Azerbaijan’s tourism industry continues to thrive beyond the capital, with the scenic cities of Gabala and Sheki emerging as the country’s most popular destinations for international visitors after Baku.

Tural Musayev, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Tourist Guides Association (ATGA), said that the two regions consistently attract the highest number of tourists thanks to their combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and well-developed tourism infrastructure, The Caspian Post reports via TASS.

“Most tourists, after visiting Baku, travel to Gabala and Sheki,” Musayev said.

Located about 210 kilometers northwest of Baku, Gabala has become one of Azerbaijan’s premier leisure destinations. The city boasts an international airport, convenient rail connections from the capital, and a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.

Visitors are drawn to Gabala’s mountain scenery, historical landmarks, and outdoor attractions. Popular sites include the Tufandag Mountain Resort, known for its ski slopes and cable cars, the picturesque Seven Beauties Waterfall, and the village of Vandam. During late spring and early summer, colorful lavender fields attract photographers and nature lovers from across the region.

Gabala is also a favorite destination for families, thanks to Gabaland, Azerbaijan’s largest amusement park.

Meanwhile, Sheki offers travelers a journey through history. Once an important stop along the ancient Silk Road, the city is renowned for its preserved caravanserais, traditional artisan workshops, mosques, and churches.

The historic center of Sheki, including the magnificent 18th-century Sheki Khan’s Palace, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Food enthusiasts are also drawn to the city’s famous Sheki pakhlava and the traditional lamb stew known as piti.

Festivals further enhance the appeal of both destinations. Gabala hosts an internationally renowned summer music festival and the popular Jam Festival, while Sheki welcomes performers from around the world during its annual Silk Road International Music Festival.

Looking ahead, Musayev believes Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic could emerge as one of the country’s next major tourism destinations.

He also highlighted the mountain village of Khinalig, one of the highest settlements in the Caucasus, where residents have preserved their unique language, customs, and centuries-old traditions. The village is home to numerous historical monuments and ancient burial sites.

Another hidden gem is Ivanovka in the Ismayilli district, known for its unique communal farming heritage and warm hospitality. Visitors can experience traditional music, folk dances, local cuisine, and authentic village life.

As Azerbaijan expands its tourism offerings, destinations such as Gabala, Sheki, Nakhchivan, Khinalig, and Ivanovka are increasingly showcasing the country’s rich cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and growing appeal as a year-round travel destination.