eyes—flaky, golden, and bursting with flavor. Qabala isn’t just a summer retreat; in winter, its slopes invite skiers, while spring transforms the valley into a haven for wine lovers.
Whether you’re here for adventure or simply to breathe deeply and unwind, Qabala is a year-round invitation to embrace slow travel at its finest.
Baku – Where Old Meets New
Our trip ended in Azerbaijan’s vibrant capital—a city of long coastlines, bold modern architecture, and centuries-old history. Even as non–city lovers, we were hooked by its unique old-meets-new charm.
Coastal Strolls & the Carpet Museum
A walk along the seaside boulevard is a must. The iconic Carpet Museum, shaped like a rolled-up carpet, makes for a striking photo backdrop. Inside, the craftsmanship is mind-blowing.
Views from Highland Park
Hike or take the funicular up to Highland Park for sweeping city views. From here, the Flame Towers rise dramatically against the skyline, especially magical at sunset.
Icherisheher Fortress Walls
Standing tall for centuries, these ancient walls guard the Old City. Walking here feels like stepping into a different era.
The Old City
Narrow cobblestone streets, historic mosques, and hidden courtyards—this was my personal favorite part of Baku. Every turn hides a story.
Heydar Aliyev Center
A Zaha Hadid masterpiece, this futuristic building is a must-see. Even if you don’t go inside, the curves and angles will have you snapping photos nonstop.
Nizami Street Vibes
Baku’s shopping and nightlife hub is alive with energy—perfect for people-watching, grabbing coffee, or just soaking up the city buzz.
Bibi Heybat Mosque
Originally built in the 13th century and destroyed under Stalin, it was beautifully reconstructed. With green-and-gold interiors, three domes, and a serene Caspian Sea view, it’s also the resting place of Ukeyma Khanim, a descendant of Muhammad. Step inside—you won’t regret it.
Final Thoughts
Azerbaijan surprised us at every turn. From the shimmering mirror rooms of ancient palaces to snow-capped fortresses that seem frozen in time, every corner of this country tells a different story. One moment you’re hiking rugged mountains, the next you’re wandering through centuries-old city streets.
Then there are the quiet blue lakes, forested trails, and wide-open valleys that feel worlds away from the bustle of its cities. The diversity of landscapes in such a compact country is nothing short of unreal—you can experience four seasons in a single trip.
If you’re based in the Middle East or passing through Central Asia, Azerbaijan is an easy, accessible gem that deserves a place on your travel list. It’s close enough for a quick getaway yet rich enough to keep you exploring for weeks.
Thanks for reading! DM me on Instagram if you have questions or need help planning your trip.
Lots of love
Anki
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