Baku , Azerbaijan

Private Shamakhi - Lahij tour

Active

(4 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We open our exciting trip with Shamakhi village. Shamakhi is an excellent place not only to get acquainted with the history and culture of Azerbaijan but also to have a great rest among the majestic mountain ranges and green meadows.
Lahij is a notable place with its beautiful handicrafts traditions, particularly related to copper. The village’s carpet and rug crafts are very popular in the South Caucasus.

Available options

Private Shamakhi - Lahij tour

Pickup included

What's included

Professional English-speaking tour guide

Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle

Hotel pickup & drop-off

Professional Driver

Detailed itinerary

Diri-Baba is a unique monument, a two-story mausoleum of the 15th century, located on the road from Baku to Shamakhi in the village of Maraza opposite the old cemetery. For a long time, residents believed that a saint by the name of Diri-Baba was buried in this place and remained incorruptible. However, many legends and mystical details are associated with this monument. Therefore, already from the 17th century, it began to attract many pilgrims and ordinary travelers. The peculiarity of the building is that the architect as if “built-in” the tomb in the rock, and it seems as if she is holding herself “on weight,” cut off from the ground. The tomb admires the severity of architecture, the purity of the lines, and against the irregularities of the dark rock, the light and smooth surface of its walls, standing out, seems solemn.

Juma mosque in Shamakhi is unique, and it has no analogs in Azerbaijan. The huge prayer hall of the mosque is divided into three independent parts, connected by wide open apertures. Each piece has a separate mihrab and entrance. But the mosque was destroyed by wars and earthquakes, and it was rebuilt and rebuilt more than once. The mosque received a modern look in the 20th century.

Yeddi Gumbez Mausoleum or “Seven Domes,” whose appearance dates back to the 15th century, is located at the foot of the Gulistan fortress. So popularly called the tomb of the Shirvan rulers in Shamakhi. Notable representatives from the Shirvanshah dynasty are buried here. Seven domes – just as many tombstones are in the crypt.

Lahij is a village, named after the lahij tribe who came here in the 4-5th centuries from the territory of Iran. This historical and architectural monument was built in the 5th century on the territory of the canyon of the Girdimanchay river. Here preserved ancient mosques and baths, medieval water supply and sewage system.

What's not included

Food and drink

Personal expenses

Entry fees to any attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

AR RU EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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