Qazakh

Qazakh (also spelled Qazax) is a city in western Azerbaijan near the Georgian border, in the Ganja Region. It is the administrative centre of Qazax District and lies on the flat lowlands between the Lesser Caucasus and the Kura River valley. The city has a long history as a trade and cultural crossroads, and the surrounding district is known for its natural springs, lakes, and agricultural produce.

Summers are hot (25–35°C), winters mild (0–8°C). Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons.

By Plane

Ganja International Airport (GNJ) is about 50 km east. A taxi costs 30–40 AZN.

By Train

Qazakh railway station is on the Baku–Tbilisi line, with trains connecting to Ganja (1 hr) and Baku (5 hr).

By Car / Road

From Baku, drive 450 km west via the M2 highway (5.5 hr). From Ganja, it is 50 km west (40 min). Marshrutkas run from Ganja's bus station (2 AZN, 1 hr).

Qazakh town is compact and walkable. For outlying sites, a taxi is needed. Local taxis cost 3–5 AZN within town.

• Mountain Goyazan — A striking mountain with panoramic views of the region. Climb it with a local guide for safety.

• Didevan Lake — A reservoir on the Armenian border, safe for walking around. A restaurant overlooks the lake, and springs below the hill offer cold water.

• Ashagi Salahli hot spring — A natural thermal spring with a built hamam (bathhouse). Locals believe the water is beneficial for skin diseases.

• Abbasbeyli Lake — A border lake good for fishing (not recommended for swimming). Less safe in the evenings.

• Climbing Mountain Goyazan — The mountain offers a challenging but rewarding climb. Hire a local guide.

• Hot spring bathing — Visit the thermal spring at Ashagi Salahli (built hamam) for a natural hot bath.

• Fishing — Abbasbeyli Lake and the local reservoirs offer fishing opportunities.

• Didevan Lake restaurant — A lakeside restaurant serving Azerbaijani cuisine with views over the reservoir.
• Qazakh Aşxana — A simple eatery near the bus station serving plov, kebabs, and soups. Mains 4–8 AZN.

The natural springs around Qazakh produce excellent cold water. Azerbaijani tea is served everywhere.

• Budget: Guesthouse near the town centre. 20–30 AZN per night.
• Mid-range: Qazakh Hotel — A modest hotel with basic amenities. 40–60 AZN per night.

Local produce: fruits (grapes, melons), honey, and walnuts. The town bazaar sells basic goods.

• Ashagi Salahli (8 km south, 15 min) — Village with hot springs and a historic bathhouse.
• Dash Salahli (10 km west) — Border village with scenic views.
• Ganja (50 km east, 40 min) — Azerbaijan's second city, with the Imamzadeh complex and Nizami Mausoleum.
• Baku (450 km east, 5.5 hr) — Capital city.