Are you interested in the top things to do in Nakhchivan? This fascinating region of Azerbaijan is full of hidden gems, from the ancient Alinja Castle and the stunning Batabat Lake to the historic Mausoleum of Momine Khatun and the healing Salt Caves. Despite being one of Azerbaijan’s lesser-known destinations, Nakhchivan offers a mix of history, nature, and culture that’s perfect for intrepid travelers. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know—where Nakhchivan is, how to get there, what to see and do, where to stay, and how long to visit for!
Nakhchivan – Things to Do
Nakhchivan – have you ever heard of it? Chances are, you haven’t. I’ve only discovered it quite recently – and yet, fell in love with it after! Before traveling there, I couldn’t find that much useful information online, so I’ve decided to share it here for any future travelers making their way to the Nakchivan Republic.
After all, Azerbaijan is not specifically one of travelers’ top visited countries either, even though it should be!
Nakchivan is often overlooked by travelers, who are not even aware of the existence of this part of Azerbaijan. It is accessible only by air, or by crossing through borders of the surrounding countries. However, those who venture here are in for a real treat. From ancient mausoleums to stunning mountain landscapes, Nakhchivan has it all.
In fact, with its tiled mausoleums, dry deserted areas, and the mountains, it reminded me of Central Asia and Uzbekistan.
Nakhchivan – what is it exactly?
Nakhchivan is an autonomous republic of Azerbaijan, separated from the other part of the country.
Iran borders it to the south and west, Armenia to the north and east, and Turkey to the west. Nakhchivan is one of the oldest and most historic regions in the country, with a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
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Where is Nakhchivan?
Nakhchivan is located in the southwestern part of Azerbaijan, but it’s separated from the rest of the country by Armenia. The region is landlocked and has a mountainous landscape, with the highest peak being Mount Kapudzhukh.
How to get to Nakhchivan?
Unfortunately, you cannot easily access Nakhchivan by land from the other part of Azerbaijan due to the conflict with Armenia. But there are other ways to get to Nakhchivan. The easiest and most common way is by air, as the Nakhchivan International Airport is well-connected to other major cities in the country.
Azerbaijan Airlines operates several local flights a day from Baku. They have a set price for a ticket, but that doesn’t change. At the beginning of 2023, I paid 70 AZN for a one-way ticket.
However, I recommend that you book tickets early, as the seats can get sold out since many locals take that journey. You can book it here.
There are also several international flights from nearby countries, including Iran and Turkey.
What to see and do in Nakhchivan? Top things to do in Nakchivan
Nakhchivan has a lot to offer, from historic sites to natural monuments and ancient landmarks. It’s also nice to see a different side of Azerbaijan and explore the rich history of the region. But my favorite place is, of course, the mountains (and an ancient fortress there!).
#1 Visit the Alinja castle.
Alinja castle is the place that I first saw when I read about Nakhchivan, and I knew I needed to visit it. It reminded me of Machu Picchu. In fact, many people call it the mini Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan. If you look at the photos of it below, you’ll know why. Would you agree? :)
This ancient fortress dates back to the 6th century and is located on top of a mountain overlooking the stunning mountainous and deserted landscape.
The castle lies on top of a mountain, 1,811m above sea level. To get there, you need to climb quite steep stairs, which takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on your stamina and the heat of the day. There are around 2000 steps to cover!
I recommend getting there early in the morning to have the site all to yourself. Or even better, come in winter, as we did – and you will be there entirely alone. Nothing beats standing on top of the mountain, looking at the ancient fortress below, staring at the mountains in the background, listening to the condors flying above, and watching the wildlife. Yes, we’ve seen a group of mountain goats and wolves hunting them!
Alinja castle was definitely a highlight of my Nakhchivan trip and I would certainly go there again.
To get there from Nakhchivan town, we rented a taxi from our hotel for a day. The driver was waiting for us at the bottom of the mountain. Alternatively, you can take this Alinja and Ashabi-Kahf tour, which covers two destinations in one.
