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Azerbaijan

About Azerbaijan

About Azerbaijan — Tourism, Travel Guide, Visa and Essential Facts

Formal Name:

Republic of Azerbaijan

Location of Kazakhstan:

Eastern Europe

Capital:

Baku

Demonym:

Azerbaijanis

Area:

86600Sq Km

Population:

10000000

Ethnic Groups:

Other

Languages:

Azerbaijani

Religion:

Other religions

Currency:

Manat (AZN, ₼)

Best Time To Visit:

Sep-Oct

Calling Code:

994

Drives On:

Right

Visa on Arrival:

No

Major Cities:

Administrative and Territorial Structure:

59 districts, 11 cities, 1 autonomous republic (7 Districts & 1 City). Azerbaijan is subdivided into 9 regions.

Land Boundaries:

Total: 2657,1km, Land Borders: Russia (390km), Georgia (480km), Iran (765km), Armenia (1007,1km) and Turkey (15km)

Geography of Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan is a country located in Eurasia region. It is situated in Caucasus region of Eurasia. Azerbaijan Geography is dominated by three physical features. First is Caspian Sea in the east, second is Greater Caucasus mountain range in the north and third is extensive flatland in the centre of Azerbaijan. Caspian Sea’s shoreline forms a natural boundary for the country in the east. Azerbaijan is a small country in size with total area of 86,600 Sq. KM only. In the east Azerbaijan borders the Caspian Sea, Georgia and Russia to the north, Iran to the south, and Armenia to the southwest and west. Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan Nature is influenced by the fact that majority of the country is surrounded by mountains except its eastern part Caspian shoreline and some other areas. So you can see lot of mountain landscapes in Azerbaijan. The greater Caucasus mountain range is Azerbaijan’s highest elevation and Bazardyuze Dagi rising to the height of 4,485 m is the highest peak in the country.

Climate and Weather in Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan Climate varies. It has subtropical and humid climate in the southeast and subtropical and dry climate in central and eastern regions. The climatological diversity of Azerbaijan is mainly contributed by the complicated geographical location and landscape of the country, the proximity of Caspian Sea, Sun’s radiation effect and air masses of different region. There are 9 climate patterns found in Azerbaijan out of 11 Koppen climate classifications. Central lowland of Azerbaijan has semi desert and dry steppe climate and south hills of the country are covered with mild, dry winters. Climate in Azerbaijan is generally warm in coastal region and temperature falls down in areas with proximity to mountains.

One can experience good Azerbaijan Weather during the months of May, June, July, August and September. During these months Azerbaijan has pleasant average temperatures. July and August are warmest month and January is the coolest. November is the wettest month and so it is not considered the best month for visiting the country.

History of Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan History is such that it was under different empire’s rules for long periods and enjoyed only brief periods of independent statehood. Arabs arrived first into Azerbaijan in 7th century and they established Islam as the predominant religion in this land. Then in 11th century Seljuk Turks arrived and they made Turkish as the main language of the land. Later on Ottoman Turks and Iranians influenced Azerbaijan. This was followed by taking over Northern Azerbaijan by Russians in 1812 while southern part was still a province of Iran. Series of wars between Russia and Iran took place and Russia emerged victorious however this did not last for long as after the World War I in 1917, Azerbaijan got freedom as a result of Russia’s collapse.

History of Azerbaijan since 1917 saw prosperity for this young country. Oil exploration in Caspian Sea contributed heavily for generating huge wealth for the country. This period stayed for a while only and in 1920 Russians returned and they established Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic. Since then it struggled for freedom and got it only after Soviet Union collapsed.  So, Azerbaijan History is interesting and one can see the struggle of the land to get freedom. It is a small land but rich with history.

Culture and Traditions in Azerbaijan


Though Azerbaijan is largely Muslim population yet it is very much secular society looking religion as a private matter. Azeri is the language of the country and Russian language is spoken widely here. Azerbaijan Culture received major influence of Iranian, Turkic and Caucasian heritage. No one can forget Russian influence on cultural development of the country. Having footprint of past Azerbaijan in modern times is very much influenced from western culture as well. Dance is a major part of its culture. There are several folk dances of Azerbaijani people which are quite old and melodious as well. Abayi, Agir Karadagi and Alcha Gulu are some names of local folk dances.

