Day 1 -11^th

Azerbaijan was lined up 3 years ago and the time to travel solo was on the scene.2:30 AM flight was destined and the wait was unparalleled. Tiring night yet exciting as it was my 4^th solo International after a long-time gap. The view from the plane crossing Asia & moving towards Europe was thrilling.

Crossing Caspian Sea

Modern Hotel , Baku

Azerbaijan airlines view through Air Arabia

For the first time in Air Arabia and what a service. On dot departure and arrival. Kudos!

 Touch down Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan with drowsy eyes. With quite a hassle, met my driver who was really sweet and the moment I was out of the airport, the winters hit me hard. It was freezing! Driver helped me get the sim, Azer cell - 80 manat, currency of Azerbaijan (Shah Rukh fans, I caught you smile) for 10GB which was reasonable than the rates in airport. Checked in by 1:30 PM (Azerbaijan is 1:30 min behind IST) in Modern Hotel, Baku. MTR Ready to eat was a savior. Cold had caught me up tight and to my luck, I had exactly carried the medicines required. 

It was a rest day & a good night to day 1 while I dreamt of the next day gazing at the hotel window.

Day 2 :12^th  Baku city tour

Breakfast in the hotel was not as expected as it was continental with a few veg options. But thanks to my culinary skills, prepared sandwiches almost every day with brown bread, veggies, salt & pepper which satisfied my taste buds and also filled my tummy. Old Baku city tour was planned for the day. Funicular ride towards the flame towers costing 1 manat each way was the highlight to me. Highland Park is undoubtedly one of the must-visit spots in Baku, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Caspian Sea. Perched on a hill, this park is an ideal place for a relaxing stroll, photography, or simply soaking in the serene ambiance. The park’s well-maintained pathways lead to scenic viewpoints, including a stunning vista of the Flame Towers, one of Baku’s iconic landmarks. If you visit during the evening, you’ll witness the city lights shimmering like jewels, creating a magical atmosphere. Another highlight of Highland Park is its proximity to the Martyrs’ Alley and Eternal Flame memorial, which adds a layer of historical significance to your visit. The blend of tranquillity and history makes the experience truly unique.

Azerbaijan is called the "Land of Fire" due to the prevalence of natural gas seeps and resulting fires in the country, particularly on the Absheron Peninsula. This phenomenon, documented since ancient times, has been a source of fascination and historical significance, including influencing the Zoroastrian religion and folklore. Azerbaijan is a geographical name. On one hand, this name is linked with the population, which lived in this region for thousands of years before our era, and who were mostly fire-worshippers. The local population considered that fire was their God and so they worshipped the fire. "Azer" means fire. Highland Park is an ideal place for a bird’s eye view of Baku. From here you can observe the whole city and the Flame Towers, Baku Bay and even the Caspian Sea. It is most beautiful early in the evening when the lights come on to give the city a lovely glow. Do not forget to take your camera with you because the scenery is amazing!

Flame tower - Are a group of three skyscrapers in Baku, Azerbaijan. The main contractor, Dia Holdings, is owned by two brothers who are linked to Azerbaijan's ruling Aliyev family's network of offshore companies. Inside the towers, there are luxurious rooms of the five-star Fairmont Baku hotel, office space, residential apartments, a cinema, spa, and restaurants. An interesting fact: in addition to the tongues of flame, the towers resemble an opened pomegranate fruit, which is also an integral symbol of Azerbaijani culture.

Birds eye view of the Caspian Sea

Flame towers behind me

Funicular ride

Martyrs’ Alley - Martyrs' Lane or Alley of Martyrs formerly known as the Kirov Park, is a cemetery and memorial in Baku, Azerbaijan dedicated to those killed by the Soviet Army during Black January 1990 and in the First Nagorno-Karabakh War of 1988–1994.

Baku fortress - The Fortress at Veli Memmedov Street 13 in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a remarkable historical site that offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient past. Known locally as the "Old City Fortress" or "Baku Fortress," this structure is part of the larger Icherisheher, or Inner City, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fortress is a testament to Baku's strategic importance throughout history and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

What makes the fortress unique is its blend of defensive architecture with the rich cultural heritage of Baku. As you walk through the fortress, you'll notice the intricate stone carvings, inscriptions, and decorative elements that reflect the influence of Persian, Arabic, and Ottoman styles. The fortress also includes several key structures, such as the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, both of which are significant in their own right and add to the historical value of the site.

Maiden Tower - One of the most fascinating legends associated with the fortress is the story of the Maiden Tower. According to local folklore, a king built the tower for his daughter, who, upon learning of her forced marriage to a man she did not love, threw herself from the top of the tower into the Caspian Sea. This tragic tale has become an integral part of Baku’s cultural heritage, and the Maiden Tower remains a symbol of the city.

