Balakan - Discovering Azerbaijan

Travelling to Balakan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Balakan, a pretty good destination in Azerbaijan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Balakan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Balakan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Azerbaijan, here's everything to know about Balakan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Balakan

Balakan is a district located in the northwestern part of Azerbaijan, near the border with Georgia. It covers an area of 1,620 square kilometers and has a population of around 89,000 people. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, including mountains, waterfalls, and forests. It is also home to several historical and cultural attractions, such as ancient mosques, tombs, and fortresses. The local economy is mainly focused on agriculture, with tobacco, tea, and hazelnuts being the primary crops grown in the region. Balakan is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing.

What to visit in Balakan

Balakan is a small city located in the northwest of Azerbaijan, near the border with Georgia. Even though it is not as popular as other tourist destinations in Azerbaijan, Balakan has a lot to offer for nature lovers and those who are interested in the country's culture and history. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Balakan: 1. Ilisu Waterfall - Ilisu Waterfall is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Azerbaijan. It is located in the village of Ilisu, about 20 kilometers from Balakan city. The waterfall is 50 meters high and surrounded by stunning nature, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
2. Khudat Observatory - The Khudat Observatory is located in the village of Khudat, about 25 kilometers from Balakan city. The observatory offers breathtaking views of the stars and galaxies, and visitors can learn more about space and astronomy.
3. Duzdag Physiotherapy Center - Duzdag Physiotherapy Center is a unique salt cave located in the village of Kusar, about 40 kilometers from Balakan city. The cave has healing properties and is great for respiratory and skin problems.
4. Kish Church - Kish Church is an ancient church located in the village of Kish, about 15 kilometers from Balakan city. It was built in the 12th century and is considered to be one of the oldest churches in Azerbaijan. 5. Balakan History and Ethnography Museum - The Balakan History and Ethnography Museum is located in the city center and displays various artifacts related to the history and culture of the Balakan region.
6. Balakan Forest Reserve - Balakan Forest Reserve is a protected area located in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains. It offers a variety of hiking trails, wildlife and bird watching, and is a great place to enjoy nature.
Overall, Balakan is a great destination for those who want to explore the natural beauty, history and culture of Azerbaijan, away from the crowds of more popular tourist destinations.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Balakan.

When to go on holiday to Balakan

The best time to visit Balakan, Azerbaijan is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny with longer daylight hours. It's also the perfect time to explore the region's natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, you may want to consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists, making it easier to find affordable accommodation and avoiding long queues at popular sites.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Balakan

To get to Balakan, Azerbaijan, you can take a flight to the nearest airport which is the Ganja International Airport (KVD). From there, you can take a taxi or public transportation to Balakan which is approximately a 2-hour drive away.
You can also take a train from Baku (the capital city of Azerbaijan) to Balakan, which is a scenic journey that takes about 9 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Baku or other major cities in Azerbaijan to Balakan, however, the travel time will vary depending on the distance and stops along the way.
It is always advisable to check the schedules and availability of transportation options in advance and plan accordingly.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Balakan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Balakan

Sure, here are some typical foods of Balakan, Azerbaijan: 1. Piti: This is a lamb-based soup that is cooked in individual clay pots with chickpeas, potatoes and a variety of regional spices.
2. Kebabs: Kebabs are made of marinated meat – usually lamb or chicken - that is grilled on skewers over open flames.
3. Dolma: This dish consists of grape leaves stuffed with spiced rice, ground meat and herbs.
4. Pakhlava: This is a sweet, layered pastry made with filo dough, honey and nuts, usually eaten during holidays and family gatherings.
5. Qutab: This is a thin, rectangular flatbread usually filled with ground lamb or beef, onions, and herbs like cilantro and parsley.
6. Levengi: Levengi is a traditional Azerbaijani dish that consists of thinly sliced lamb or beef that is cooked with onions and spices, usually served with rice.
7. Qajar: This is a traditional Balakan dessert made from ground walnuts, honey and flour.
8. Shekerbura: Shekerbura is a cookie-like dessert that is typically filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with sugar or honey.
You can find general info about typical foods in Azerbaijan here.

