The Fast And The Fiery

Tucked between Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan is a land of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. From blazing mountains to ancient Silk Road villages, it’s a journey best experienced by road.

A mountain that has been spewing fire for over 4,000 years. A spring that flows in flames. A temple that is home to a natural torch, which, according to lore, was set alight centuries ago! This is Azerbaijan, or the “Land of Fire” — almost literally! The country is home to natural flames that have inspired myths and traditions.

A rising favourite among Indian travellers, Azerbaijan is filled with hidden gems — a country of stunning landscapes, exotic stories, and warm people — a land best explored by road.

Azerbaijan is a paradise for road trip enthusiasts, offering an unforgettable journey through ever-changing landscapes. The country’s wellmaintained roads make for a smooth drive, and the moment you leave Baku — the vibrant capital — the scenery transforms from bustling cityscapes to vast, breathtaking open spaces. Over the course of 11 days and 2,500 km, I traversed this land of contrasts, from the shores of the Caspian Sea to the towering peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. Even in March, I encountered patches of snow and ice, adding an adventurous touch to the journey. Overall, the experience was nothing short of spectacular — remarkable routes, warm hospitality, and a road trip to remember.

Fire and mud

One of the most unique experiences in this country is visiting the mud volcanoes of Gobustan, around 70 km from Baku. From Gobustan, a 10-km unpaved route leads to Dashgil Hill, where you can spot these geological formations. These little conical mounds gurgle and erupt thick, grey and cold mud. Azerbaijan is home to nearly 400 such mud volcanoes!

Another unique site is Yanardag or the Burning Mountain at Absheron Peninsula on the Caspian Sea, around 20 km from Baku. “The fire on the mountain has been burning for over 4,000 years,” said our local guide. Science says this is a side effect of the country’s plentiful natural gas reserves, which sometimes leak to the surface and catch fire! Yanardag is one of the several spontaneously occurring fires here!

Baku

Baku is a city of contrasts — an old city housed within a fortress wall set against a modern cosmopolitan with iconic buildings. The pedestrian-friendly old city complex that still houses a significant population, is dotted with ancient mosques, cobbled alleys lined with cosy cafes, art galleries and gift shops. Around it are gracefully illuminated mansions and tree-lined streets filled with luxury boutiques and hotels. This seaside city was the centre of the Shirvanshah dynasty, which ruled from the 12th to 15th century.

Silk Road Stops

You can trace the ancient Silk Route to get a glimpse into centuries of craftsmanship, trade, and tradition. Towering over the Caspian Sea, Mt. Beshbarmag along the Guba highway has long been a sacred landmark for travellers and traders journeying along ancient routes. Further inland, the mountain village of Lahic (Lahij) is renowned for its coppersmithing heritage, with artisans passing down their craft through generations. Narrow cobbled streets lined with old stone houses lead to workshops where intricate copperware is still made by hand. Visitors are often welcomed into homes for a taste of local hospitality and timeless traditions. Near the Iranian border, Lankaran buzzes with markets selling exotic fruits and local tea, reminiscent of its past as a vibrant trading post. In Nij, near Gabala, the presence of an Albanian church and a strong Christian community highlight the region’s diverse cultural tapestry, shaped by Silk Road influences.

One of the most remarkable stops is Sheki, a jewel of the Silk Road. The town’s historic caravanserais, mosques, and a hammam reflect its rich trading history. The magnificent Sheki Khan’s Palace, adorned with shebeke — a delicate art form in which wooden latticework holds coloured glass without nails or glue — is a masterpiece of Azerbaijani craftsmanship, preserving the artistic legacy of the Silk Route.

Astara

Astara, a beautiful border town with lush forests, Caspian Sea beaches, waterfalls and tea plantations, is most famous for Burning Spring or Yanar Bulag, where the water burns when ignited due to its uniquely high methane content. Also, explore the Hirkan National Park – a UNESCO-listed forest that is home to rare wildlife, the ancient ironwood tree, and the spectacular Sim Village waterfalls!