Gabala is one of the oldest cities of Azerbaijan, possessing over 2-thousand years of history. At the same time, the region has always been an integral part of Azerbaijan, which left an as bright mark in Azerbaijan’s history as Baku, Ganja and some other cities did. Gabala was the capital of Shirvan and Shaki Khans, additionally, the Kutkashen was created on the territory of Gabala in the 18th century.
Modern Gabala, however, is located in the Shaki-Zagatala zone. There are still ruins left in Gabala, reminding us about the past of the region many centuries ago. Besides this, every person has an opportunity to enjoy the attractions of the modern Gabala, and most important -to see the mesmerizing beauty of its nature, which can charm any person 😉 This is because some call the Gabala “Azerbaijani Switzerland”. Moreover, the region is famous for it’s chestnut and walnut forests, the blooming of which all those who visit the city should definitely see.
So much just in one region! 🙂
Gabala is located 225km away from Baku and you can reach it by tour bus or other vehicles. Here is how much time it can take to reach the city with different vehicles:
By plane: 45 minutes
By bus (Baku Bus Terminal): 4 hours
By taxi: 2.5-3 hours
You can also go with the tour, where the prices per person vary from $40 to $60.
Let’s move now to the places in Gabala which every tourist has to visit. Here is the list of things to do in Gabala, and we will start by talking about the Gabala Archaeological Center.
Archaeological Center
The first thing to do is visiting the Archaeological Center in Gabala. The center itself is located near the village of Chuckur, Gabala.
One of the settlements here is the Chaggali settlement, which is the widest and the oldest part of the region. The old findings of this territory could archaeologists gain a deeper knowledge of the Gabala during ancient times. Especially these remains let us know that the Gabala existed even in 4th century B.C.! Significant findings of various weapons, glass, ceramic items, etc. investigated during the excavation of burials have crucially contributed in understanding the life of Gabala hundreds of centuries ago. But there were some gaps in the Chaggali settlement, which may be explained by the shifts of the city to other locations because of the natural disasters or the invaders’ attacks.
Besides the Chaggali settlement, the Center has additionally 2 other parts, which are Salbir settlement and Gala settlement. A lot of work has been done in this territory. In Sabir settlement, the archaeologist could investigate the 2nd-century remains which are ovens, graves, pool defense walls, etc.
The Salbir archaeological zone also has the Walls of the ancient Fortress monument. Just by looking at the walls, you can imagine how skillful the architectures were during the ancient times. The burnt bricks constituted a significant part of the monument.
“Yeddi Gozal” Waterfall
Waterfalls have always mesmerized hundreds of people with their beauty. And here is one more waterfall, which you remember for a long time – Yeddi Gozal, or Seven Beauties waterfall! This fall is located in the village in Vandam of Gabala and is flowing from one of the highest peaks of the Caucasus Mountains.
“Seven beauties” is not just a random name – it is referred to seven roads which you need to pass in order to get to the road. However, the fall is frozen in winter, so it would be better to visit the fall in spring or summer. Lots of tea houses are established along the road to the fall where you can have a seat and renew your energy with the tea or meals.
A wonderful place to take photos!
Gabaland
Imagine an Azerbaijani version of Disneyland… Yes, it’s possible here in fairy Gabaland!
The perfect place to have fun with your family or friends – unforgettable memories are guaranteed There are over 50 attractions functioning in Gabala – motorcycle rinks, volleyball and football areas, fitness center, skating rink and a lot more waiting for you. There are attractions both for adults and children – nobody will get bored 😉
The prices vary from 1 to 5 AZN for most of the attractions, excluding the football ground (25 AZN), basketball and volleyball courts (15 AZN each).
Feel the atmosphere of fun, joy, and happiness – definitely one of things to do in Gabala!
Nohur Lake
What do you usually associate the lakes with? Or do you the love lakes as much as we do?
After you visit the Nohur Lake, you will understand our eternal love to this place! Silence, relaxation and the magnificent beauty – these are the first words that come to our minds when thinking of the lake.
This Lake is the best place for you to relax if you wish to rest from the active life in noisy cities. That wonderful bird-singing perfectly accomplishes the atmosphere of nature. Come back home from here with completely refreshed and rested mind 😉
Tufandag
Each season of Gabala has something to charm you with! And the Gabala’s winter welcomes you at Tufandag Winter resort! Just go 4km away from Gabala and dive into the winter fairytale. At Tufandag any winter activities are open for you -skiing, ice-skating, riding a rope, the choice is yours! Breath in the fresh mountain air and enjoy your life here in Tufandag 🙂
But, who does not like getting warmed drinking hot tea in cold weather?! Perfect contrast 🙂
There are many different cafes and restaurants where you can take a break and taste delicious food.
You can go for a day, or spend several days there. If you choose the latter, then you can book a room in a hotel or stay in a villa.
Gabala Shooting Club
Shooting club is located in Gabala Sport club, and here many athletes are prepared for the national teams in shooting, taekwondo, soccer, judo, boxing etc. The Grand Prix of the International Shooting was held here in 2014 and 2016 years.
Besides preparing national teams, Gabala shooting center is also used for the recreational and entertainment purposes.So, here both the tourists and local residents can entertain or have a rest – you decide on the thing to do.You can also take Gabala tour for enjoying this beautiful place.
