The Azerbaijan off-the-beaten-path destinations invite you to go out of the beaten tracks to enjoy the charm of the beautiful charming towns in the mountains and the historical sites that have been dated thousands of years back. In Azerbaijan, its less popular spots are guaranteed to steal your heart either if you are a nature lover, history enthusiast or if you crave for authentic cultural encounters. So, to make the most of your trip, it is advisable to apply for Azerbaijan Visa before going there to avoid any hassles during the travel.

Planning your journey from India? The application for an Azerbaijan Visa from India is very easy and you can easily apply for your travel documents online and get it all sorted in a short span of time. Once all that is done, hook onto the adventure that Azerbaijan has tucked away deep in its hidden gems every corner has something new and unwelcoming to share. Off the beaten track, these points of interest from Gabala, the quaint town to Gobustan’s ancient rock art have a deeper connection to this country and show how beautiful and diverse it truly is.

Here are the hidden gems of Azerbaijan: off-the-beaten-path destinations

1. Gabala

Gabala will be an absolute must if you’re a nature loving person and love to be a part of adventures. Gabala is little more than a quaint mountain town with lush forests and beautiful waterfalls and peaks just a few hours from Baku. Gabala has something to offer whether you are into hiking, zip lining or simply relax in nature. Skiing in winter is a popular pastime at the Tufandag Mountain Resort, but its beauty is not limited to the winter.

2. Sheki

Sheki is one of the oldest cities in Azerbaijan. Step back into history when you visit there. It is known for its preserved architecture with charming cobblestone streets, ancient caravanserais and the grand Sheki Khan’s Palace with its stained glass windows and beautiful gardens. Baku is a great place to explore the country’s rich history and culture, but the city is less touristy than Baku.

3. Khinalug

Khinalug, situated at 2,300 meters in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, is a head for a definitely off the regular beaten path encounter. This is one of the highest settlements in Azerbaijan and it provides an unforgettable experience for those who are up for a challenge. The village has stunning mountain views, unique culture and the hospitality of the locals makes it a real hidden gem. Perfect for those who want a little peace, quiet and a view of Azerbaijan’s rural charm.

4. Lahij

Lahij is known for its centuries old tradition of copperware craft. A small town situated just south of Baku, this town is a bequest of souvenirs that are unique, from handmade copper pots and plates to exquisite jewelry. The artisans will be working for you to create their own piece and you’ll be able to watch and even try your hand at creating your own piece. Don’t leave without picking up a one of a kind souvenir of your trip to Lahij, it is also famous for its carpets and pottery.

5. Gobustan National Park

Gobustan National Park is not far from Baku and is home to some of Azerbaijan’s most fascinating natural and historical wonders. Petroglyphs in the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape are prehistoric and date back to 5,000 to 40,000 years ago. The park is also famous for its peculiar mud volcanoes, which are among the most concentrated in the world, in addition to the ancient art. A visit to Gobustan is like time travelling to a different era, history of dawn and magnificent landcape.

6. Ganja

Ganja may not be as famous as Baku, but it’s the perfect place for those who want to experience a more relaxed life with a rich history. Impressive Javad Khan Street, the scenic Javad Khan Park and the beautiful Ganja Fortress are in the city. Ganja is also a great place to eat some of Azerbaijan’s best local food, and the region’s famous Ganja pilaf is a must try.

Conclusion

Take an adventure of exploring the hidden gems of Azerbaijan that go beyond the usual tourist spots, and delve into them in their heart, of its rich culture, history and natural beauty. Azerbaijan is an extremely diverse country with experiences from the ancient city of Sheki to the breathtaking landscapes of Khinalug if one is willing to go off the beaten path. Thus, if you are ready to discover these treasures, you should apply for an Azerbaijan Visa to secure your travel documents. Soon, after having your visa, country’s secret wonders are waiting to be explored.

The process is simple and easy for Indian travelers, all they need to do is apply Azerbaijan Visa from India online and they are good to go to one of the Central Asia’s least known countries. Hidden gems of Azerbaijan are a combination of history, nature and culture to give you memories that will last a lifetime.