Palace of the Shirvanshahs – It is a 15th-century palace built by the Shirvanshahs and described by UNESCO as "one of the pearls of Azerbaijan's architecture". It is located in the Inner City of Baku, Azerbaijan and, together with the Maiden Tower, forms an ensemble of historic monuments inscribed under the UNESCO World Heritage List of Historical Monuments. The complex contains the main building of the palace, Divanhane, the burial-vaults, the shah's mosque with a minaret, Seyid Yahya Bakuvi's mausoleum (the so-called "mausoleum of the dervish"), south of the palace, a portal in the east, Murad's gate, a reservoir and the remnants of a bath house. Earlier, there was an ancient mosque, next to the mausoleum. There are still ruins of the bath to the west of the tomb.

Baku Boulevard – Stretching along the Caspian Sea, this scenic promenade offered something for everyone—whether it was the fresh sea breeze, fun attractions, or simply quality time together surrounded by beautiful views. I started my walk near the Flag Square, where the sea and sky seemed to blend into each other. The wide, well-maintained paths made it easy to stroll side by side . There were benches every few meters, lovely gardens, and public art installations that sparked lots of conversation (and selfies!). What stood out most was the balance of nature and modern design—lush greenery, fountains, and palm trees all set against the backdrop of futuristic architecture like the Baku Eye (Ferris wheel) and the Crystal Hall.

Little Venice - The peaceful waterways stretch along Baku Boulevard, where you can hop on a tiny gondola and float under decorative bridges while enjoying views of the Caspian Sea.

Carpet museum - The Azerbaijan Carpet Museum is the treasury of Azerbaijan national culture. Established for researching, keeping and displaying carpets and carpet items, as well as applied art works, the Museum has the largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets in the world, of different weaving techniques and materials. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum.​ It was the first specialised museum of carpets in the world. The exhibition includes three floors: 1st floor: Development of Azerbaijan carpet and its role in traditions. 2nd floor: Azerbaijani carpet weaving schools. 3rd floor: Carpet weaving of the contemporary period.

Museum of Miniature Books - The Baku Museum of Miniature Books is the only museum of miniature books in the world, settled in the old part of Baku, called Inner City. The museum started its operation on April 2, 2002. In 2015, the Museum of Miniature Books was presented the Certificate of the Guinness Book of Records as the largest private museum of miniature books.

I had almost lost my energy after visiting these places. At last, there was another place to visit which could not be missed.

Berry juice and pomegranates are available almost everywhere .

Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center - Located in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center is a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid. Whether you're interested in culture, or architecture, or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, the Heydar Aliyev Center is definitely worth a visit. The multifunctional hall hosts different educational and scientific competitions and projects for the development of science, education, health, sports, culture and economy. Heydar Aliyev Center also hosted solo exhibitions of the world-famous artists, sculptures and photographers. The Museum describes the history of Azerbaijan and different stages of Heydar Aliyev's life and work. The information is communicated to visitors in an interactive format. On the ground floor of the museum, cars used by Heydar Aliyev in different periods of his rule are exhibited.

It was a day filled with ample amount of knowledge and miles of walks together.

Day 3 – 13^th Nohur lake & Gabala

With a distance of 220 kms from Baku is a beautiful hill station, Gabala .

Nohur Lake is one of the most popular and visited natural attractions of Gabala, Azerbaijan. Located about 5 km east of the Gabala city, the lake is surrounded by the forests and high mountains called Yumru, Goydag and Gulluburun. The lake covers 240 ha in total and has the maximum depth of 24 meters. Nohur Lake offers many attractions and activities for visitors who want to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquillity of the lake and its surroundings. Visitors can engage in fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and horse riding.

Gabala, a unique town on the slopes of the Greater Caucasus Range, is famous for its rare combination of beautiful mountain landscapes, historical monuments and a lot of tourist attractions. Surrounded by the silence and tranquillity of magical pine woods and nestled near the peaceful Nohur lake, Gabala is a peaceful sanctuary of magnificent forests and cooling mountain waterfalls. The resort is usually open from December to March, and this is when you can enjoy snow activities. Winter temperatures can be cold, often dropping below freezing, so be prepared for chilly weather. I had perfectly planned my trip for the snowfall season and the view was breath taking. I did take the cable car rides and spent some time on the mountain top enjoying the snowfall.

Day 4 – 14^th Yanardag & Absheron fire temple

With a drizzle around the city, we headed towards Yanardag . Yanardag, meaning "burning mountain" in Azerbaijani, is a natural gas fire on the Absheron Peninsula near Baku, Azerbaijan. It is a well-known tourist attraction and a geological wonder due to the flames that have been burning there for thousands of years. The fire results from natural gas leaking from the rocks and igniting upon contact with air.

• Location:

Yanardag is located in the village of Mammadli, on the Absheron Peninsula, about 27 km from Baku, Azerbaijan. 

• Cause of the fire:

The fire is caused by the natural leakage of methane gas from the porous sandstone layer on the hillside. The gas is ignited when it comes into contact with the air. 

• Historical Significance:

The flames have been burning there for potentially thousands of years, and have been a source of fascination for travellers, including Marco Polo. 

• Visitor Information:

Yanardag is open to the public and features a museum and visitor center with exhibition areas, a café, and other facilities. There are rules and regulations in place for visitors, such as no professional photography without permission and the need to dispose of waste properly. 

• Other Interesting Facts:

• The area of Yanardag is about 64.55 hectares. 

• The flames can reach up to 3 meters in height.

