What to See on a Sightseeing Tour of Baku – Ateshgah, Yanardag and Gobustan

Are you planning a sightseeing tour of Baku and unsure of where to begin? The capital of Azerbaijan is a hotbed of fantastic sights and attractions, many of which are sure to captivate and enthral visitors. Get ready to experience some history, culture, and exceptional scenery when marveling at Ateshgah, Yanardag and Gobustan.

Ateshgah – Baku Fire Temple

The Ateshgah temple is a 17th century pilgrimage temple, located in a castle-like structure in Azerbaijan’s capital city. This remarkable monument was constructed at the site of a natural gas vent, thought by the Hindus who built it to be a manifestation of the agni giri mount of fire. The architecture is largely reminiscent of that of Indian temples, with the presence of concave arches-or kanguras-and charming archways produced in the style of Indian decorative screens.

Ateshgah rises around 30 metres and is bounded by double walls with watchtowers. Inside, the main chamber is illuminated by countless flames burning from several natural gas vents. The internal structure is similarly Indian-inspired, featuring many hallways and rooms as well as an open-air courtyard surrounded by fire niches for endless prayer. Over the centuries, Atesgah has been used as a place of veneration for Zoroastrians, Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims alike, each worshipping in their own particular fashion.

Yanardag – Fire Cliffs

Another Baku sightseeing must-see is Yanardag, known as the ‘Fire Cliffs’. These strangely shaped red foothills are believed to have been spontaneously ignited since the early 20th century. The common explanation is that there has been an underground deposit of natural gas operating in this area since at least that time.

Indeed, many locals have recounted stories of flames leaping up from crevices in the side of the cliff. While some fires have gone out, others have continued to burn as a physical testament to the cosmographic tales told by locals for centuries. Evidence would appear to suggest that these tales are in fact rooted in truth, as many travelling visitors to Yanardag have brought news of these strange and magnificent natural flames.

Gobustan National Park

The last stop on any sightseeing tour of Baku should be Gobustan National Park. This is a rugged area of lush landscaped located southwest of Baku that is sure to enthrall visitors with its natural beauty. From its ancient carvings to its incredible mountain backdrop, Gobustan fuses the exquisiteness of nature with archaeological relevance.

The protected area consists of sandstone hills and clay plains, rock shelters and primitive caves adorned with petroglyphs dating back to 10 000 BC. The clusters petroglyphs-artwork carved, moulded or simply marked into the rock-are believed to have been created by semi-nomadic tribes inhabiting the area thousands of years ago. Much more recently, political caricatures depicting current and Soviet political figures were carved next to the ancient carvings.

Gobustan’s landscape is just as memorable, with mud volcanoes dotting the plains and incredible mountain scenery ranging from towering forested slopes to wide open dry plains. The most mesmerizing mountain panorama can be seen from Gamigaya’s perspective point-the highest peak in Gobustan National Park at 495 metres above sea level; here you can spot four different climatic zones in one view and gaze out upon six distinct mountain peaks in Azerbaijan’s breathtaking countryside.

Conclusion

Seeing all three sites in one day isn’t quite possible due to their distance from each other, but combining Ateshgah, Yanardag and Gobustan in one day-long tour will still make for a fantastic experience. Each site offers its own unique appeal for visitors; whether it’s Ateshgah’s Hindu-Indian inspired architecture or Gobustan’s striking landscape that catches your imagination; Baku has it all!

For those wishing to take a guided tour of these three sites, GetYourGuide offer a comprehensive excursion perfect for exploring every nook and cranny of these truly fascinating places!

An Insider’s Guide to Baku – Uncovering Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Local Attractions – Discovering Baku’s Hidden Gems

Baku is a city full of surprises, and there’s more to it than just the popular tourist attractions like Ateshgah, Yanardag, and Gobustan. Some of the city’s hidden gems are often overlooked by tourists but are worth exploring. One such gem is the Old City, or Icherisheher. This UNESCO-listed site is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with splendid buildings, forts, mosques, and bazaars that date back to the 12th century.

Another must-see attraction is the Baku Puppet Theater, an excellent place to catch a puppet show that is both entertaining and informative. For those looking for a more relaxed time, head over to the Dendropark or the Botanical Garden, green and lush spaces that provide a lovely respite from the bustling city.

Dining Spots – Indulging in Baku’s Culinary Delights

Baku is a city renowned for its food culture, and there’s no better way to savor its delights than through the local cuisine. One must-try local dish is the plov, a rice dish mixed with meat and vegetables, served with a dollop of yoghurt and Shirin chay (sweet tea). The dish is a staple at weddings, funerals and is served during national holidays.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss trying the shekerbura, a pastry filled with nuts and sugar and dotted with little sesame seeds. Another favorite is the dolma, which is stuffed vegetables like eggplant, capsicum, and tomatoes, filled with rice and meat, cooked in a rich tomato sauce.

Cultural Experiences – Unveiling Baku’s Traditions

Baku is a city of rich cultural traditions, and the best way to get a glimpse into its vibrant cultural scene is to attend some of the local festivals and events. One of the most popular is the Novruz festival, which marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with singing, dancing, and street performances. Another festival is the Baku International Jazz Festival, which gathers jazz enthusiasts from around the world for a week of concerts and performances.

If you’re in the mood for some art and music, check out the Museum of Modern Art, which showcases contemporary Azerbaijani art, or attend a classical music concert at the Mugham Center, a venue dedicated to the traditional Azerbaijani music, with world-renowned musicians.

Local History – Fascinating Stories from Baku’s Past

Baku is a city steeped in history, and there are many interesting stories and anecdotes waiting to be discovered. One such story is about the Maiden Tower, an iconic Baku structure, that is said to have been built by a king for his daughter to protect her from unwanted advances by suitors. Another fascinating aspect of Baku’s past is its oil-rich history, which dates back to the 19th century when the city became a hub for the booming oil industry.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions – Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

If you’re up for an adventure, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will give you a unique and unforgettable experience. One such experience is a visit to the Gobustan National Park, where you can see ancient petroglyphs that date back to the Stone Age. For those who like to explore the outdoors, the Absheron National Park is an excellent place to go hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

Another exciting activity is the Baku Street Art Tour, where you can get an insight into the city’s vibrant street art scene, learn about the city’s history through its murals and graffiti, and explore the city in a fun and unique way.

In conclusion, Baku is a city full of hidden gems, unique experiences, and fascinating history. By venturing off the beaten path, trying local cuisine, experiencing the city’s cultural scene, and uncovering its past, travelers can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this incredible city.