Background

Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnography Reserve

Discover Khinaliq, Azerbaijan: An ancient mountain village with unique culture, stunning landscapes, and a rich history dating back 5,000 years.

5

Discover the ancient village of Khinaliq, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled high in the Caucasus Mountains of Azerbaijan. This remote village, with its unique culture, distinct language, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a glimpse into a way of life preserved for millennia. Explore traditional stone houses, ancient mosques, and sacred shrines in one of the highest inhabited places in the world.

A brief summary to Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnography Reserve

  • 54MC+4F7, Khinaliq, AZ

Local tips

  • Bring cash, as there are no ATMs in Khinaliq; the closest ones are in Quba.
  • Pack warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
  • Arrange meals with your guesthouse in advance, as dining options in Khinaliq are limited.
  • Consider visiting from late spring to early autumn for mild weather and accessible roads.
  • Engage with local residents to gain insights into the customs and traditions of this unique village.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Khinaliq via public transport, begin at the Baku International Bus Terminal and take a minibus to Quba (approximately 3 hours 20 minutes, 5.30 AZN). From Quba, shared taxis to Khinaliq are available near the Central Bus Station (15-20 AZN per person, or 50-60 AZN for the whole car). The taxi journey takes 1.5-2 hours.

  • Taxi

    From Quba, hire a local taxi to take you to Khinaliq. Taxis can be found near the Central Bus Station. A shared taxi typically costs 15-20 AZN per person, while hiring the entire car costs 50-60 AZN. The journey to Khinaliq takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

  • Driving

    Driving to Khinaliq from Baku takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes via the E119 highway. The road from Quba to Khinaliq is steep and winding but paved. There is a toll gate on the road closest to the Caspian Sea (10 AZN). Parking is available in the village, but it can be limited.

Unlock the Best of Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnography Reserve

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnography Reserve

The Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnography Reserve protects the ancient village of Khinaliq, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. Perched at an altitude of 2,180 meters (7,150 feet), the village boasts a history stretching back over 5,000 years. The reserve was established to preserve the unique cultural and architectural heritage of Khinaliq, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience a living history. Khinaliq is home to the Khinalug people, who call themselves the “Kettid” and speak the isolated Khinalug language, a linguistic treasure with a complex structure. The village's remote location has helped preserve its distinct culture and traditions, including semi-nomadic animal husbandry practices. The architecture is equally remarkable, with stone houses built on steep mountain slopes, the roof of one serving as the courtyard for the next. This design maximizes space and fosters a strong sense of community. Visitors can explore the village's ancient mosques, such as the 12th-century Juma Mosque, and sacred shrines, some with Zoroastrian roots. The Khinalig History and Ethnography Museum offers insights into the local lifestyle, traditions, and customs with exhibits of traditional clothing, household items, and tools. The surrounding landscapes are ideal for hiking and photography, with panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains. The village is surrounded by several depressions and plateaus, such as the Shahduz depression, Shahdag and Gizilgaya plateaux. The highest mountain peaks near Khinalig are Bazarduzu (4,466 m), Tufandag (4,191 m), Shahdag (4,243 m) and Gizilgaya (3,726 m).

Popular Experiences near Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnography Reserve

Popular Hotels near Khinalig State Historical-Architectural and Ethnography Reserve

Select Currency