Sheki is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities of Azerbaijan. Located at a distance of about 300 km from Baku, this land attracts tourists with both its historical monuments and natural landscapes. In this place where you can feel the traces of the past at every step, mountain air and ancient architecture form a unity.
By the decision of UNESCO in 2019, the "Historic Centre of Sheki with the Khan's Palace" was included in the World Heritage List. The famous Khan's Palace built in the 18th century, the Upper Caravanserai located at the intersection of trade routes, and the Kish Albanian temple are the main stops of this tour. The shebeke (stained-glass lattice) art, which is made without nails in particular, demonstrates once again how talented the local masters are.
In addition, the cuisine of the city is also very rich and unique. During the walk, the real Sheki piti cooked in earthen pots and delicious Sheki halva must be tasted. This trip, which brings together nature, craftsmanship and history, will give you unforgettable impressions.
Tour highlights
- Acquaintance with the rare architectural pearls of the 18th century Sheki Khan's Palace, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019
- Visit to the Upper Caravanserai complex built in the style of Eastern architecture and keeping the traces of the ancient Silk Road alive
- A walk in the ancient Albanian temple in Kish village, full of secrets, considered one of the oldest Christian monuments in the Caucasus
- Visiting the workshop of shebeke (stained-glass lattice) masters who create miracles only from wood and colored glass without using nails and glue
- Tasting of real Sheki piti and traditional Sheki halva, considered the masterpieces of the world-famous local cuisine
Photos
Tour program
- 07:00
Departure from Baku to Sheki
We leave the center of Baku in the morning. The road passing through Shamakhi and Ismayilli takes about 5 hours; we make a short stop on the way for morning tea and rest.
- 12:00
Sheki Khan's Palace
We visit Sheki Khan's Palace built in the 18th century. The nail-less shebeke (stained-glass lattice) windows and wall paintings become more interesting with the guide's explanation. The palace is the main monument of the "Historic Centre of Sheki" on the UNESCO list.
- 13:30
Lunch at the Upper Caravanserai
A walk in the courtyard of the Upper Caravanserai remaining from the Silk Road era, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Coming to Sheki, it is impossible not to taste piti cooked in an earthen pot.
- 15:00
Kish village and Albanian temple
We go up to the village of Kish, a few kilometers away from the city. Passing through the stone streets, we see the Albanian temple, considered one of the ancient Christian monuments of the Caucasus.
- 16:30
Shebeke master and halva, return to Baku
We visit the workshop of the shebeke (stained-glass lattice) master, buy Sheki halva and other sweets. At about 17:00, we depart for Baku, and reach the city at night.
Included in the price
- Comfortable transportation (transportation service from Baku to Sheki and back)
- Professional guide service (Azerbaijani-speaking)
- Walking excursion in Sheki city and Kish village
- Refreshing waters and sweet snacks in the vehicle
Not included
- Entrance tickets to museums (Sheki Khan's Palace and Albanian temple)
- Lunch (Sheki piti and other personal orders)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, sweets and additional shopping)
Useful tips
- Since the distance is about 300 km and the journey will take about 5 hours, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and sports shoes.
- Since it is a mountainous area, the weather may get cool in the evening hours, don't forget to take a light jacket or warm clothing with you.
- When taking photos in museums and historical places, the use of flash may be prohibited in some rooms, pay attention to this.
- Since Sheki piti is a slow-cooked type of food, it is recommended to place the order in advance through the guide before going to the restaurant.
Sheki tour: questions and answers
Are museum tickets included in the price of the Sheki tour?
No, entrance tickets to historical places such as Khan's Palace and Kish temple are not added to the price of the tour. Participants must buy these tickets on the spot from the ticket office.
Approximately how long does the journey from Baku to Sheki take?
The journey takes about 5 hours. However, since there are regular rest breaks and a morning tea break on the way, you will not feel how the time passes.
Where will the lunch break be on the Sheki tour?
For lunch, we stop at local restaurants near the Upper Caravanserai. Most tourists prefer to order real Sheki piti prepared in special earthen pots here.
What clothes are recommended to wear for the Sheki trip?
Since our walk will be mostly on stone-paved old streets, you should wear comfortable sports shoes. It is also recommended to take a light jacket with you for the evening hours.
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