Day 1: Arrival & Sheki Introduction

Afternoon — Arrive in Sheki by bus or train from Baku and check into a beautifully restored historic caravanserai hotel in the Old Town. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming cobblestone streets lined with 18th and 19th-century merchant houses, many of which still feature original wooden balconies and intricate carvings that tell stories of the Silk Road era.

Evening — Visit the rose garden of the Sheki Khan’s Palace and enjoy a welcome dinner with live mugham folk music, traditional Azerbaijani dishes (try plov with saffron and tender lamb, dolma, and fresh herbs), and the enchanting atmosphere of the illuminated caravanserai courtyard under the stars. The palace’s colorful shebeke windows glow beautifully at night.

Day 2: Crafts Immersion

Morning — Participate in a full-day hands-on workshop learning shebeke stained-glass making and traditional kelaghayi silk scarf dyeing using natural pomegranate, walnut, and saffron dyes (25 AZN). Local master artisans will guide you through the centuries-old techniques, explaining the history and symbolism behind each pattern and color.

Afternoon — Explore the vibrant Sheki Bazaar, bargaining for handmade walnut carvings, copper samovars, antique kelaghayi scarves, spices, dried fruits, and other unique souvenirs. Chat with local vendors and sample fresh honey, nuts, and regional sweets.

Evening — Relax with fresh Sheki halva tasting and aromatic herbal teas in traditional teahouses while watching the town come alive at dusk. Many teahouses offer nargile (water pipe) with apple or rose flavors.

Day 3: Kish Village & Albanian Heritage

Full Day — Take a guided excursion to Kish Village to explore the ancient Albanian Church, one of the oldest Christian sites in the Caucasus with archaeological layers dating back to the 1st–5th centuries. The church sits in a serene forested setting and includes a small museum with artifacts from multiple civilizations.

Continue to the dramatic Gelersen-Görersen Fortress ruins perched on a cliff with sweeping panoramic views over Sheki and the mountains. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch with river views, local specialties (fresh cheese, lavash, and grilled meats), and stories from your guide about the region’s rich history.

Day 4: Ilisu Village Homestay

Morning — Jeep transfer to the beautiful highland village of Ilisu. Hike through lush forests to waterfalls and explore historic Ottoman-era mosques and impressive suspension bridges over rushing rivers. The mountain scenery here is dramatic and changes with every season.

Afternoon & Evening — Stay overnight with a local family (~45 AZN including meals). Participate in daily village life, learn traditional Lezgin dances, cook khinkal dumplings together, and hear personal stories from your hosts about life in the Caucasus mountains. Enjoy homemade bread baked in a tonir oven and fresh dairy products.

Day 5: Return via Lake Goygol & Thermal Springs

Morning — Early dawn hike for a chance to spot ibex, eagles, and other wildlife while enjoying misty mountain views. On the return journey, stop at the stunning **Lake Goygol** (Blue Lake) — a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by dense forests with a fascinating history (formed by a massive earthquake in 1139). Walk around the lake, take reflection photos, and breathe in the pure mountain air.

Evening — Relax in natural thermal mineral springs near Sheki before returning to your hotel in town. The warm waters are said to have healing properties and are perfect after days of hiking.

Day 6: Forests & Bio-Farms

Full Day — Explore the Marhal Resort area or nearby biosphere reserve with guided hiking or horseback riding through ancient beech and chestnut forests. Visit organic farms where you can pick fresh chestnuts, apples, walnuts, and berries, and learn the traditional process of making authentic Sheki halva from local families. You’ll also see how silk production and beekeeping are still practiced sustainably.

Evening — Enjoy a special farewell feast featuring foraged mushrooms, wild herbs, regional wines, grilled trout, and mountain honey desserts under the stars. Local musicians may join for an unforgettable evening.

Day 7: Free Morning & Departure

Morning — Use your final hours for last-minute shopping of premium silk scarves, copper items, or join a short local cooking class if available. Revisit any favorite spots from earlier in the week — perhaps one last walk around the Khan’s Palace or a quiet moment in the caravanserai courtyard.

Afternoon — Enjoy a relaxing rooftop lunch with panoramic mountain views before your departure to Baku or Ganja Airport. Take in the final sweeping views of the Caucasus that you’ll remember forever.

Budget Summary & Best Time to Visit

Total estimated cost: 550–750 AZN per person (excluding return transport from Baku). This covers comfortable accommodation (including homestay), workshops, jeep transfers, all meals, and attraction entries. Prices are very reasonable compared to similar experiences elsewhere.

Best months: April–June (blossoms and mild weather) and September–October (golden autumn colors and harvest season). Pack sturdy hiking shoes, layers for cooler mountain evenings, rain jacket, and a good camera or phone for capturing the stunning landscapes.

Getting there: Frequent buses and trains from Baku (4–5 hours). Domestic flights to Ganja are also convenient.