Azerbaijan, nestled by the picturesque Caspian Sea and boasting a strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, indeed offers a captivating fusion of cultures and lifestyles. Its borders with Armenia, Iran, Georgia, and Russia contribute to a rich mix of influences that shape its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Despite being situated in a predominantly Islamic region, Azerbaijan distinguishes itself as a secular nation, welcoming diverse cultural influences and fostering an environment of tolerance and coexistence. This diversity makes it an appealing destination for travelers from all corners of the globe, including Indian tourists who love the enticing blend of familiar comforts and intriguing novelties in this Instagram-friendly nation.
This summer, if you are planning a trip to this gorgeous nation that’s already topping the charts among solo Indian travellers, then don’t forget to add these must-visit places to your itinerary.
What to do?
Heritage Walk
Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, offers a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modernity. The juxtaposition of its historic cobblestone streets with contemporary architectural marvels creates a unique ambience. Start exploring the cultural heritage through landmarks such as the iconic Highland Park, offering panoramic views of the city, the futuristic Heydar Aliyev Centre designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, and the Carpet Museum showcasing the country's artistic traditions.
On a Food Trail
In the heart of the city, amidst the labyrinthine cobbled streets, old-world palaces stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history, museums house artefacts that narrate tales of bygone eras, and bustling street markets exude the vibrant energy of the local culture. At Nizami Street in downtown Baku, soak in the vibe of live music, and fresh street food as you walk past the landmark buildings on this largest pedestrian shopping pathway. Make a quick stop at the National Museum of Azerbaijan Literature named after Nizami Ganjavi at the entry of Icherisheher, a cluster of over 100 historical monuments in the gated old-city complex. On your way to the famous Shirvanshahs’ Palace in the old city, stop by the streetside cafes to enjoy a cup of famous Azeri black tea served with sugary Samani halva. As you explore the eclectic nightlife of Baku, let the whiff of freshly prepared Doner Kebabs, dolmas (stuffed vegetables), plov (Azeri pulao), and piti (a hearty meat soup) guide you to some of the best eating spots in town.
Land Of Fire
Azerbaijan's association with fire, stemming from its abundant oil and gas resources, has deeply influenced its historical, political, and cultural landscape, earning it the moniker "land of fire." This motif is prominently reflected in various landmarks and sites across the country, particularly in Baku. One of the most iconic symbols of this fiery heritage is the Flame Towers, a trio of skyscrapers in Baku designed to resemble flames. After sunset, these towers illuminate in vibrant shades, creating a spectacular sight visible from afar, symbolizing the nation's energy and vitality.
Another notable site steeped in the fire concept is the Ateshgah, also known as the Fire Temple of Baku. Constructed during the 17th-18th centuries by Zoroastrian fire-worshippers, this temple, resembling a castle, was built atop a natural gas field that fueled an eternal flame. It served as a place of pilgrimage for fire-worshipping Hindus until the late 19th century, highlighting the cultural exchange and significance of fire symbolism in the region. In the Absheron District, travellers can witness the natural wonder of Yanardag, or the Burning Mountain, where natural flames jet into the air from a porous sandstone hill. The steady seepage of gas from the subsurface sustains these flames, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly spectacle. Visitors to Yanardag can not only witness the eternal fire but also perceive the distinct aroma of gas in the surrounding atmosphere, further accentuating the immersive experience.
Past Perfect
A noteworthy stop on your itinerary could be the mud volcanoes of Gobustan, bubbling with grey lava-rich soil, which the locals believe is beneficial for human skin. You’ll find these in the middle of nowhere in abandoned lands, and jumping into them without a proper guide can prove to be fatal. The extensive Gobustan rock art cultural landscape lies in a protected semi-desert area and is a treat for history lovers. It is home to over 6,000 rock engravings depicting 40,000 years of rock art in prehistoric inhabited caves, settlements, and burials from the Upper Paleolithic to the Middle Ages.
Snow Trail in Gabala and Tufandag
Located at the coastline of the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan shares its borders with Armenia, Iran, Georgia, and Russia, and draws a mix of influences from its neighbouring nations. In the Northern region of the country are the twin towns of Gabala and Tufandag, known for ski resorts and wellness retreats. Straight out of mystical fairytales, here one can enjoy the snowy white vistas and exceptional views of frozen Nohur Lake in peak winters. One can also plan a wellness retreat at the Chenot Palace in Gabala to rejuvenate with an advanced detox program and holistic therapies. From aromatic hydrotherapies to invigorating mud baths in warm water beds, lymphatic massages, and light therapies, it is a perfect spot to experience tranquillity and adventure for wellness travellers.
Confluence of Cultures
If you have an extra day in Baku, head to the historic city of Sheki and visit the Khan Palace, famous for its red brick and cobblestone architecture embellished with a lattice frame with a set of colourful traditional mosaic (shabaka) and tinted glasswork. The old town of Sheki is a preserved region, where one can still find cobblestone pathways and ancient caravanserai (roadside inns) constructed beautifully on the natural lush slopes of the Caucasian mountain range. On the way back, stop at the remote Lahij village on the slopes of Caucasus and explore the antique cobbled streets, stone houses, souvenir shops, and almost 40 kinds of crafts practised here.
Flavours of Azerbaijan
Dolma
A must-try in Azerbaijan is the dolma often known as stuffed vegetables. And.. no trip to Baku, Azerbaijan, is complete without first ordering a plate of dolma.
Tea
One of the most popular drinks in Azerbaijan is Black Tea accompanied by jams, slices of lemon and pakhlava. No sugar is added to the tea. Instead after a sip, a spoonful of jam is eaten to sweeten the palate, followed by another sip of tea.
Saj Kebabs
A staple dish on the Azeri menu, Kebabs in Baku are lip-smackingly delicious. Azerbaijan is famous for the sheer variety of kebabs ranging from chicken wings to lamb and fish cooked on a saj platter, a cross between a tawa and kadhai.
Pakhlava
Pakhlavas are very similar to the Turkish baklava and are incredibly sweet and filling. they make for the best companion to strong black tea that is so commonly drunk across the country.
Shah Plov
The national dish of Azerbaijan is plov (known as pulao in India) and it comes in more than 30 variations. Occupying a royal place in the pantheon of plovs, the Shah Plov is made by enveloping the rice in flaky lavash ( a phyllo like crust when cooked). Inside, there’s subtly flavoured saffron-infused rice, meat, dried fruit, chestnuts, and fried onion.
Where to stay?
The Ritz-Carlton Baku
Situated in the downtown Nisimi District of Azerbaijan’s, capital, The Ritz-Carlton, Baku is the city’s newest hotel. Explore Baku's cultural treasures with ease from The Ritz-Carlton, Baku, located near iconic landmarks like the Heydar Aliyev Center and Old City's UNESCO sites. Experience the city's rich culinary scene, showcased at the hotel's diverse dining venues including Tribeca and the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge.
Four Seasons Baku
Experience unparalleled luxury and sophistication at Four Seasons Baku, nestled in the heart of Azerbaijan's vibrant capital. Boasting breathtaking views of the Caspian Sea and the city skyline, this five-star hotel has easy access to nearby attractions such as the historic Old City and modern landmarks like the Flame Towers. Experience the refined elegance of Bentley Bistro & Bar, the vibrant ambience of Piazza Lounge, and the Mediterranean charm of Zafferano Restaurant, each offering a tantalizing array of flavours to delight discerning palates.
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