Azerbaijan Tradition is worth experiencing. They are welcoming people and they are quite artist as well. Carpet and textile making are ancient Azerbaijani crafts which flourished in the medieval period and they became popular in entire Asia and Europe. Azerbaijani Rugs are super example of their carpet weaving and Azerbaijani carpets and textiles have always been known for their rich vegetation patterns, depictions from the poetry of Nezami Ganjavi, and traditional themes. For a very long time Azerbaijan has been known as a center where large variety of crafts took place and that continue. Another example is miniature books incorporating elaborate calligraphy and illustrations.

Food and Cuisine in Azerbaijan


The Azerbaijani Cuisine has influences of the foods of different cultures for centuries. Even today once can find that cuisine of Azerbaijan has distinctive and unique features. Many Azerbaijani foods which are an integral part of the country can now be seen in the cuisines of other neighbouring cultures. For the Azerbaijan people, food is very significant part of their culture. Their foods and cuisine are deeply rooted in the history, traditions and values of the nation. Azerbaijan has 9 climate zones out of 11 in the world, which contributes heavily in making Azerbaijan a richly fertile land which in turn contributes in richness of cuisine of the country.

Azerbaijan Food is full of greens and vegetables and there is lot of varieties as well. Vegetables like aubergine, sweet pepper, spinach, cabbage, beet, onion, radish etc are used in variety of dishes. Rice and flour products are used in national cuisine. Fresh herbs also accompany main dishes quite often. Many of Azerbaijan national food items are made of lamb and poultry meat. Light snacks are also very much part of starters of meals. Black tea is the national beverage of Azerbaijan. This is taken after food is eaten and Black Tea is offered to guests as a welcome gesture also.

Know About: Top 10 Indian Restaurants in Baku
 

Languages of Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan’s state language belongs to Oguz sub-group of the south-west branch of Turkic language. The different dialects of modern Azerbaijani languages are Eastern, Western, Northern and Southern group.
 

Interesting Facts About Azerbaijan


1. The most well-known of Azerbaijan’s burning mountains is Yanar Dag. It burns all year round due to natural gas escaping from the ground.

2. Azerbaijan is the first country in the world to declare themselves Muslim democratic country with equal rights for women.

3. Azerbaijan was the first country in the world to start organized oil drilling and around 2nd world war, produced 70% of the world’s oil supply.

4. Azerbaijan is situated on the banks of Caspian Sea, which is the biggest lake in the world.

5. Garry Kasparov, a former world chess champion, was born in Azerbaijan's capital, Baku, and attended chess school there.

6. The national animal of Azerbaijan is the Karabakh Horse. They are famed for their speed and good temperament.

7. The public transport is presented by Baku (Azerbaijan) metro and numerous minibuses. At any time of the day, you can use the services of private taxis, which will take you to the needed point in Azerbaijan.

8. The first medical aid is usually free. There are also private paid medical clinics and services, doctors that can speak a foreign language. In the chemists’ there is a big choice of medicaments and most of them are open 24 hours with their ‘Aptek’ glow sign boards.

9. The Gobustan Nature Park has been declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations. As well as half the mud volcanoes in the world, it is also home to well preserved ancient rock art and carvings, and the unique “musical stones” known as Gaval Dashgot that gives a peek into the lives of the pre-historic inhabitants of Azerbaijan.

10. People in Azerbaijan are genuinely surprised when you are trying to take pictures of something ugly, unfinished or poor. Seriously they can’t understand why don’t you shoot nice and shiny new government buildings!

11. Azerbaijan is home to half of the world’s population of mud volcanoes, over 400 in fact.

Explore: Interesting Facts about Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan Tourism — Top Destinations and Attractions

Azerbaijan, in the Caucasus region, is a country that straddles both Eastern Europe and Western Asia, so hope a clash of east meets west and you will find a lot to enjoy here. Situated on the Caspian Sea, there are peculiar subtropical seaside resorts, or you can clinch Azerbaijan’s name as the Land of Fire with an expedition to a fiery mountain or a mud volcano. There are hillside areas that hide timeworn mosques and minarets, as well as some of the most splendid contemporary architecture in the world in the shape of the Flame Towers in Baku.

