AZ
Gabala
Forested Caucasus foothills with a mountain cable car, lakes and the ruins of an ancient capital
Forested Caucasus foothills with a mountain cable car, lakes and the ruins of an ancient capital
The Tufandag resort runs cable cars up the mountain for views across the forests, with skiing in winter and walks in summer.
Bring a jacket; it is much colder at the top.
Photo: Interfase, CC BY-SA 4.0
This calm reservoir lake near the town is backed by wooded hills, with paths and cafés along the shore.
Photo: Namikilisu, CC BY-SA 4.0
South-west of today’s town, the ruins of Chukhur Gabala mark the site of an ancient capital of Caucasian Albania. Excavations continue on its walls and gates.
Photo: Havin_HP, CC BY-SA 4.0
Nij is the main home of the Udi people, a small Christian community whose language goes back to Caucasian Albania. Its restored church is open to visitors.
Dress modestly in churches.
Photo: Press Service of the President of Azerbaijan, CC BY 4.0
Forest trails lead to the Yeddi Gozel (Seven Beauties) waterfall and higher meadows. Summer is the best time for hiking.
Photo: ProCreeper 2000, CC BY-SA 4.0
Try piti, a lamb and chickpea stew cooked in clay pots, as well as kebabs, dolma and fresh herbs. The area grows hazelnuts and pomegranates.
Riverside restaurants in the forest are popular in summer.
Gabala is about 220km north-west of Baku, around three and a half to four hours by road. Buses and shared taxis run from Baku. A train route also links Baku and Gabala; check the current timetable.
Gabala also has a small airport with limited flights. A car or driver is easiest for exploring the area.
Azerbaijan uses the manat (AZN).
Two days for the mountains and history.
Ride the Tufandag cable car, then walk by Nohur lake.
Visit the Chukhur Gabala ruins and Nij village, then hike to Yeddi Gozel.
Check opening hours and weather before going up.
A driver saves time for the ruins and villages.
Mountain weather changes quickly.
Modest dress at religious sites.
Quick answers for planning time in Gabala.
About 220km, three and a half to four hours by road.
Ride the Tufandag cable car, visit Nohur lake, hike to waterfalls and see the ancient ruins.
Yes, Tufandag has ski runs in winter.
A small Christian community, mostly living in Nij, whose language dates back to Caucasian Albania.
May to September for hiking, or winter for skiing.
Planning a wider trip? Our Azerbaijan travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.