Lahij and Shamakhi: Explore Ancient Azerbaijan

Explore ancient Shamakhi and Lahij on a private tour. Discover history, nature, and local crafts on the Great Silk Road.

Duration: 12 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Baku - After the meeting, we will begin our tour to the Diri Baba Mausoleum, situated between Baku and Shamakhi. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
  • Diri Baba Mausoleum - Upon arrival, the guide will provide a historical overview of the site while walking around and inside the mausoleum. This 15th-century, two-storied mausoleum-mosque, built in 1402 from white limestone in a cave on a glyptic cliff, is surrounded by many legends and ancient mysteries, attracting numerous curious visitors. Guests will spend 30 minutes here before heading to the Shamakhi Juma Mosque. The admission fee to the mausoleum is 6 USD per person.
  • Juma Mosque - The drive from Diri Baba Mausoleum to Juma Mosque takes about 30 minutes. Shamakhi Juma Mosque, one of the oldest Muslim temples in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus, was built in 743. Despite partial destruction of its minaret in the 1902 earthquake, the mosque’s three mehrabs and tripartite internal structure attest to its ancient origins. Visitors must remove their shoes and women must cover their heads, with free head coverings provided at the entrance. Guests will spend about 30 minutes here.
  • Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum - Located 15 minutes from the Juma Mosque in the Shamakhi region, Yeddi Gumbaz Mausoleum is a cemetery 1.5 km south of Şamaxı. Three mausoleums from the “Yeddi Gumbaz” group, dating back to the early 18th century, remain intact, while others are partially destroyed. The oldest mausoleum, built in 1810, is eight-edged with niches covered by arch-shaped half-cupolas.
  • Zernava Bridge - The tour continues to the Ismayilli region, with the next stop being the Hanging Bridge (Zernava Bridge), a 60-minute drive from Yeddi Gumbaz. Here, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and the view of the majestic canyon and suspension bridge.
  • Lahij - The final stop is Lahij village, a 40-minute drive from the Hanging Bridge. Known for its copper craftsmen and ancient human settlements, Lahij is famous for its authentic handicrafts, particularly copper work, and carpet and rug crafts. The village also boasts an old sewage system, possibly 1000–1500 years old, and unique construction techniques developed due to frequent earthquakes. Guests will spend about 1.5 hours here, observing live handicraft processes and more. The tour concludes with a return to Baku, taking approximately 4 hours with technical stops along the way.
What's Included
  • Professional Licensed English Speaking Guide
  • Professional Driver Service
  • Hotel pickup & Drop-off
What's Not Included
  • Diri Baba Mauseloum - 6 USD
Additional Information

Discover two of Azerbaijan’s ancient and historical sites in Lahij Village and the Shamakhi regions. During this full-day tour, visit renowned and scenic nature-loving tourist spots located on the Great Silk Road. Learn about the history of these ancient cities, including Azerbaijan’s first mosque, the unique medieval architectural monument Diri Baba Mausoleum, and one of the oldest human settlements, Lahij, from your guide. Explore ancient monuments and traditions, and witness the craftsmanship of local artisans creating hand-made copper items, knitted and woven goods, wood and leather products, souvenirs, and more. Enjoy the seasonal variations and create unforgettable memories of your visit.

Location
Baku
Cancellation Policy

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

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minimum 2 guests
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up to 15 guests
2 Adult
October 2024
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