This gentle route to the neighboring village of Galakhudat is ideal for those seeking a leisurely walk. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with an information board for the Galakhudat-Griz trail at the end. Begin by crossing a small river and ascending a gentle uphill path for 800m. From here, continue straight along the main road instead of taking the left turn towards Mount Gizilgaya. After approximately 6km, you’ll reach a small mountain pass with a view of Bostankesh village to the right. At the top of the pass, Galakhudat village becomes visible below steep cliffs to the left. Follow the signs leading to the village center.
The trail is accessible year-round, but May to July offers vibrant green landscapes, while December to February highlights stunning snowy mountains. Always check the weather forecast beforehand, as fog, rain, or snow can make the trail more challenging. Between May and September, be mindful of shepherd dogs near the flat area before the mountain pass and seek the shepherd's assistance if needed.
There are no cafes or restaurants in either village, though Khinalig has a small tea house. Both Galakhudat and Khinalig offer guesthouses with meals and lodging. Accommodation locations can be found on the map.
The only spring on this route is at the trail’s start in Khinalig. While Galakhudat village lacks springs directly on the trail, locals are usually happy to provide water. Carry 1.5-2 liters of water per person, particularly in hot weather. A small river along the trail provides drinkable water, but avoid it on rainy days when it becomes murky or during summer, as it may be used for livestock.
No special permission is required to hike this trail, as it does not pass through protected nature reserves or border zones.
Our tour with Guided Azerbaijan was unforgettable, thanks to Fuad, our guide. He ensured the hike was enjoyable by pacing it perfectly and sharing interesting stories about Khinalig and Galakhudat. The transport service was excellent, with a modern and comfortable vehicle that made the journey hassle-free. Fuad's warm personality and professionalism stood out, and his tips on avoiding muddy areas during rainy days were incredibly helpful. I can't wait to explore more trails with this team! Maria Novak 15.06.2023
Walking from Khinalig to Galakhudat felt like stepping into another world. The quiet villages, stunning landscapes, and warm locals made this an authentic and heartwarming experience. I met several shepherds along the way, who were very friendly and offered water. The hike was easy to moderate, perfect for anyone looking to explore Azerbaijan's natural beauty without needing advanced trekking skills. Truly a memorable adventure. Ryan 24.11.2023
Thanks to Guided Azerbaijan and our excellent guide, Ali, our hike from Khinalig to Galakhudat was seamless. Ali's insights into the local lifestyle and the area's history added so much value to the journey. The company's transport vehicle was top-notch—spacious, air-conditioned, and very comfortable. Ali also helped us navigate through areas with shepherd dogs, ensuring we felt safe. This was one of the best hiking experiences I’ve ever had🤍 Aymane 12.05.2019
The hike between Khinalig and Galakhudat during late May was absolutely beautiful. The lush green meadows and the view of the cliffs near Galakhudat were breathtaking. I loved how quiet and untouched the trail felt, with no crowds to disturb the tranquility. Carrying extra water turned out to be a good tip, as I didn't come across any springs along the way. This is a must-visit for anyone seeking peace and natural beauty in Azerbaijan. Hiroshi Yamamoto 28.05.2023
Our guide, Elnara from Guided Azerbaijan, made this hike an unforgettable adventure. Her deep knowledge of the trail and local culture enriched our experience immensely. The transport vehicle was clean and spacious, which added to our comfort before and after the hike. Elnara also ensured we had enough water and checked on everyone’s well-being throughout the trip. I would highly recommend this trail and Elnara's guidance to anyone visiting Azerbaijan. M.a 16.05.2023
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