Baku – The City of Winds

Welcome to Baku, the vibrant capital city of Azerbaijan!  This one was a spontaneous decision, to explore the road less traveled. Until recently I hadn’t even heard of this lil gem. Thanks to Instagram Influencers, who led me to this exotic destination located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. A former member of the Soviet Union,  Azerbaijan has a European appeal and Asian culture. 

From the moment we stepped off the plane in Baku, it felt like we were walking the red carpet at a movie premiere. The Soviet Union had a love affair with Indian films for long. Raj Kapoor’s Awaara became the symbol of the Hindi-Russi dosti phase. The warmth and hospitality continued throughout our stay in Baku, with locals making us feel special by singing Hindi songs from the 70’s…. ‘Aawara hun main’.  in every corner of the street. In a world where we are called “diversity”, the Azari’s were romanticizing brown skin and celebrating the beauty of life with such genuine enthusiasm and making us feel like the stars of our own adventure in Baku.

“The dosti is only going to get deeper”.

Baku has an impressive and modern skyline with a fusion of wealth and history. From the legacy of its oil billionaires to the grandeur of the iconic monuments, the city offers a glimpse into its rich history and opulence of wealth.

We stayed at a boutique hotel – Promenade located in the Old Town and right across the seaside boulevard and the park that stretches along the bay on the Caspian Sea.

Any new city I go to, I always start with a Walking Tour. Had booked a “Night Baku Tour” with Guru Walk. Walking tours offer a delightful way to discover a destination, combining some workouts, exploration, and a chance to engage with locals. The host is usually my first friend in the new country and a trustworthy source to uncover the hidden treasures that make each place unique. We strolled through the old town, admiring the historical buildings from the 19th century, absorbing the vibe and illumination of every tree and stone.  We reached the Funicular Railway just in time for the last tram and it saved us from climbing 2000 steps – Azerbaijan’s only funicular railway takes you from the city center up to Martyrs Lane – Flame Towers for great views of the city.

You will see the dancing lights of the Flame Towers, a trio of iconic skyscrapers that have become an emblem of the city’s modern skyline. Their unique design mimics the shape of flames, paying homage to Azerbaijan’s historical association with oil and fire.

The facades of the Flame Towers are adorned with an intricate LED lighting system, allowing them to illuminate the Baku skyline with vibrant colors and patterns. The towers create a mesmerizing display at night, showcasing a visual spectacle.

Flame Towers and the city bay panorama will make your tour exquisite and memorable. After the funicular and seeing Martyrs Lane, we walked around the boulevard to enjoy the “city of winds” by the Caspian sea.  We treated ourselves to a well-earned dinner and it was an indulgence. Some succulent kebabs, and delectable dolma and the world’s best kunafa !. Needless to say, it was a bit more than we bargained for, but well worth every bit-e !

Next morning on our agenda was to get a feel of Baku’s cultural heritage. We began our journey by delving into Baku’s architectural wonders. Baku’s UNESCO-listed Old City, known as Icherisheher was hardly 200 mts from our hotel. The maze-like streets to Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs’ Palace kept us immersed in the city’s past. Maiden Tower “the most majestic and mysterious monument of Baku, Our tour guide narrated the legends related to Maiden Tower. 

Mornings are warm and sunny, and we immersed ourselves in the city’s vibrant culture. Exploring the exhibits showcasing Azerbaijani art, we wandered through bustling markets and artisan shops. Here, you can find traditional carpets, exquisite handicrafts, and unique souvenirs to cherish as reminders of your time in Baku. 

The official language of Azerbaijan is Azeri. It is a Turkic language and shares similarities with Turkish and other Turkic languages. Azerbaijani culture is renowned for its rich tradition of arts and crafts. Carpet weaving, in particular, holds a special place in the culture and history of the country. Azerbaijani carpets are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and exquisite craftsmanship.

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We tried some popular Azerbaijani dishes including pilaf, kebabs, and plov. Tea is a beloved beverage and sweets like baklava and shekerbura are enjoyed for dessert.

Post lunch we went on a stroll through the Sabir Garden and it was a breathtaking oasis of nature within the bustling city. As you step into the garden, you are captivated by greenery with perfectly manicured landscapes that create a picturesque setting that transports you to a world of tranquility and charm. Some afternoons are meant to be this way, as you sit on one of the inviting benches, you can admire the delicate dance of butterflies and listen to the soothing melodies of life.

