In search of the perfect issues to do in Ganja, Azerbaijan? Learn on…
Located on the historic Silk Street, Ganja, Azerbaijan’s second-largest metropolis after Baku, is a pleasant mix of historic historical past, vibrant tradition, and pure magnificence. It might not be as well-known as Baku, which is roughly 4 hours away by automotive, however it feels extra genuine and fewer touristy.
The title of the town might sound unusual within the fashionable context however it’s truly derived from the Persian phrase “ganj”, which means “treasure” or “treasury”.
9 Greatest Issues to Do in Ganja, Azerbaijan
1.Go to the Imamzadeh Advanced
Imamzadeh Advanced
The Imamzadeh Advanced is an impressive spiritual website consisting of a mausoleum, mosque, caravanserai, cemetery, and funerary monuments, all surrounded by a crimson brick wall. The advanced’s centrepiece is the fantastically embellished mausoleum, with its blue domes and complicated tile work. This Eighth-century shrine attracts each locals and vacationers for its religious significance and architectural magnificence. The advanced exudes a peaceable and religious environment, and it’s a must-visit landmark in Ganja.
2. Discover Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum
Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum
No go to to Ganja could be full with out paying tribute to one in all Azerbaijan’s most celebrated poets, Nizami Ganjavi. His mausoleum, situated simply outdoors the town centre, is a big construction that displays the nation’s delight in its literary heritage. Surrounded by fantastically landscaped gardens, the mausoleum is a peaceable area the place you’ll be able to be taught extra concerning the poet whose work has impressed Persian and Azerbaijani literature for hundreds of years. The story of Layla and Majnun is one in all his most iconic works. We visited in the course of the 5-day annual Nizami Days celebration, whereas native actors have been rehearsing a play to be staged later that day.
3. Uncover the Javad Khan Road
Javad Khan Road
Simply as Baku has Nizami Road, this bustling avenue is the center of Ganja’s social life and gives a energetic mixture of cafes, eating places, and outlets. As you stroll down Javad Khan Road, you’ll encounter a mix of recent and Soviet-era structure, alongside native distributors promoting conventional Azerbaijani sweets, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. Cease for a cup of Azerbaijani tea at one of many native cafes and soak within the vibrant environment.
4. The Shah Abbas Mosque
Shah Abbas Mosque
The Shah Abbas Mosque, constructed within the seventeenth century, is a masterpiece of Islamic structure. Its red-brick exterior and complicated tile work make it a putting landmark within the metropolis. The mosque’s serene courtyard and stylish minarets replicate the great thing about Safavid-era design. As one in all Ganja’s most necessary historic websites, it stays a spot of worship and cultural significance.
5. Stroll by means of the Heydar Aliyev Park
Triumphal Arch at Heydar Aliyev Park
Heydar Aliyev Park is likely one of the largest and most lovely parks in Azerbaijan. It options spectacular fountains and sculptures, in addition to expansive inexperienced areas and tranquil strolling paths, making it a well-liked spot for leisurely strolls, household outings, and outside actions. The Triumphal Arch on the entrance is a monumental construction that commemorates Ganja’s wealthy historical past.
The park advanced additionally consists of an amusement park referred to as “Ganjland” that provides points of interest for each kids and adults.
For the perfect expertise, go to the park within the night when it is fantastically illuminated and stuffed with native households having fun with the energetic environment.
6. Marvel on the Bottle Home
Bottle Home
One of many quirkiest points of interest in Ganja is the Bottle Home, a singular construction made solely of glass bottles. Constructed within the Nineteen Sixties by Ibrahim Jafarov in reminiscence of his brother who went lacking throughout WWII, the home is each a creative marvel and a touching memorial. It’s estimated that round 50,000 bottles have been used to create this one-of-a-kind residence. The intricate patterns and designs on the partitions make it an interesting sight for guests.
7. Calm down in Khan Bagi Park
Khan Bagi Park
For a dose of greenery and tranquility, head to Khan Bagi Park, one of many metropolis’s largest and oldest parks. This well-maintained public area is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a picnic beneath the timber. The park’s fountains, tree-lined paths, vibrant flowerbeds and tea homes present a peaceable retreat from the town’s hustle and bustle.
Tip: You possibly can see a part of the sixteenth century Ganja Fortress partitions outdoors this park.
8. Admire the attractive structure
Ganja has a wealthy architectural heritage that blends numerous historic influences, from Persian and Islamic to Russian and Soviet kinds.
Listed here are a few of its most notable buildings:
Ganja State Metropolis Corridor
Ganja Metropolis Corridor
Ganja State Philharmonic Corridor
Ganja State Philharmonic Corridor
Ganja State Drama Theatre
Ganja State Drama Theatre
The Russian Church in Ganja
Also called the Church of St. Alexander Nevsky, this can be a putting instance of Nineteenth-century Russian Orthodox structure.
Russian Church
9. Day Journey to Göygöl Nationwide Park
If time permits, go on a day journey to Göygöl Nationwide Park, a pristine pure space recognized for its crystal-clear lake and luxurious mountain surroundings. An hour away from Ganja, the lake Göygöl (which implies “Blue Lake”), is nestled on the foot of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains and is a well-liked vacation spot for climbing, picnicking, and nature pictures. The park is dwelling to a wide range of wildlife.
The place to remain in Ganja
Dashli Qala Resort,
Our household of three stayed at Dashli Qala Resort, a nostalgic Silk Route-themed resort with fashionable, spacious bedrooms and a discreet entrance main right into a buying centre.
The place to eat in Ganja
Gence Sufresi
Gence Sufresi Restaurant
We loved a scrumptious Azeri breakfast on the lovely Silk Route-themed Gence Sufresi restaurant within the buying centre.
Sah Sarayi
Sah Sarayi Restaurant
Sah Sarayi is a unusual outside backyard restaurant specialising in native Azerbaijani meals. It additionally has indoor cubicles for inclement climate. We feasted on dolmas, kebabs, ayran and different native delicacies, with the resident felines protecting us firm. Whereas ready for the meals to reach, I loved strolling across the restaurant admiring the fascinating props.
Though Ganja isn’t on most Azerbaijani itineraries, we don’t remorse including it to ours. This metropolis might not be as well-known as Baku, however its appeal and historical past make it a must-see for travellers seeking to discover the lesser-known gems of the Caucasus.
See my video on Ganja right here.
Sara Essop is a journey blogger and author based mostly in South Africa. She writes about household journey and experiences world wide. Though she has been to 49 nations up to now, she particularly loves showcasing her lovely nation and is an authorized South Africa Specialist.