Different Types of Tourism in Azerbaijan


1. Historical Tourism in Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan enjoys a rich history since 5,000 years of ages. As Islam was adopted, it also played an influential role in political development and the state's development too. Some of its historical attractions are Sheki Khans' Palace, Khudaferin Bridges, Ashaghi Govhar Agha Mosque, Shusha Castle, Uzeyir Hajibeyli’s House Museum in Shusha and many others.

2. Cultural Tourism in Azerbaijan


Azeri culture reveals the country’s region at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It places ancient and contemporary history, religion and secularity, European and Asian conduct in proximity with one another. Some of its cultural attractions are Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, Baku Old City, Baku Boulevard, Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape and many others.

3. Nature Tourism in Azerbaijan


The nature of Azerbaijan, partially wild and uninhabited and partially covered with the debris of ancient forests, is a never-ending curiosity for any traveller. The flora of Azerbaijan is particularly rich. It brings to mind a large national carpet, thanks to its light and the variety of lush colours. The region of Azerbaijan is profoundly furrowed by many rivers and mountain streams, few of which form noisy waterfalls, ring deep into the mountains.

4. Sports and Adventure Tourism in Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan is a great place for adventure travel. In 2016, the country even hosted the Grand Prix of Formula 1 in the capital of Baku. The Caucasus is great if you want to start off with a good adventure. Some of the best places to try out activities to try in Azerbaijan are in Lake Goygol, Yanar Dag, Shahdag Mountain Resort and many others.

5. Honeymoon Tourism in Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan is an alluring destination for honeymooners, a gratifying country enclosed by the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains. Its capital, Baku, is home to the age-old Inner City, an enclosed medieval city with important monuments and architecture. One of its best-recognized architecture is, of course, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the 12th-century Maiden Tower.

6. MICE Tourism in Azerbaijan


In the last decade, Azerbaijan becomes the commodity of attention of tourists. Beautiful nature, splendid culture, oriental hospitality and valuable level of service draw more and more visitor from different parts of the world. At present, the MICE industry in Azerbaijan is on the route of progress. It offers business travellers with the latest technology equipment and with all the required telecommunications,  conference halls, meeting rooms, and business centres.

7. Health and Wellness Tourism in Azerbaijan


The Health tourism in Azerbaijan is flourishing along with is cuisine, nature and beauty. Now, medical tourists can enjoy their holiday trip in beautiful spas resorts. With the country breathtaking landscape and climate, it makes the place so refreshing to experience great health and wellness. Azerbaijan was recently named in the top 5 countries for a wellness holiday.

8. Culinary Tourism in Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan’s cuisine is full of many different flavours and surprises. From roasted juicy kebabs, pilaf, fresh fish to fruits and desserts, Azerbaijan is rich in its cuisine. Each food has its own flavour with spices that are found growing in the country. Many of their dishes are amazing and taste so strong with flavours. Some of their food includes Soups, Meat Dishes, Game-birds and Poultry Dishes, Fish Dishes, Dough and Flour Dishes, Pilafs, and Azerbaijani Drinks. Explore Popular Cafes in Baku!

9. Nightlife Tourism in Azerbaijan


Baku is the main city in Azerbaijan which has the most lively and eclectic nightlife, varying from bars, clubs and discos to live music. Though it is not so popular for its nightlife, yet tourists can still enjoy their nightlife in many bars, clubs which opens up very late. As compared to most places in Central Asia, food and drinks are very reasonably priced  Most of the nightclubs have begun up in the last decade or so after the influx of oil industry expatriates. During the weekend, almost all of the bars, clubs are opened up till late morning.

10. Winter Tourism in Azerbaijan


Winter presents a selection of activities and feast that honour the oneness of the season. It is fairly long as it lasts roughly from November to March with activities that thrive there. Heavy and fluffy snow in Azerbaijan this year elevated the flow of tourists into the country. So, Shahdag and Tufandag, the most alluring sides for the regional and foreign tourists in Azerbaijan during the winter season turn out the main directions for a skiing vacation.

