Qaranohur, Shamakhi Travel Guide

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Discover Qaranohur Lake: Hike through lush forests, witness mountain views, and immerse yourself in Azerbaijan's alpine beauty.

Qaranohur, also known as Black Lake, is a stunning high-altitude lake nestled in the Ismayilli region of Azerbaijan. Surrounded by lush forests and the Caucasus Mountains, it offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

A brief summary to Qaranohur

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Qaranohur.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the steep and uneven terrain.
Bring plenty of water and snacks for the hike.
Check the weather forecast as mountain weather changes rapidly.
Purchase a Shahdag National Park ticket at the entrance in Talistan village.
Visit during spring or fall for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

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Explore Qaranohur on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Qaranohur, mapped for you.

Getting There

Hiking

The final approach to Qaranohur Lake involves a 5-6 km hike from Talistan village, the starting point for most visitors. From Talistan's center, follow the marked trail into Shahdag National Park. The path ascends through a pistachio forest, crossing a riverbed (often dry in late summer). Continue past the forest, following the trail alongside a high rock wall with mountain views. The final section becomes steeper as you approach the lake. A park entrance ticket is required, obtainable at the park entrance in Talistan village. Entry fee is approximately 5 AZN.
Taxi

From the center of Gabala, a taxi ride to Talistan village, the gateway to Qaranohur Lake, takes approximately 20 minutes and costs around 10-15 AZN. Confirm the price before starting your journey. From Talistan, the final 5-6 km to the lake is only accessible by hiking.

Discover more about Qaranohur

Qaranohur, often described as Azerbaijan's hidden beauty, is a captivating alpine lake in the Ismayilli district, approximately 8 km northeast of Ismayilli city. It resides within Shahdag National Park, near Talistan village, at 1,540 meters above sea level. The lake is part of the Qaranohur River basin, sourced from the Greater Caucasus Mountains.The name 'Qaranohur' translates to 'Black Lake' in Azerbaijani, 'qara' meaning 'black' and 'nohur' denoting 'lake,' 'water reservoir,' or 'swamp'. Its high mineral content renders the water unsuitable for agriculture, hence the name.Qaranohur has gained popularity among ecotourism enthusiasts, offering a peaceful retreat about 2.5 hours from Baku. The journey involves a scenic 5-6 km hike from Talistan village through a pistachio forest. The trails also meander through Diyalli, Qarsala, and Köhnədaxar villages.Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the surrounding forests. The crystal-clear waters reflect the mountains and forests, creating a picturesque scene. The area is home to diverse flora and fauna, attracting nature lovers, bird watchers, and photographers. The lake is considered sacred by locals and visited for spiritual reflection.Researchers have studied Qaranohur, revealing its high water mineralization (over 1000 mg/l) and summer temperatures around 15°C. Water temperature varies with depth and distance from the shore. In winter, the lake transforms into a glistening ice expanse.