Ilisu to Khinaliq

Ilisu to Khinaliq: A Guide to Travel between Two Azerbaijani Gems

Language

The official language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani. However, Russian is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas. English is not as common, but it is becoming more popular, especially among younger people.

Currency

The official currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN). It is recommended to exchange your currency before arriving in Azerbaijan, as the exchange rates at the airport are not always favorable.

Distance

The distance between Ilisu and Khinaliq is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles). The journey takes about 4 hours by car.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Khinaliq from Ilisu.

• By car: This is the most convenient way to travel between Ilisu and Khinaliq. You can either rent a car or hire a taxi.
• By bus: There is a regular bus service between Ilisu and Khinaliq. The buses depart from the Ilisu bus station and take about 4 hours to reach Khinaliq.
• By shared taxi: This is a good option if you are on a budget. Shared taxis depart from the Ilisu bus station and cost around 10 AZN per person.

Expenses

The cost of travel between Ilisu and Khinaliq will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Here is a rough estimate of the expenses:

• By car: The cost of renting a car for a day is around 50 AZN. The cost of petrol is around 1 AZN per liter.
• By bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Ilisu to Khinaliq is around 5 AZN.
• By shared taxi: The cost of a shared taxi from Ilisu to Khinaliq is around 10 AZN per person.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Khinaliq is during the summer months (June to September). The weather is warm and sunny during this time, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the surrounding mountains.

What to Eat

Khinaliq is known for its traditional Azerbaijani cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Khinkali: These are dumplings filled with meat, potatoes, and onions.
• Kutabs: These are thin pancakes filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
• Piti: This is a stew made with lamb, chickpeas, and vegetables.

Where to Go

There are several places to visit in Khinaliq, including:

• The Khinaliq Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the history and culture of Khinaliq.
• The Juma Mosque: This is the oldest mosque in Khinaliq, dating back to the 12th century.
• The Khinaliq Waterfall: This is a beautiful waterfall located just outside the village.

FAQs

• Is it safe to travel to Khinaliq? Yes, Khinaliq is a safe place to visit. The crime rate is very low, and the locals are friendly and welcoming.
• Do I need a visa to visit Azerbaijan? Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Azerbaijan for up to 30 days. However, it is always best to check with your local embassy or consulate to be sure.
• What is the best way to get around Khinaliq? The best way to get around Khinaliq is on foot. The village is small and easy to explore on foot, and the scenery is beautiful.