Read More: Summer in Azerbaijan

Celebrate: New Year in Azerbaijan

Explore: Top Experiences in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan Tour & Travel Guide

Azerbaijan, the union and former Soviet republic, is surrounded by the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, which cover Asia and Europe. Its capital, Baku, is renowned for its old walled Inner City. Within the Inner City rest the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, a noble retreat dating to the 15th century, and the centuries-old stone Maiden Tower, which dictates the city skyline.


1. Penny Wise Azerbaijan

Items

Price in Manat

Price in Dollars ($)

 Meal for 2, in mid range Restaurant, Three-course

40

22.99

 Combo Meal at McDonalds or Similar

7

4.02

 Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)

2

1.15

 Imported Beer  (330 ml bottle)

3.5

2.01

 Cappuccino (regular)

4

2.30

 Coke/Pepsi  (330 ml bottle)

0.59

0.34

 Water (330 ml bottle)

0.33

0.19

 Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)

7

4.02

 Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro)

4

2.30

 Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)

4

2.30

 Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)

0.7

0.40

 Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)

3

1.72

* Prices are our approximation and may vary slightly.
* Prices are market prices of articles and may vary at restaurants and hotels.

2. Accommodation in Azerbaijan


There are about 500 hotels in Azerbaijan, ranging from low, mid to high prices. Most of the hotel is in Baku which starts from as low as 50 manats ($30). There are many five star hotels which are built in the swell. Rooms start from 10 manats. Rooms and beds can be booked online or through tour operators.

3. Travelling in Azerbaijan


Getting in and around the country is easy with many means of public transport. If you could rent a car, then you can drive around the Azerbaijan city and get to the place that you want without any hassle, and you need to be careful of speeding as there are many traffic police who are keen fine visitors. If you take the public mode of transport, both buses and trains serve good services to get around and see places.

4. Shopping in Azerbaijan


Azerbaijan has some of the most beautiful market places to shop and bring back a souvenir. You can get some nice traditional carpets which come mostly in Persian style in many colours and patterns. On Baku’s Boulevard road, there is the carpet museum where you can find a range of them with affordable prices. There are also many malls where you can get branded items and by the street, you will find many local items and local arts and crafts.

5. Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan


The best time to visit Azerbaijan is from the month of April to June where the flowers bloom, the skies are clear and the weather is pleasant for all kinds of sightseeing. July is a good time for trekking and to be in the mountains. October starts with nice breezy autumn and a good time for visiting.

6. Azerbaijan Travel Tips


• Baku is a windy country.
• Sim card scams are a thing here.
• Always check your bill.
• Use Uber for taxi.
• Have a Bakikart (Baku card).
• Register within 9 days of arrival.
• Buy drinking water.
• Always tip after you eat.
• Good hostel and hotels.
• Don’t leave valuable items in the room.

Read: Complete Azerbaijan Travel Guide

7. Azerbaijan Flight Connections (Flight to Baku)


Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport is one of the six main airports of the country. There are many direct and indirect flights which fly to Azerbaijan with by the carrier Air Arabia from most of the metropolitan cities of India.

Destination: Baku - Azerbaijan
Pickup & Drop: Delhi International Airport
Mode of Travel (Flight Details):
 
Baku Flight Connections:

• Air Arabia has flights to Baku twice a week from 13 ports in India.
• Uzbekistan Airways has flights from Delhi to Baku via Tashkent.
• Fly Dubai has daily flights from 8 airports in India.

8. Azerbaijan Tour FAQs


If you have any query about Azerbaijan Tourism, Tourist Destinations, Attractions, Visa Process, and other tour related information then visit Frequently Asked Questions of Azerbaijan.

Explore: Best Things to Do in Azerbaijan

Book: Azerbaijan Tour Packages

Azerbaijan Visa Information

Azerbaijan Visa process takes 7 working days.

Documents Required:

• Scanned passport copy in JPG format not exceed than 1 MB.
• Soft copy of photos.

Contact for more details about Azerbaijan Tourist Visa!

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