Gabala Tourism (2023) - Azerbaijan > Top Places, Travel Guide

Gabala Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Best Time: June - September Read More

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"Ancient Capital of Caucasian Albania"

Gabala Tourism

Gabala, also spelled as Qabala or Qəbələ, is a picturesque city located in the Qabala Rayon district of Azerbaijan. It is situated in the northwestern part of the country, approximately 225 kilometers away and roughly a 3-hour drive from the capital city, Baku. Gabala is tucked in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscapes and lush forests.

The most popular attraction in Gabala is its cable car ride at Tufandag Mountain Resort which takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and offers panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains from a height. One can also enjoy paragliding and jeep safaris through the stunning Caucasus Mountains, with breaks for authentic Azerbaijani meals in charming rural villages. The city is home to several ancient historical sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of Gabala.

The Nohur Lake is a great spot for water sports, fishing, and hiking, and the Tufandag Ski Resort offers a great way to enjoy the winter months with skiing, snowmobiling, and other winter activities. The Gabala Observatory is also a great place to explore the wonders of the night sky.

Gabala hosts an annual international music festival, attracting musicians and artists from around the world. It's a cultural highlight for those interested in classical music. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the mountains and lakes, Gabala has something to offer every type of traveler.

Tufandag Mountain Resort

Nohur Lake

Yeddi Gozel Waterfall

Gabaland Entertainment Center

Gabala Cable Car

Gabala Shooting Club

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Top Hotels In Gabala

Luxury Milan Gabala hot pool, mountain view, cable car

9.6 (30 reviews)

$ 153 onwards

Nohur Hotel Gabala

9.2 (261 reviews)

$ 78 onwards

Emerald House Gabala

9.1 (51 reviews)

$ 58 onwards

Qafqaz Riverside Hotel

9.0 (2256 reviews)

$ 126 onwards

Qafqaz Falcon Chalet

9.9 (39 reviews)

$ 235 onwards

Qafqaz Tufandag Mountain Resort Hotel

8.9 (2526 reviews)

$ 155 onwards

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More on Gabala Travel

Daily Budget for Gabala

In Gabala, visitors can expect to spend approximately $50 to $100 per day, covering accommodation, dining, transportation, shopping, and popular activities such as cable car ride and boating in Nohur Lake.

Picnic in Gabala

Gabala offers the perfect setting for a delightful picnic experience. Popular picnic spots in Gabala include the tranquil shores of Nohur Lake, where visitors can spread out their blankets and enjoy a leisurely meal while admiring the scenic surroundings. Park areas in Gabaland offers idyllic picnic areas amidst towering trees and manicured lawns, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Tufandag Mountain Resort also provides breathtaking views and picnic spots amidst the verdant slopes.

History of Gabala

The city of Gabala is more than 2000 years old. It was the capital of the ancient state of Caucasian Albania. The region's strategic location along ancient trade routes contributed to its significance in various historical periods. Once a prominent city in Caucasian Albania, Gabala served as a thriving hub for commerce, arts, and religious diversity. Over the centuries, it witnessed the rise and fall of empires, including Persian, Arab, and Russian influences. Today, remnants of its storied past, such as archaeological sites and historical landmarks, offer glimpses into Gabala's fascinating history and heritage.

Exchanging Money in Gabala

Most tourists visiting Gabala get their money exchanged to Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) in Baku where you can find multiple banks and exchange centers. However, you can also find banks in Gabala to exchange money. Alternatively, some hotels may offer currency exchange services for guests' convenience, although rates may vary.

Festivals in Gabala

Gabala comes alive with vibrant festivities and cultural celebrations throughout the year, offering visitors an immersive experience into the region's traditions and heritage. One of the most anticipated events is the Gabala International Music Festival, a prestigious gathering of renowned musicians and orchestras from around the world. Another popular festival in the region is the Lavender Festival which is organised in May-June every year. It is inspired by similar festivals in France, the USA, Türkiye, Italy and Bulgaria.

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How to Reach Gabala

How to Reach Overview

To reach Baku, the primary international gateway is Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), offering convenient access from around the world. This airport is located 25 km from the city center. Major airlines like Azerbaijan Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and British Airways have regular connections to Baku. Additionally, Baku is well-connected to nearby countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Moscow through rail connections. The centrally located Baku City Circuit is easily accessible from most parts of the city, making Baku an accessible destination for travelers from various starting points.

You can opt for the most budget-friendly transportation option from the airport to the city center, which is the Aero Express Line. This service operates throughout the day, with departures every half-hour or hourly, depending on the time. The fare for a ticket is 1.50 AZN, and the bus conveniently transports you to the 28 May Metro Station, providing you with easy access to your onward journey.

How to reach Gabala by flight

The most common way to reach Gabala is by air. You can book a flight to Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku, which is the main international gateway to Azerbaijan. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Gabala International Airport (GBB). The flight from Baku to Gabala takes approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive at Gabala International Airport, you can take a taxi or use other local transportation options to reach the city center.

How to reach Gabala by road

You can drive to Gabala from Baku if you prefer a road trip. The distance between Baku and Gabala is approximately 225 kilometers, and the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours by car. You can take the Baku-Gabala Highway, which offers a scenic route through the Azerbaijani countryside. You can hire a private taxi or use a shared taxi service for the road trip.