What makes this place special? Why to go to Khinalug? Does it really worth to drive 4 hours one-way for this place?
Khinalug is the highest village in Azerbaijan, and after Kurush village in Dagestan, it is the highest village of all Europe. Located in 2375 m above sea level, Khinaliq's population is more than 2000 people. Even 30-40 years before, in snowy season (from October to March), transportation to/from the village was hardly available. That is why it was considered as the most remote and isolated village in Azerbaijan. But now government fixed the road to Khinalug, and it is being cleaned immediately after snow falls: after all, Khinalug is the historical-architectural and ethnographic reserve of Azerbaijan by UNESCO.
Tour program:
- We meet You in your hotel (usually around 08:30 in the morning)
- Tour will start from Double Gates of Baku Old City, at 09:00
- Candy Cane mountains: After 1.5 hours driving (90 km), we will reach the place. The beautiful area where the pink-and-white striped hills are. Though, You might be disappointed when You realize that in the pictures the color of these mountains are so alive comparing what You see in reality. We suggest You to check our Instagram reels as well.
- Five Finger Mountain: You will just see it from far, where we give a short brake. A rocky mountain supposed to look like a hand with five fingers, but to be honest I never could see it as 5. If You expect something unusual, You will be disappointed again. In fact, "Beshbarmag Dag" is a sacred pilgrimage site where visitors come to receive blessings.
- Gachrash forest: beautiful area to give a break. Nearby there is a place where Azerbaijani fast food (Qutab) is prepared. You can watch how it is prepared and try it for 1-2 manats.
- Photo stop at the "Gudialchay" river
- Eagle peak: if we are lucky, we can observe the clear view of flying Caucasian Golden Eagles in Northern Caucasus skies.
- Broken bridge: We will pass the river with SUV cars due to the collapse of the bridge on the road to Khinalug village.
- Finally, we will reach to Khinalug at around 14:00-14:30. Here the local host - Mr. Rahman will meet us. A very funny and hospitable local of Khinalug village. We will be guest in their house for lunch (local foods, vegetarian option is available upon request).
- After lunch, we will have a mini excursion in the village. We are going to visit the Khinalug museum. Then at the very top, there is a mosque from where the most beautiful view can be captured. Check our Instagram for videos and photos.
- Back to the local's house for tea break with local sweets - murabba. (Sometimes the tea break might happen right after lunch).
- We will start to move back to where we came from, around 6 pm.
- At around 9 pm, we will arrive to Baku. Drop-off to hotel. A long and amazing tour will end.
P.S. Expect the unexpected.
