Khachmaz: The Jewel of Northern Azerbaijan

• HelloSalam
  [sah-lahm]
• GoodbyeSag olun
  [sahg oh-loon]
• YesBəli
  [buh-lee]
• NoXeyir
  [kheh-yeer]
• Please/You're welcomeXahiş edirəm
  [kha-heesh eh-dee-rehm]
• Thank youTəşəkkür edirəm
  [tuh-shehk-koor eh-dee-rehm]
• Excuse me/SorryBağışlayın
  [bah-ghish-lah-yuhn]
• How are you?Necəsən?
  [neh-jeh-sehn]
• Fine. And you?Yaxşıyam. Sən?
  [yahk-shuh-yahm. sehn]
• Do you speak English?İngilis dilində danışırsınız?
  [een-gee-lees dee-leen-deh dah-nuh-sir-seh-nuz]
• I don't understandAnlamıram
  [ahn-lah-muh-rahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseXahiş edirəm menyunu göstərin
  [kha-heesh eh-dee-rehm mehn-yuh-noo gohs-teh-reen]
• I don't eat meatMən ət yemirəm
  [muhn aht yeh-mee-rehm]
• Cheers!Sağ olun!
  [sahg oh-loon]
• I would like to pay, pleaseXahiş edirəm ödəmək istəyirəm
  [kha-heesh eh-dee-rehm oh-deh-mehk ees-teh-yeer-ehm]

• Help!Kömək!
  [kuh-muhk]
• Go away!Uzaq get!
  [oo-zahk ghet]
• Call the Police!Polisi çağırın!
  [poh-lee-see chah-ghuh-ruhn]
• Call a doctor!Həkim çağırın!
  [heh-keem chah-ghuh-ruhn]
• I'm lostMən itirdim
  [muhn ee-teer-deem]
• I'm illMən xəstəyəm
  [muhn khehs-teh-yehm]

• I'd like to buy...Almaq istərdim...
  [ahl-mahk ees-tehr-deem]
• I'm just lookingSadəcə baxıram
  [sah-deh-jeh bah-khee-rahm]
• How much is it?Nə qədərdir?
  [neh guh-dehr-deer]
• That's too expensiveÇox bahadır
  [choh bah-hah-deer]
• Can you lower the price?Qiyməti aşağı salarmısınız?
  [kee-yehm-eh-tee ah-shah-uh sah-lahr-muh-suh-nuhz]

• What time is it?Saat neçədir?
  [saht neh-jeh-deer]
• It's one o'clockBir saatdir
  [beer sah-eht-deer]
• Half past (10)Onun yarısı
  [oh-noon yah-ruh-suh]
• MorningSəhər
  [seh-hehr]
• AfternoonGünorta
  [goon-ohr-tah]
• EveningAxşam
  [ahkh-shahm]
• YesterdayDünən
  [duh-nehn]
• TodayBu gün
  [boo goon]
• TomorrowSabah
  [sah-bah]
• 1Bir
  [beer]
• 2İki
  [ee-kee]
• 3Üç
  [ooch]
• 4Dörd
  [dur-d]
• 5Beş
  [beh-sh]
• 6Altı
  [ahl-tuh]
• 7Yeddi
  [yeh-ddee]
• 8Səkkiz
  [sehk-keez]
• 9Doqquz
  [dohk-kooz]
• 10On
  [ohn]

• Where's a/the...?... haradadır?
  [hah-rah-dah-deer]
• What's the address?Ünvan nədir?
  [oon-vahn neh-deer]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mənə göstərə bilərsiz (xəritədə)?
  [meh-ne gohs-teh-reh bee-lehr-seez (khuh-ree-teh-deh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Növbəti (avtobus) neçədədir?
  [nuhvbuh-tee (ahv-toh-boos) neh-jeh-deer]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir biletlə (....a)
  [beer bee-leht-leh (ah)]

Khachmaz, a city in northeastern Azerbaijan, boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, with numerous artifacts and settlements discovered in the region. These early settlements were influenced by various ancient cultures, setting the stage for Khachmaz's diverse historical tapestry.

During the medieval period, Khachmaz became a significant waypoint on the Silk Road, the ancient trade route that connected the East and West. This strategic location brought prosperity and cultural exchange, as merchants and travelers from different regions passed through. The region's historical significance is underscored by the remnants of ancient caravanserais and fortresses that once provided shelter and security to traders.

In the 9th century, Khachmaz came under the rule of the Shirvanshahs, a dynasty that played a crucial role in the history of Azerbaijan. The Shirvanshahs contributed to the region's development, fostering an environment of learning, culture, and architecture. Their influence is evident in the historical monuments and architectural styles that can still be seen in Khachmaz today.

In the 19th century, Khachmaz, along with the rest of Azerbaijan, became part of the Russian Empire. The construction of the Baku-Rostov railway line in the early 20th century significantly boosted the city's economic development. During the Soviet era, Khachmaz underwent further transformations, with industrialization and urbanization shaping its modern identity. The legacy of this period is visible in the city's infrastructure and public buildings.

Following Azerbaijan's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Khachmaz has experienced a renaissance in cultural and economic terms. The city has focused on preserving its rich heritage while embracing modernization. Efforts have been made to restore historical sites, promote tourism, and develop local industries. Today, Khachmaz stands as a vibrant testament to the resilience and cultural wealth of Azerbaijan.

Khachmaz is located in the northeastern part of Azerbaijan. The nearest international airport is Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku, approximately 170 kilometers away. From Baku, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to Khachmaz. The train journey takes around 3-4 hours, offering scenic views of the Azerbaijani countryside. Alternatively, buses and taxis are available and provide a faster option, usually taking about 2-3 hours.

Within Khachmaz, getting around is relatively easy. Local buses and taxis are widely available and affordable. For short distances, walking is also a good option as many attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car is a viable option, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

The official currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Khachmaz, but smaller establishments may require cash payments. ATMs are available in the town, but it is advisable to carry some cash for convenience, especially for small purchases or in rural areas.

Khachmaz is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is recommended to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but remaining vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Khachmaz has local police and medical facilities available for emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are accessible in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Khachmaz like a local, visit the local bazaars where you can find fresh produce and traditional Azerbaijani goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about the town’s history and culture. Don’t miss the Khachmaz History and Local Lore Museum and the nearby Nabran resort area for a relaxing getaway. Additionally, try traditional Azerbaijani dishes such as kebabs and plov in local eateries for an authentic culinary experience.