Shamakhi+Lahij+Gabala Tour

Baku - After gathering at the designated meeting point or hotel, we embark on our journey to the Diri Baba Mausoleum, situated between Baku and Shamakhi. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Diri Baba Mausoleum - Upon arrival, our guide will provide a historical overview of the mausoleum as we explore its surroundings and interior. This 15th-century, two-story mausoleum-mosque, built in 1402 from white limestone, is nestled in a cave on a glyptic cliff. The site is steeped in legends and ancient mysteries, drawing many curious visitors. The entrance fee is 6 USD.

Juma Mosque - A 30-minute drive from the Diri Baba Mausoleum brings us to the Juma Mosque. Built in 743, it is one of the oldest Muslim temples in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus. Despite partial destruction from a 1902 earthquake, the mosque’s three mehrabs and tripartite internal structure attest to its ancient origins. Visitors must remove their shoes and women are required to cover their heads, with free head coverings provided at the entrance.

Lahij - Our final stop on this tour is the village of Lahij, a 40-minute drive from the Hanging Bridge. Known for its copper craftsmanship, Lahij is one of Azerbaijan’s oldest settlements, famous for its traditional handicrafts and ancient sewage system. Visitors will spend about 1.5 hours here, observing live handicraft demonstrations and more. We then proceed to Gabala, a 1-hour drive away.

Nohur Lake - Our next destination is Nohur Lake, located a few kilometers southeast of Gabala. This manmade lake, created post-World War II, offers stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains and is surrounded by forests and high peaks. It is a popular spot for relaxation, with activities like horse riding and boat trips available. Swimming is prohibited, but fishing and hiking are popular.

Yeddi Gozel Waterfall - The “Seven Beauties” waterfall, originating from the highest peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, is named after the seven mountain roads leading to it. In winter, the waterfall freezes, making access difficult, but in spring and summer, tea houses along the route offer traditional tea sets. At the highest point, a tea house with a wooden mattress provides a unique experience with tea made from the waterfall’s water.

Tufandag Mountain Resort - Our final sightseeing stop is the Tufandag Mountain Resort, located 4 km from Gabala City. This year-round tourism complex offers breathtaking views from 1920 meters above sea level, with activities like skiing and ski training available. The cable car activities have an estimated admission fee of 12.20 USD per person. The total duration of the tour from Baku to Gabala, including sightseeing and technical stops, is 8 hours.

Sheki Tour

Sheki Khan’s Palace - The next day, after checking out from the hotel, we head to Sheki, a 60-minute drive from Gabala. The Sheki Khan’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the main attraction. The entrance fee is 6 USD per person.

Sheki Karvansaray - This 18th-century caravansarai offers a glimpse into the trade life of the period, recreating the atmosphere of a medieval bazaar.

Church of Kish - Our final stop in Sheki is the Church of Kish, the first Albanian church in the Caucasus, dating back to the 1st century AD. Located in Kish village, this ancient temple is one of the first Christian churches built in the region. The entrance fee is 6 USD per person.

The total duration of the Sheki tour activities is about 2.5 hours. The return trip to Baku, including technical stops, takes 5 hours, making the total duration of the second day’s tour 8 hours.

• Baku hotel pickup and drop-off
• Round-trip private transfer
• Professional tour guide

• Accommodation
• Food and drinks
• Entry/Admission - Tufandag Mountain Resort. Est. price starts from 12.20 USD
• Entry/Admission - Sheki Khan’s Palace. Est. price starts from 6 USD
• Entry/Admission - Church of Kish. Est. price is 6 USD
• Entry/Admission - Diri Baba Mausoleum. Est. price is 6 USD