Istisu

Istisu is a spa town in the Kəlbəcər District of western Azerbaijan, famous for its natural hot mineral springs. The name "Istisu" means "Hot Water" in Azerbaijani. During the Soviet era, it was a popular health resort with sanatoriums attracting visitors from across the USSR for the therapeutic properties of its mineral-rich thermal waters, which are high in sulphur and other minerals. The area was affected by the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and is now undergoing reconstruction.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Ganja International Airport (KVD IATA), about 160 km north.

By Car / Road

Istisu is accessible by road from Kalbajar (about 15 km) and Ganja (about 160 km). The mountain road may be rough; a 4×4 is recommended.

Walkable as a small settlement.

• Hot mineral springs — the naturally heated therapeutic waters.

• Soviet-era sanatorium buildings — historic resort architecture.

• Mountain scenery of the Lesser Caucasus.

• Soaking in the hot spring baths.

• Hiking in the surrounding mountains.

The mineral water from the springs is the main attraction — rich in minerals and believed to have health benefits.

• Kalbajar (15 km) — district centre.
• Ganja (160 km north) — major city.
• Göygöl National Park — alpine lake.