Ismayilli

Resting at the foothills of the Greater Caucasus, Ismayilli is deeply embedded in Azerbaijan's rich tapestry of crafts, agriculture, and diverse ethnic groups. The town itself is tranquil and green, surrounded by dense forests and river valleys. However, Ismayilli is most celebrated as the gateway to fascinating nearby settlements. Just a dramatic drive into the mountains lies Lahij, an ancient village famous for its cobblestone streets and centuries-old copper craftsmanship. Another significant cultural jewel in the Ismayilli district is Ivanovka, a village founded by Russian Molokans in the 19th century. Ivanovka still operates a collective farm and is famous for its exceptional honey, sunflower oil, and unique agricultural traditions. Within Ismayilli town, visitors can find beautiful local carpets and taste rich local wines, as the region is home to a long-standing viticulture heritage. Reaching Ismayilli takes about 2.5 hours by car from Baku, navigating through scenic mountain passes. The best time to experience the region is between May and September. Summer is well-suited for escaping the lowland heat and exploring the high-altitude artisan villages, while autumn brings memorable colors to the sprawling Caucasian forests.

Nearby cities

Tufandag

Tufandag is a mountain resort located above the city of Qabala, known for its extensive cable car system and winter sports facilities.

Qabala

Qabala is a popular tourist destination in the forested mountains of the Caucasus.

Khinalug

Khinalug is a remote, ancient village situated at 2,350 meters in the Caucasus Mountains, known for its distinct language and stone archi…

Goychay

Goychay is the unofficial capital of the pomegranate in Azerbaijan.

Shamakhi

Shamakhi was once the capital of the Shirvanshah Empire and is one of the oldest cities in the Caucasus.

Qusar

Qusar is known as the northern gate of Azerbaijan and is located at the foot of the majestic Mount Shahdag.

Ujar

Ujar is a central transport hub for the Azerbaijani railway network.

Imishli

Imishli is located in the central part of Azerbaijan and benefits from the fertile Kura-Aras Lowland.

Sabirabad

Sabirabad is located at the confluence of Azerbaijan's two most important rivers, the Kura and the Aras.

History & landmarks

Ivanovka

Ivanovka is a unique village in the Ismayilli district founded by Russian Molokans in the 19th century.

Basqal

Basqal is a historic mountain village in the Ismayilli district, famous for its medieval cobbled streets.

More places

Gabala Hazelnut Plantations

Gabala is a center of agricultural cultivation, with extensive hazelnut plantations driving the local economy.

Qabaland Amusement Park

A large mountain amusement park offering carousels, an ice skating rink, and activities for the whole family.

Old Gabala Ruins

The excavation site of the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Caucasian Albania, featuring remains of fortress walls and gates from antiqu…

Ismayilli State Reserve

A mountainous nature reserve established to conserve subalpine forests and rare animal species.

Lahij

A picturesque mountain village famous for its cobbled streets and traditional copper craftsmanship.

Mount Babadag

Mount Babadag is a 3629-meter mountain frequently visited by pilgrims.

Shirvan Steppe

The Shirvan Steppe is an extensive, flat semi-desert that becomes extremely hot in summer.

Mount Tufandag

Reaching 4191 meters, Tufandag is famous for its harsh, stormy environment.