How to Explore Azerbaijan's Hidden Gems on a Tour Package

The Land of Fire is what Azerbaijan is commonly referred to due to its never ending flames, yet there is much more to this country that is interesting. Located between Europe and Asia, it is home to both the urban and traditional landscapes, natural marvels, and cultural heritage. Whether you are planning your next vacation, you can use this guide to discover the hidden secrets of Azerbaijan.

Why Choose Azerbaijan for Your Next Adventure? 

Azerbaijan is a place of surprises for first time travellers. It is the place where the East and the West meet each other and presents a mixture of Islamic traditions, soviet influences, and modernity. With Azerbaijan tour packages, you will feel like you are travelling between worlds, with ancient caravanserais beside towers of the future.

What to Expect in Azerbaijan? 

Before immersing in the lesser known attractions, this is a glimpse of what Azerbaijan has to offer.

• Baku: A multi ethnic city containing the Flame Towers, the Old City, and the Heydar Aliyev Centre.

  
  

• Cuisine: A blend of Middle Eastern, Turkish and Persian cuisines - kebabs, plov and dolma are highly recommended.

• Nature: The coast of the Caspian Sea to the villages of high altitude.

• Culture: Zoroastrian temple of fire, mediaeval Mosque and the relics of Silk Road.

With carefully designed international tour packages, travellers can experience both famous landmarks and hidden treasures in one trip.

Baku : Where the Old Meets the New 

Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, will be a likely starting point of your trip. The Old City or Icherisheher, which is listed in the UNESCO, is full of narrow streets, caravanserais and sites such as the Maiden Tower and the Palace of Shirvanshah.

Modern Baku is situated right outside the Old City. The Flame Towers are legendary and the light of the skyline, the Heydar Aliyev Centre, created by Zaha Hadid, is a work of art in the future. Baku is featured in most of the Azerbaijan tour packages because it embodies the spirit of tradition and innovation.

Also Read: Why You Must Make an Azerbaijan Trip in September

Gobustan and the Land of Fire 

Just a quick journey out of Baku and you will find Gobustan National Park which has two unbelievable places to see. The former is the mud volcanoes - bubbling crater-like sceneries that can be found in limited regions around the globe. The second one is old petroglyphs created thousands of years ago, which provide an opportunity to see how people lived in the pre historic period.

Exploring Azerbaijan’s Hidden Gems

Beyond Baku and Gobustan are the real treasures of Azerbaijan, places that are not much on the tourist circuit. Such treasures also provide the traveller with a better insight into the history, culture and natural beauty of the country.

Lahij - Living Craft Village 

Lahij a quaint cobblestone village in the Caucasus Mountains is a place of copper smiths. The methods have been preserved through generations and handmade pots, trays and jewellery are still made by artisans. A walk through its small streets is like going to another time. For cultural travellers, Lahij is one of the must-visit highlights often included in Azerbaijan tour packages.

Sheki- History on the Silk Road 

Sheki is a historical town which used to be a busy station along the Silk Road. It is topped by the Palace of the Sheki Khan constructed in the 18th century, decorative with colourful stained glass windows, complex frescoes, and woodwork, it will astonish visitors.

Outside of the palace, there are caravanserais, small markets and traditional halva, a sweet pastry Sheki is known to make. Many Azerbaijan tour packages feature Sheki for its perfect mix of history and charm.

Khinaliq - Village in the Clouds 

Khinaliq, one of the highest and oldest mountain villages of Caucasus, is located above 2,000 metres above sea level. The inhabitants here have their own language and their own ancient customs which go back several centuries. The mountainous landscape throughout is dramatic, and serves as a reminder of the journey itself. Khinaliq is one of the most remarkable hidden gems of Azerbaijan for the travellers who is interested in authenticity.

Guba - Apples, Carpets, and Mountains 

Guba is an area of nature mixed with culture. Guba is also known to have lush apple orchards, and the renowned Guba carpets, known to be of unique pattern and craftsmanship. The place is enclosed by mountains and has beautiful scenery that are ideal for both hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Nakhchivan - The Isolated Gem 

Being isolated on mainland Azerbaijan, Nakhchivan is not always considered by tourists, yet, it is the state, which harbours some of the most intriguing sites. This independent republic is worth sightseeing in terms of ancient mausoleums, curing salt caves and dramatic scenery. Although it is not a popular destination, Nakhchivan offers an untouched side of Azerbaijan to many travellers.

Food and Flavours of Azerbaijan 

There is no journey that one does without trying the local foods. Many international tour packages include culinary experiences, allowing travellers to enjoy authentic meals prepared by locals. Some favourites from Azerbaijan include:

• Plov - Scented rice with lamb or chicken.

• Dolma - Rice filled and meat stuffed vine leaves.

• Kebabs - Roasted meats, they are served with fresh vegetables and bread.

• Sheki halva - A local dessert which is sweet and rich.

Best Time to Visit 

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the most favourable months to visit Azerbaijan because the weather is favourable during this time. Baku is hot during summer, though great on mountain getaways, and during winter, the Shahdag and Tufandag resorts are popular with skiers.

Why Book with a Travel Agency? 

To access the hidden gems in Azerbaijan, good planning and local knowledge is also needed. Connecting with a reputable travel agency in Dubai sorts out, flights, guided tours to the latter are all arranged with ease. International tour packages might also be customised by professional agencies so that you can add Azerbaijan to neighbouring destinations or any additional experience.

Conclusion 

Azerbaijan is not only its capital Baku. By choosing carefully designed Azerbaijan tour packages, you can experience both the famous landmarks and the offbeat destinations that most travellers never see. Simply your travel and contact a reputable travel agency in Dubai. This way your journey becomes tension free. So get your packages and head on!