Basut-Chay State Reserve Travel Guide

Basut-Chay State Reserve, nestled in the valley of the Basutchay River in Azerbaijan's Zangilan district, is a protected area established in 1974 to preserve the unique oriental plane tree. The reserve spans 107 hectares, with plane trees covering 93.5% of its territory. These trees, some of which are 1200-1500 years old, reach heights of 50 meters and trunk diameters of up to 4 meters.The reserve's landscape features the asymmetrical Basutchay Valley, with a steep right side and a flatter left side. The climate is moderately warm, with hot summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature is 13.3°C. The reserve is home to diverse flora, including oak, Caucasian hornbeam, and juniper. Wildlife includes wild boar, roe deer, wolves, jackals, badgers, and hares.Visiting Basut-Chay State Reserve offers a serene experience, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. The winding trails lead through dense forests and alongside tranquil streams, providing a chance to connect with nature. The reserve shares similarities with the nearby Shikahogh Reserve, making it a valuable ecological site in the region.