Is Balakan an expensive destination for tourists?

Balakan, Azerbaijan is not a very popular tourist destination, but it is a beautiful part of the country with many natural attractions such as forests, mountains and rivers. Compared to some other destinations in Azerbaijan, Balakan can be considered relatively expensive for tourists, especially for accommodation and meals. Prices for hotels and restaurants vary depending on the location and level of comfort. However, it is still possible to find budget-friendly options in the area. It ultimately depends on your budget and travel style.

Where to find accomodation in Balakan

Balakan is a small town located in the north-western part of Azerbaijan, near the border with Georgia. As such, there aren’t many hotel options available in the immediate vicinity, but there are still a few options to consider.
The first area to consider is Balakan town itself. There are a few budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels in the town, including the Balakan Hotel, the Guest House Bonifacio, and the New City Hotel. These options are convenient if you want to be close to the town's attractions and local amenities.
Another option is to stay in neighboring towns such as Zagatala or Sheki, as they offer a wider range of accommodation options for tourists. These towns are located about 30-40 km from Balakan and can be easily reached by car or public transport.
Finally, for a more rural experience, you can choose to stay in a nearby village such as Jafarli or Bum. These villages are located in beautiful natural surroundings and offer a quieter, more peaceful stay. However, keep in mind that the accommodation options in these villages may be more limited.
Overall, the best areas to find accommodation in Balakan depend on your priorities and budget. The town of Balakan is the most convenient option, but neighboring towns and villages may offer more amenities and beautiful surroundings.
You can check hotel prices at Balakan here:
Booking.com

Is Balakan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Balakan is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Azerbaijan as a whole is a relatively safe country with a low crime rate. However, as with any destination, it is important to take normal precautions to ensure personal safety and security. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Additionally, it is always recommended to use common sense and follow local laws and customs.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Azerbaijan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Balakan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Balakan the most?

Balakan, Azerbaijan is a great place for all types of travelers as it offers a variety of experiences. Couples and young people looking for fun can enjoy the city's lively nightlife and outdoor activities such as hiking and camping in the nearby mountains.
Families can also have a great time in Balakan, as there are several family-friendly activities and attractions such as visiting the local zoo or exploring the surrounding nature parks. The city's rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks can also be interesting for families to explore.
Overall, Balakan is a destination that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers.

How to get around Balakan

The most common forms of transportation in Balakan, Azerbaijan are taxi and mini-bus. Taxis are usually easily available and relatively affordable. Alternatively, mini-buses (known as "marshrutkas" in Azerbaijan) are a popular mode of transportation for locals, and they follow established routes throughout the city. It's important to note that public transportation in Balakan is generally less frequent and less reliable than in larger cities, so it's always a good idea to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get around.

What to see around Balakan

Sure, there are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Balakan, Azerbaijan. Here are some suggestions: 1. Sheki: It's a beautiful historic city located about 70 km south of Balakan. The city is known for its unique architecture, including its traditional houses with elaborate wooden carvings. You can also visit the Sheki Khan's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Ilisu Waterfall: It's a gorgeous waterfall situated approximately 45 km southeast of Balakan. The waterfall is located in a peaceful forest, and it's a great spot for a picnic or a nature walk.
3. Lake Göygöl: It's a stunning lake located around 90 km west from Balakan. The scenery around this lake is picturesque, with mountains in the background and crystal clear water. Make sure to bring your camera! 4. Zaqatala National Park: It's a beautiful national park located around 50 km east of Balakan. This park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including wolves, bears, and rare bird species. You can take a guided tour of the park and explore its trails and natural wonders.
5. Turyanchay Reserve: It's a scenic natural reserve located about 20 km southeast from Balakan. The reserve boasts an impressive gorge, a stunning waterfall, and a network of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the landscape.
I hope these suggestions help you plan an exciting day trip from Balakan!
For every travel information about Azerbaijan you can click here.

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