Kalbajar

Kalbajar is a town and the administrative centre of the Kəlbəcər District in western Azerbaijan. Located in the Lesser Caucasus mountains at an elevation of about 1,500 m, it is known for its mountainous landscape, dense forests, and natural hot springs. The area was under Armenian control from 1993 until 2020, when it was returned to Azerbaijan. The town is being rebuilt and resettled. The district is home to the Istisu hot springs, a renowned health resort with mineral-rich thermal waters that have drawn visitors since the Soviet era.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Ganja International Airport (KVD IATA), about 150 km north.

By Car / Road

Kalbajar is accessible by road from Ganja via the M2 and regional roads. The mountain road passes through scenic terrain. The journey from Ganja takes roughly 2.5–3 hours. Marshrutkas may operate from Ganja depending on the reconstruction phase.

The town is compact. A vehicle is needed for exploring the district's natural attractions.

• Istisu Hot Springs — the main attraction of the region, located about 15 km from Kalbajar. The mineral hot springs have therapeutic properties and were once a popular Soviet-era spa destination.

• Mountain landscapes — the Lesser Caucasus scenery with forested slopes and river valleys.

• Bathing in the Istisu hot springs.

• Hiking and nature walks in the surrounding mountains.

• Photography of the dramatic mountain scenery.

Small local eateries serve Azerbaijani cuisine. The area is known for its mountain honey and herbs.

The mineral water from Istisu springs is the region's signature product. Tea is widely available.

• Istisu (15 km) — hot spring resort with mineral baths.
• Ganja (150 km north) — Azerbaijan's second-largest city.
• Göygöl National Park — alpine lake and hiking.
• Gədəbəy — historic mining town in the mountains.