How to Plan Your 2 Days 1 Night Shamakhi – Gabala – Lahij – Sheki Tour (Northern Route)

If you’re planning to visit Azerbaijan and want to explore its Northern region, then a 2-day tour of Shamakhi, Gabala, Lahij, and Sheki is the perfect plan for you. This tour will take you through some of the most popular attractions of Azerbaijan’s Northern region, including historical sights, natural beauty, local culture, and traditional architecture. In this blog post, we will provide you with a detailed guide on how to plan your 2-day tour of Shamakhi, Gabala, Lahij, and Sheki, including what to expect, what’s included, and how to book it.

Overview

This 2-day tour of Shamakhi, Gabala, Lahij, and Sheki will take you through some of the most beautiful and historically significant sites of Azerbaijan’s Northern region. You will visit the following places:

– Shamakhi: Juma Mosque, Yeddi Gumbez Mausoleum, and Diribaba Mausoleum
– Gabala: Nohur Gol Lake, Tufandag Resort, and Gabaland Theme Park
– Lahij: Old Town Lahij, Copper Craft Workshop, and Lahij Bazaar
– Sheki: Sheki Khan’s Palace, Sheki Bazaar, and Kish Albanian Church

Over the two days, you will be able to explore Azerbaijan’s rich history and culture, enjoy its scenic beauty, taste its traditional food, and interact with its hospitable people.

What’s Included

The tour package includes the following:

– Air-conditioned vehicle for transportation
– Professional tour guide to lead the tour
– Entry to Diribaba Mausoleum
– Lunch on both days
– Cable car ride at Tufandag Resort
– Gratuities for tour guide and driver

The tour package does not include any additional costs such as souvenirs or personal expenses.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Sabir’s Garden, located in front of the Constitutional Court of Azerbaijan Republic. If you have any difficulty locating the meeting point, you can contact the tour organizers through WhatsApp or phone call. The tour starts at 09:00 AM, and you can either head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup from your hotel. The pickup time for the tour is 8:25 AM, and you need to be ready and waiting in your hotel’s lobby at least five minutes before the vehicle arrives.

What to Expect

The tour is suitable for most travelers and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Infant seats are available on request. The tour involves some walking, hiking, and climbing stairs, so it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes and clothes. The tour package includes lunch on both days, and you will have some free time to purchase snacks or souvenirs.

How to Book

You can book your 2-day tour of Shamakhi, Gabala, Lahij, and Sheki through Viator.com, a reliable third-party tour operator. The tour costs $184 per person, and you can pay securely through Viator.com. The tour package includes a full itinerary, pickup from your hotel or the meeting point, and all the inclusions mentioned above. To book the tour, click on this link: book the tour here.

Final Thoughts

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your 2-day tour of Shamakhi, Gabala, Lahij, and Sheki. Your visit to Azerbaijan’s Northern region will be memorable, and you will experience its beauty, culture, and people’s hospitality. Book your tour today and embark on an adventure that you will never forget.

Insider’s Guide to Sheki, Azerbaijan

In the northwestern part of Azerbaijan, nestled in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, lies a small, but enchanting city called Sheki. This ancient city has been an important hub of the Silk Road trading route, and it still showcases the rich artwork and culture that has evolved over centuries. Sheki is known for its architecture, food, and hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Azerbaijan.

Local Attractions

Sheki has several attractions that highlight its rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some of the most notable landmarks and sites to explore:

Sheki Khan’s Palace

Built in the 18th century, the Sheki Khan’s Palace boasts intricate murals and decorative carvings from the time. The palace was once the summer residence of the local Khan and his family. It is now a museum showcasing how the noble class used to live.

Juma Mosque

The Juma Mosque combines Islamic and Georgian architectural elements in its design and dates back to the 18th century. The mosque’s interior features beautiful frescoes and designs that were once painted by the local artists in the 19th century.

Sheki Bazaar

The Sheki bazaar is another must-see attraction. A walk through the bustling bazaar area will take you past vendors selling fresh produce, spices, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.

Dining Spots

Sheki is also famous for its delicious cuisine that is local to Azerbaijan. Here are some of the best places to dine in Sheki:

Karvansaray Restaurant

The Karvansaray Restaurant located in Sheki is an ancient Caravanserai converted to a restaurant. The restaurant serves traditional Azerbaijani Cuisine in a unique and colorful setting.

Shebeke Restaurant

Another great restaurant to enjoy local Azerbaijani cuisine is Shebeke. The restaurant’s decor is a replica of an old shebeke (stained-glass) window to give it an authentic feel. It also hosts a live ensemble playing traditional music in a cozy atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences

Aside from the historical and architectural landmarks, Sheki also offers unique cultural experiences. Here are some of the cultural events to enjoy in Sheki:

Sheki International Dance Festival

Sheki hosts a yearly international dance festival where local and international dance groups perform Azerbaijani folk dances, classical ballet, and contemporary dances. The festival usually occurs in June or July.

Sheki Halva Festival

The Sheki Halva Festival celebrates the traditional halva, a sweet dessert popular in the region. The festival takes place every year in the month of October, where visitors can sample different varieties of the local sweet treat.

Local History

Sheki has a long and storied history that dates back over two thousand years. It has been a significant trading hub between the East and West in ancient times. Over time, the city came under the control of various empires, including the Persian and Russian empires. Its long history is visible in the old town’s architecture which is a blend of Persian, Arabic, Turkish, and Azerbaijani designs.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For intrepid travelers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist hotspots, Sheki has several hidden gems that are worth discovering. Here are some of the off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Kish Church

The Kish Church is a small church located in the village of Kish, which is 5 km away from the center of Sheki. The church dates back to the 12th century and is one of the oldest Christian churches in the Caucasus.

Gelersen-Gorersen Fortress

The Gelersen-Gorersen Fortress is situated on a hill overlooking the city. The fortress dates back to the 5th century and has a fascinating story of once being captured by the famous Barbarossa pirate.

Sheki Waterfall

Sheki has a small but picturesque waterfall located in the midst of stunning natural surroundings about 12 kilometers from the city center. This waterfall is a great spot to soak up nature and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

In conclusion, Sheki, Azerbaijan, is an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience a rich cultural and historical background. The city’s unique architecture, delicious cuisine, and welcoming hospitality are bound to leave visitors enchanted and wanting more. Planning a 2-day trip to Sheki will be a delightful experience with plenty of attractions to explore and memorable experiences to cherish.