Absheron Highlights Private Tour: Ateshgah, Yanardag & Mardakan
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4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
4 hours private tour - Absheron Highlights: Ateshgah, Yanardag & Mardakan
You will see:
Ateshgah Temple - The temple of fire worshippers Ateshgah.
Mardakan Quadrangular Castle (12th century)
Tuba-Shakhi Mosque (15th century)
Yanardag - One of the most famous and popular tourist places of the "eternal flame” in Azerbaijan is the mountain of Yanar Dag.
Available options
Without guide (Only Driver)
Absheron Peninsula Tour with English Speaking Guide Pick up from Hotel at 9:30 am<br/>Pickup included
With Professional guide
Absheron Peninsula Tour with English Speaking Guide Pick up from Hotel at 9:30 am<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private driver and air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Guide (if option selected)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The temple of fire worshippers Ateshgah is located at the Apsheron peninsula at the outskirts of Surakhani village in 30 km from the centre of Baku and was revered in different times by Zoroastrians, Hindus and Sikhs. This territory is known for such unique natural phenomenon as burning natural gas outlets (underground gas coming onto surface contacts oxygen and lights up). The temple in its present state was constructed in the 17th-18th centuries. It was built by the Baku-based Hindu community related to Sikhs. Pentagonal complex has an open courtyard with temple-altar in the center which was the place of pilgrimage for worshippers.
2
Mardakan Quadrangular Castle (12th century)
This imposing rectangular fortress was built in 1187–88 by order of Ahsitan I, son of Shirvanshah Manuchehr III, to commemorate a military victory. A carved inscription with his name and the date can still be seen on its main tower. The structure stands 22 meters tall and features five internal levels connected by a spiral staircase. It’s about a century younger — and 10 meters taller — than the nearby Round Castle.
Tuba-Shakhi Mosque (15th century)
Located in Mardakan village, this mosque is a rare example of Northern Azerbaijani religious architecture. Built in the 15th century, it was named after a woman who commissioned its construction — a testament to the important role women sometimes played in public life during that time.
3
One of the most famous and popular tourist places of the "eternal flame” in Azerbaijan is the mountain of Yanar Dag. Actually, it is rather a hill than a mountain, with natural gas burning on its slope from ancient times. Meter-long tongues of fire are licking the stratified earth approximately for 10 m in width, searing those who approached too close. People occupy the benches to watch the blazing hill in the evening, when its sight is most effective. Yanar Dag is located 25 km to the north from Baku. From the year 2007 Yanar Dag is declared a state-protected conservation area
What's not included
Entrance Tickets
Food and drinks
Insurance
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
7 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
About Baku
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a vibrant city where modernity meets tradition. Situated on the Caspian Sea, it's known for its futuristic skyline, historic sites, and rich cultural heritage, including the ancient Maiden Tower and the iconic Flame Towers.
Top Attractions
Maiden Tower
A 12th-century monument that is a symbol of Baku. Its exact purpose remains a mystery.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (5 AZN)
Flame Towers
Three futuristic skyscrapers that are landmarks of modern Baku. The towers are designed to resemble flames, a reference to Baku's ancient history as a center of the fire-worshipping Zoroastrian religion.
Architecture
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free to view from outside
Old City (Icheri Sheher)
The historic core of Baku, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient walls, narrow streets, and historic buildings.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, attractions within have varying costs
Baku Boulevard
A scenic park along the Caspian Sea with walking paths, cafes, and entertainment options.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free to enter, activities have varying costs
Heydar Aliyev Center
A stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid. The center hosts exhibitions, concerts, and conferences.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (depends on the event)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Plov
A fragrant rice dish cooked with saffron, meat, and vegetables. It's often served at special occasions and is considered a national dish.
Main course
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request
Dushbara
Tiny dumplings filled with minced meat and served in a broth. It's a popular street food in Baku.
Soup
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request
Baku Piti
A traditional soup made with lamb, chickpeas, and noodles, served in a clay pot.
Soup
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request
Baku Dolma
Grapes leaves or vegetables stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.
Appetizer
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian upon request
Popular Activities
Hiking in Gobustan National Park
Exploring mud volcanoes
Visiting the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory
Strolling along Baku Boulevard
Enjoying a cup of tea in a traditional teahouse
Relaxing at a local hammam (bathhouse)
Exploring the Old City
Visiting museums and historic sites
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
This is the best time to visit Baku with pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Crowds are moderate, and the city hosts several festivals during these months.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Azerbaijani
- Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Baku is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution at night, especially in less touristy areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Heydar Aliyev International Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Baku Railway Station
By bus
Baku International Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the best way to get around the city quickly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bina Taxi, Yandex.Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Old City (Icheri Sheher)
Nizami District
Khatai District
Day trips
Gobustan National Park
60 km from Baku • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and a unique desert landscape. It's a great place for hiking and exploring.
Lankaran
220 km from Baku • Full day or overnight
A city in southern Azerbaijan known for its lush greenery, historic sites, and the nearby Hirkan National Park. It's a great place for nature lovers and history buffs.
Shamakhi
120 km from Baku • Full day
A historic city known for its ancient Juma Mosque, the Yeddi Gumbaz mausoleums, and the nearby Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory. It's a great place for history lovers and those interested in astronomy.
Festivals
Baku International Jazz Festival • October
Baku International Film Festival (BAFTA) • October
Novruz Bayrami • March 20-21 (or around the spring equinox)
Pro tips
- Visit the Flame Fountain in Baku Boulevard, a unique attraction where natural gas flames continuously burn from a stone fountain
- Try traditional Azerbaijani tea in a local teahouse, such as Sazaghan Teahouse or Chaykhana #1
- Explore the Old City on foot, taking in the narrow streets, historic sites, and local markets
- Take a day trip to Gobustan National Park to see ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes
- Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, a stunning piece of modern architecture designed by Zaha Hadid
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