Next on the list was shopping, and I had read so much about the fashionista’s paradise -Nizami Street; named after the classical Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi. This street is home to various outlets, from banks to fashion stores, and is the best place for people-watching. The architecture of the street reflects a synthesis of various styles which is because of their construction in the late 19th-early 20th century. Almost all of these were built by oil billionaires as their residences. These palatial estates boast stunning architecture and its grandeur is a reflection of the wealth they had amassed.

The pedestrian street starts at Fountains Square – Torgovaya Street(“the merchant street” in Russian). This spectacular area has lovely cafe’s, branded stores, restaurants, and illuminated fountains. Azerbaijan is a fairly progressive country, so you will see locals wearing short skirts and sleeveless tops, and fashion on point. We settled into a cozy spot at a café absorbing the visual feast of high-street fashion. It’s fascinating to see how people interpret trends, mix and match different pieces, and create their own distinctive ensembles. Each passerby tells a story through their fashion choices, whether it’s a carefully curated outfit or a more spontaneous expression of individuality. It’s a reminder that fashion is not solely about clothing; it’s also a means of self-expression and cultural identity.

A day trip to the countryside

As the urban landscape gradually fades away into rolling hills, listening to Turkish beats, we arrive at the Heydar Mosque (Bibi-Heybat Mosque). Situated on the outskirts of Baku, overlooking the Caspian Sea, the mosque holds great importance to Azerbaijanis, as it is the historical shrine of Bibi-Heybat, the tomb of Ukeyma Khanum, a descendant of Prophet Muhammad.

Originally built in the 13th century, the Bibi-Heybat Mosque was completely destroyed in the 1930s during the Soviet era. However, following Azerbaijan’s independence, it was reconstructed in 1994, and today it stands as a symbol of faith and resilience.

The architecture of the Heydar Mosque is a blend of traditional Islamic elements and modern design. Its turquoise dome, intricate minarets, and elegant interior reflect the rich cultural heritage of Azerbaijan. The mosque is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Inside the mosque, visitors are greeted with a grand prayer hall adorned with exquisite chandeliers and ornate calligraphy. The intricate geometric patterns and the soft glow of natural light create a tranquil ambiance for worshipers.

Visitors to the Heydar Mosque are welcomed with warmth and respect, regardless of their faith, and is a testament to the religious diversity and cultural significance of Azerbaijan.

Qoubudstan

Next on our list is Gobustan, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gobustan National Park, where ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs adorn the landscape. These incredible artworks provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of our ancestors. The petroglyphs, intricately carved into the stone surfaces, depict scenes of hunting, rituals, and daily life, providing a window into the past and a connection to the region’s ancient civilizations.T hese rocky canvases reveal an incredible story etched by our ancestor’s thousands of years ago.

Mud Volcanoes

They erupt with bursts of mud, gas, and sometimes even fire. Unlike traditional volcanoes that spew molten lava, mud volcanoes are formed by the eruption of mineral-rich mud and gases from deep underground. The sight of these mini volcanoes bubbling and oozing with thick, viscous mud is truly captivating and scary. To witness the raw power of nature and appreciate the dynamic forces shaping the Earth’s crust known for its mineral-rich composition, has been used for centuries as a natural skincare remedy.

Applying the mud from the volcano as a face pack is believed to cleanse and purify the skin, drawing out impurities and toxins while providing nourishment and hydration. We also filled up our bottles with mud oozing out of the volcano. Yaay !!! I discovered the ultimate beauty treatment of the Persian Queens !!!

Revving up for Formula 1 Week

Our visit coincided with Formula 1 week, and we were getting ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience! Witness the heart-pounding action of the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit. The Baku City Circuit is known for its challenging layout, featuring long straights, tight corners, and narrow sections that demand precision and bravery from the drivers. The combination of high-speed sections and technical turns creates a thrilling spectacle, where split-second decisions and skillful maneuvers can make all the difference. As the race cars zoom through the city’s streets, feel the exhilaration and join the cheering crowds. Immerse yourself in the thrilling atmosphere of this world-class sporting event.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply seeking a more authentic travel experience, the scents of Azerbaijan will excite you. You could capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories… it’s economical and exciting. Indians are the number one tourists post-pandemic. Do not miss out on this beauty …Pack your bags soon.