AZERBAIJAN

Nestled at the intersection between Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan is an incredible fusion of the old and the new. From its war-torn post-Soviet-1900s, Azerbaijan has undergone a remarkable transformation and emerged as a new nation. Overshadowed by its mindboggling skyscrapers lies UNESCO World Heritage Sites, rock inscriptions tracing their roots back to the early days of human civilisation, Zoroastrian temples, and magnificent mausoleums. While the space-age architecture of the capital takes you to the next era, the medieval edifices are sure to give you a taste of the past.

Day 1- Arrival

Arrival at the Azerbaijan International Airport where you will be welcomed by your tour guide and checked in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Baku. Baku is an unpredictable city: it changes its shades in the blink of an eye. The capital city of Azerbaijan, Baku has perfected the art of mingling the charm of Parisian architecture and modernism of Emirati architecture. At the heart of this fascinating city lies the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which dates back to the sixth century. Take a stroll down the city’s Boulevard to drink in the city’s sights and sounds. Immerse in Baku’s ancient spirit as you explore Shirvanshahs Palace, Maiden Tower as well as the caravanserai complex.

Day 2 – Baku Urban Excursion

Breakfast at the Hotel followed by the first excursion at Flame Towers Complex – The trio of blue-glass skyscrapers dominates the twinkling skyline of Baku. Completed in 2012, The Flame Towers is a mirror image of the oil-rich city’s megalopolis charm. The three towers feature 28-33 storeys and promise a striking painting-like picture at night.  

Visit to the Upland Park- Also called Dagustu Park, this is known as the highest point of the city. Take a moment’s break from the hustle-bustle and catch a breathtaking bird’s eye view of Baku from this famed vantage point. You can catch a train (funicular), or take the 7-8-minute walk from the boulevard, or climb the endless stone stairs to reach the viewpoint.

Old city tour- Explore the intriguing Old City of Baku, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through its grand double gates and travel back in time: the sags of a bygone era lingers even today within the vestiges of The Old Town. It’s a maze of idyllic cobblestone streets dotted with ancient buildings. Within its fortified walls stands the majestic Shirvanshahs Palace, which boasts a thousand-year history. However, the historic icon of Baku is the 12th century Maiden Tower. You can climb to the top of the tower to catch a stunning view of the Old City and Baku Bay.

Fountain Square-The beautiful Fountain Square is named so for its stunning array of fountains that grab the attention of the beholder. This serene piazza attracts locals and foreigners alike as it has a relaxing ambience. You can see many sitting around the fountains enjoying the lively company and breezy atmosphere. The square boasts an interesting array of places to eat, drink, or shop. Baku Boulevard – Known as one of the longest promenades in the world, the Baku Seaside Boulevard is 5.75 kilometres in length.  Take a leisurely stroll along the Boulevard enjoying the stunning seascapes to wrap up the evening. The Carpet Museum, 75-metre-high parachute tower, and the International Mugham are some of the interesting places you can spot along the way, Little Venice on the Boulevard is dating from the 1960s, and makes you wonder for a moment whether you are actually in the City of Love. As one would imagine, Little Venice is adorned with shallow waterways, Venetian-inspired colonnades, and bridges. Overnight stay in Baku

Day 3 – Absheron Tour

Breakfast at the hotel followed by an excursion of the temple of fire. The Baku Ateshgah known as the Fire Temple, a flaming hearth lies at the heart of this 18th-century temple. The temple is set atop a natural gas vent and is believed to have been built by Indian settlers. Thereafter, a visit to the Yanar Dag, the burning mountainside of Yanar which is fed by natural gas seeping from the hillside. The endless flames are the reasons why Azerbaijan is called the Land of Fire.

The next visit will be to the Heydar Aliyev Centre. This ultra-modern Zaha Hadid building is a testament to the 21st century’s hunger for abstract architectural designs oozing a sense of novelty. The exterior of the building features intermixing waves and peaks that turns head. Overnight Stay in Baku.

Day 4 – Departure

Start the day with Breakfast at the hotel followed by the transfer to the Azerbaijan International Airport for the departure flight back to Colombo.

***End Of Services***

THE PACKAGE DETAILS:

  • Air Tickets
  • All transfers according to the above programme
  • The service of English speaking guides during the tours and transfers
  • Hotel accommodation in Baku at Art Hotel Baku 4*
  • Breakfast
  • Entrance free to Fire Temple and Fire Mountain
  • Daily drinking water supply for group members
  • Visa
  • Lunch based on the above programme

(Please note that all tours and transfers are private. That said, there may be other people around at the sites)