Upper Caravanserai: A Silk Road Haven in Sheki

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Explore Sheki's Upper Caravanserai: A beautifully preserved Silk Road caravanserai offering a unique glimpse into Azerbaijan's rich history and culture.

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Upper Caravanserai

The Upper Caravanserai in Sheki, Azerbaijan, is an 18th-century Silk Road relic, offering a glimpse into the past as a haven for weary merchants. Today, it functions as a hotel and cultural site, showcasing traditional Azerbaijani architecture and providing an immersive historical experience.

A brief summary to Upper Caravanserai

185 Mirza Fatali Akhundzada, Sheki, 5500, AZ

Monday 11 am-7 pm
Tuesday 11 am-7 pm
Wednesday 11 am-7 pm
Thursday 11 am-7 pm
Friday 11 am-7 pm
Saturday 11 am-7 pm
Sunday 11 am-7 pm

Local tips

Stay overnight at the Upper Caravanserai Hotel for an immersive Silk Road experience within the historic walls.
Visit the nearby Sheki Khans' Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to admire its stunning architecture and intricate glasswork.
Explore the local artisan shops in Sheki to purchase traditional Azerbaijani crafts and souvenirs, including silk products.
Sample Sheki Halva, a local delicacy, and other traditional Azerbaijani sweets and pastries.
Take a leisurely walk through Sheki's charming streets and admire the traditional architecture and picturesque landscapes.

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Getting There

Walking

From the center of Sheki, the Upper Caravanserai is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards Mirza Fatali Akhundzada street and walk along it. The Caravanserai is located at 185 Mirza Fatali Akhundzada street. The walk is relatively short and allows you to take in the local atmosphere. Note that the area around the Caravanserai is part of the historic center, so the streets may be uneven. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

Local buses (Marshrutkas) operate within Sheki. Look for buses with 'Avtovagzal' (Bus Station) written on the front, as many routes pass near the city center. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Upper Caravanserai. Bus fare is typically 0.30 AZN.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis are readily available in Sheki. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to the Upper Caravanserai should cost approximately 1-3 AZN. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt may also be available. Be sure to confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Upper Caravanserai

Nestled in the heart of Sheki, Azerbaijan, the Upper Caravanserai stands as a remarkable testament to the city's rich history and its pivotal role along the ancient Silk Road. Constructed in the 18th century, this grand structure provided weary merchants and travelers a safe haven to rest, trade, and recuperate during their long journeys. Today, the Upper Caravanserai has been meticulously preserved, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of this bygone era.The Upper Caravanserai, also known as the Upper Caravanserai Hotel, is a stunning example of traditional Azerbaijani architecture. Its fortress-like design, characterized by thick stone walls, high ceilings, and small windows, provided protection from the elements and potential invaders. The caravanserai's layout is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of travelers, featuring storage rooms for goods, stables for animals, and comfortable guest rooms for rest. The intricate stonework, arched hallways, and spacious courtyards showcase the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the Azerbaijani artisans who built it.As you approach the Upper Caravanserai, you'll be greeted by its imposing entrance, beckoning you to explore its spacious interior and beautifully designed courtyards. The main facade faces the Gurdjanachay River, with a 19th-century stone bridge located directly across from it. The building's irregular shape, resembling an asymmetric trapezoid, adds to its unique charm. The Upper Caravanserai is smaller in perimeter than the Lower Caravanserai.Today, the Upper Caravanserai operates as a hotel, allowing guests to experience the atmosphere of a bygone era firsthand. Staying in one of its historical rooms provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Silk Road legacy. The hotel also features a traditional teahouse and restaurant, where you can savor authentic Azerbaijani cuisine and enjoy the hospitality of the local people. The Upper Caravanserai is ideally located near other major attractions in Sheki, including the Sheki Khans' Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate glasswork.