• Yanardag is part of a state-protected natural reserve. 

The Absheron Fire Temple, also known as the Ateshgah in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a historically significant religious site and former monastery. It is located on the Absheron Peninsula and was a place of worship for Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs. The temple was built over natural gas vents, which were used for fire rituals, and while the natural flame is no longer active, the fire temple complex is preserved as an architectural reserve. 

• Historical Significance:

The Ateshgah was a place of worship for Zoroastrians, Hindus, and Sikhs, who all venerated the natural gas flames. The temple's origins date back to the 7th century, with mentions of the "eternal flames" by travelers to the region. 

• Architecture:

The temple is a five-cornered complex with an entrance portal surrounded by protective battlement walls. It is a well-preserved architectural reserve, offering insights into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. 

• Eternal Flames:

The temple's name, "Ateshgah," means "house of fire" in Persian. The natural gas vents that provided the eternal flames have been replaced by gas pipes, but the fire burns on occasion. 

• Cultural Tapestry:

The temple's history reflects the diverse religious and cultural traditions of the region, with inscriptions in Sanskrit and Punjabi, indicating its use by Indian merchants. 

• Tourism:

The Ateshgah is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to explore the ancient temple complex and learn about its history and significance. 

• Zoroastrianism:

Zoroastrianism, with its reverence for fire, played a significant role in the temple's history and the region's cultural landscape.

That was all about the day and the rest of the day was free to relax.

Day 5-15^th Visit to Shadag

Around 215 from Baku is Shahdag, a mountain and a ski resort in northern Azerbaijan, located in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. It's known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for both winter and summer activities. The mountain itself is part of the Shahdag National Park, the largest in both Azerbaijan and the Caucasus region. Shahdag in Azerbaijan is famous for being a mountain resort and national park that offers a blend of winter and summer activities, stunning landscapes, and a unique cultural experience. It's particularly known for its ski resorts, adrenaline activities like the roller coaster and paragliding, and the chance to explore the Greater Caucasus range's natural beauty. 

It was a 3 hr ride & the moment I started to approach, I could guess how the day could be.It was almost -5 deg and thank god , I had carried woollen gloves and 3 layered jackets with a hiking shoe. There were plenty of adventure activities to try out. I did take the cable car ride to reach a top of snow mountain. The view was spectacular. Spent almost an hour talking to locals, fellow travellers and clicking pictures.

Qusar district, very close to Russia border from Europe.

Here's a more detailed look at what makes Shahdag famous:

• Ski Resort:

Shahdag boasts a major ski resort, attracting visitors for winter sports and skiing.

• Adrenaline Activities:

The resort offers a range of thrilling activities beyond skiing, including the Shahdag Coaster, paragliding, and other outdoor adventures. 

• Natural Beauty:

Shahdag's location within the Greater Caucasus range provides stunning landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, mountain lakes, and pristine areas. 

• Cultural Experience:

Visitors can explore traditional ways of life in the region.

Shahdag National Park:

The area is home to Shahdag National Park, a protected area known for its well-preserved ecosystem and diverse flora and fauna. 

• Summer Activities:

Beyond skiing, the resort and surrounding area offer a variety of summer activities like hiking, cycling, and more. 

 There were plenty of food stalls to try out and after tasting a slice of pizza and tea,we left back to Baku while shopping some sweets and souvenirs .

Azerbaijani sweets are known for their rich flavors and intricate designs. Popular options include Shekerbura, a pastry filled with a mixture of nuts, sugar, and spices, and Pakhlava (Azerbaijani baklava), a layered dessert made with honey and nuts. Shor-gogal, a round pastry filled with a variety of spices, is also a well-loved treat, especially during Nowruz (New Year). Other notable sweets include Badambura (almond pie), Mutaki (nut twists), and Kurabye (biscuits). All of the pasteries are made using honey as Azerbaijan is known for its honey, with beekeeping a traditional practice and the country having favorable conditions for honey production. The country has diverse climate types and rich nectar vegetation, contributing to a relatively high honey output. Azerbaijan also has regulations and initiatives aimed at improving the beekeeping sector, including monitoring, establishing bee gardens, and introducing new bee species.

Black tea called chay in Azerbaijani, tea and tea customs reflect ancient traditions and local hospitality. Black tea is often served to guests, poured into the traditional armudu glass, or pear-shaped glass, said to keep tea hot at the bottom while helping it cool faster at the top, maintaining a constant temperature. Most of the tea varieties come with pure uncut full tea leaves mixed with local berries and nuts. Azerbaijan has a variety of berry production, with blueberries and other wild berries being cultivated. Blueberry harvest is typically from June to July, with some berries kept in cold storage for domestic sales until mid-October. Other berries like cornelian cherry and feijoa are also grown and consumed in Azerbaijan. 

Tea

Lentil soup

Flag hung in every building and none of them are hung improperly or faded.

Azeris are patriotic!

Day 6-16^th

Woah, that was a beautiful and thrilling trip to Azerbaijan and time to return back to Bangalore in an afternoon flight. Reached Bangalore by 2 AM on 17th with  lovey memories and off course the jet lag!