#2 Check out Ashab-i Kehf Cave (Seven Sleepers’ Cave)
Ashab-i Kehf Cave is located between Alinja Castle and Nakhchivan City, so you can visit it on the same trip.
People believe that this cave is the location where the Seven Sleepers, a group of seven Christian youths, sought refuge from persecution.
#3 Check Out The Duzdag (Salt Mountain) Therapy Center
Duzdag Cave and the Therapy Center is a hospital created inside the salt caves. Entrance to the salt cave is free. However, you cannot take any backpacks with you, so leave them in the hotel or at the entrance of the caves.
You can walk along the main walking path up to the entrance to the hospital area, which is only accessible to patients. It’s pretty surreal to be inside, surrounded by 130 million tons of natural salt. Worth a visit!
To get there, take a taxi from Nakchivan City.
#4 Walk around the historic city of Nakhchivan
Nakhchivan is home to several ancient landmarks, including the mausoleum of Nizami, the Prophet Noah’s tomb, and the Momine Khatun Mausoleum.
Here are the top attractions of Nakhchivan city:
- Yezidabad Castle – The castle is not much more than a fortress on the hill, and a small museum in the middle (which was always closed when I was there), but it’s a perfect place to see the sunset from! The sun falls down onto Aras Dam Lake over Iran, and it’s magical.
- Noah’s Mausoleum is located just next to the fortress. This mausoleum is dedicated to the Prophet Noah and is believed to be the burial place of his son.
- The Palace of Nakhchivan Khans was built in the 18th century and is known for its impressive architecture and design. Sadly, the interiors were closed when I was there.
- Momine Khatun Mausoleum was built in the 12th century and is dedicated to Momine Khatun, the wife of the ruler of the Atabek dynasty.
- An open-air museum just outside the mausoleum shows the ancient stone artifacts that were discovered in Nakhchivan.
- Juma Mosque was originally built in the 12th Century.
- Local bazaar – a very small market, but it’s nice to see what a market is like in Nakhchivan
- Yusif ibn Kuseyir Mausoleum was built in the 12th century
- Nakhchivan State History Museum
- Muzeum Heydər Əliyev
#5 See Qarabaghlar Mausoleum
Qarabaghlar Mausoleum is located 40km north of Nakhchivan city, and it’s the most beautiful mausoleum in Nakhchivan. This unique tomb was built in the 12th century and is known for its intricate brickwork and beautiful carvings. It reminded me of Samarkand in Uzbekistan.
#6 Discover the ancient city of Julfa
The city is home to several historic landmarks, including the Julfa Cemetery and the Church of St. Stephanos.
#7 Take a trip to Shahbuz National Park
Shahbuz National Park, by the border with Armenia, is a place to relax in the mountains and lakes.
#8 See Noah’s Mountain Ilandagh
Ilandagh is a very recognizable mountain, with an elevation of 2,415 meters above sea level, which makes it visible from Nakhchivan City.
According to the legend, Noah’s Ark changed the shape of Ilandagh, cracking it in the middle. You can see Ilandagh from Alinja castle, and you will pass it on the way there from the city.
Where to stay in Nakhchivan?
Nakhchivan accommodation is not very extensive. There are no budget hotels, but the ones that are moderately priced are also very good.
One of the best hotels in Nakhchivan is Saat Meydani Nakhchivan, where I stayed and felt like I was in a palace (delicious breakfast included!).
My friends also recommended the Tebriz Hotel Nakhchivan.
How long to visit Nakhchivan?
Nakhchivan is relatively small, but it’s worth staying there a few days after you make the journey all the way there.
I recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Nakhchivan to fully experience all that the region has to offer.
Nakhchivan is a less-known destination, that is certainly worth a visit. From exploring ancient landmarks to discovering natural wonders, there’s something for everyone in this unique and off-the-beaten-path destination. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in Nakhchivan!
Published: 2023, Updated: 2025
Have you heard of Nakhchivan before? Would you like to visit? Let me know in the comments!
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