Ganja Travel Essentials

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"The young spirit of Azerbaijan"

Ganja Tourism

Ganja, situated in the western part of Azerbaijan, is a city steeped in history and culture, offering tourists a rich tapestry of experiences to explore. As the country's second-largest city, Ganja boasts a long and storied past dating back over 2,500 years, with influences from various civilizations including Persian, Russian, and Ottoman. Established in the 16th century, Ganja still preserves its ancient charm today. Situated on the banks of the Kur River in the Caucasus region, covering approximately 39 square kilometers, Ganja is best explored on foot.

One of the highlights of Ganja is its impressive architectural heritage, which reflects its rich history and cultural diversity. The city is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Nizami Mausoleum, dedicated to the renowned Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi, and the Bottle House, a unique structure constructed entirely from glass bottles. The Heydar Aliyev Park in Ganja is perfect for outdoor activities and also features an amusement park with multiple rides.

Ganja is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with a wealth of museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions to explore. For those interested in architectural marvels, Javad Khan Street showcases the beautifully preserved 18th-century Russian Revival Architecture, a reflection of the city's architectural diversity.

Ganja's modern side also offers captivating attractions. The European-style Ganja State Philharmonic Hall is a visual treat for architecture enthusiasts, and Heydar Aliyev Square, along with the City Hall, provides an opportunity to experience the city's vibrant presence against the backdrop of a stunning sunset. Ganja offers a diverse array of attractions and experiences that are sure to captivate tourists seeking to discover the beauty and charm of Azerbaijan's western region.

Things to do in Ganja

1. Heydar Aliyev Park

Heydar Aliyev Park
The Heydar Aliyev Park Complex is the largest urban park in Ganja. This expansive complex boasts a myriad of attractions, including fountains, an amphitheater, a museum of modern art, and an arti (Read More)ficial lake. You can stroll amidst thousands of trees, admire decorative garden plots, and marvel at the architectural marvels like the Triumphal arch and Heydar Aliyev Center.

2. Ganja State Philharmonic Hall

Ganja State Philharmonic Hall
Founded in April 1919 under the guidance of renowned Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibeyov, the Ganja State Philharmonic Hall has stood as a beacon of musical excellence for over a century. Initially (Read More)established to enrich the cultural landscape of Ganja, it has evolved over the years under the leadership of eminent figures like Fikret Amirov and Mahammad Burjaliyev. Today, it continues to uphold its legacy of artistic brilliance, captivating audiences with symphonic performances and cultural events.

3. Alexander Nevsky Church

Alexander Nevsky Church
Built in 1887 on the grounds of an ancient cemetery, Alexander Nevsky Church stands as one of Azerbaijan's oldest Orthodox churches. Initially serving both Orthodox Christians and Muslims, this Byzant (Read More)ine-style brick structure became a museum in 1935 before returning to the Russian Orthodox Church in 1946. It preserves its ancient interior adorned with sacred icons, paying homage to Saint Alexander Nevsky and Saint Mary Magdalene.

4.  Bottle House

 Bottle House
Explore the unique Bottle House, created in 1967 by Ibrahim Jafarov to honor his brother and World War II soldiers. The house is constructed using 48,000 bottles instead of traditional building materi (Read More)als. It's a private house, but visitors are welcome to take exterior photos and learn about its fascinating history.

5. Juma Mosque

Juma Mosque
The Juma Mosque of Ganja, also known as the Shah Abbas Mosque was constructed in 1606 under the direction of Sheykh Baheddin Mohammad Amili, it later became associated with Shah Abbas the Great. (Read More)With its distinctive red brick facade and two towering minarets added in 1776, the mosque has long been a focal point of worship and learning.

6. Chokek Hamam

Chokek Hamam
Chokak Hamam, constructed in Ganja in 1606, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of its time. It features a striking blend of clay, lime, and red bricks. Its grand structure compris (Read More)es a large dome and two smaller ones, showcasing intricate decorative elements. The hamam now serves as a cultural center and as a bathhouse for a local hotel, blending historical charm with modern amenities.

7. Nizami Mausoleum

Nizami Mausoleum
The mausoleum complex of the renowned Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi holds the poet's crypt and is adorned with fantastic creatures symbolizing his iconic ‘Khamsa’. Adjacent to the mausol (Read More)eum, the Nizami Ganjavi Museum houses a wealth of literary treasures, including rare manuscripts and miniatures from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum and enjoy panoramic views of Ganja from the adjacent square.

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Daily Budget for Ganja

When planning your daily budget for Ganja, you can expect to spend approximately $30 to $50 per day on basic expenses. This budget would cover accommodation in budget hotels or hostels, meals at local restaurants or street vendors, transportation within the city, and admission fees to attractions. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on your spending habits and preferences.

History of Ganja

Ganja's history is a tapestry woven with threads of diverse cultural influences, reflecting periods of Arab, Mongol, Persian, Ottoman, and Russian rule. As part of various empires and regimes, including the USSR, Ganja experienced shifts in power and identity. It briefly served as Azerbaijan's capital in 1918, amidst political upheaval. Formerly known as Elizavetspol and Kirovabad, Ganja is famed as the birthplace of Nizami, a revered 12th-century poet, whose mausoleum stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.

Food in Ganja

Ganja has a culinary space that blends ancient traditions with modern flavors. One of its standout dishes is pakhlava, a lighter version of the traditional dessert baked to perfection over a campfire, offering a delicate texture and aromatic taste infused with roses and saffron. Other must-try specialties include Ganja dovga, a refreshing yogurt-based soup with herbs and vegetables, savory keta qutabs filled with meat or herbs and white cheese, and the indulgent shah pilaf, a rice dish packed with meat, dried fruit, and onions.

Shopping in Ganja

Shopping in Ganja is a vibrant experience filled with traditional markets and modern stores. You can explore bustling local bazaars where you will find everything from local handicrafts and textiles to fresh produce and spices. For those seeking modern retail therapy, the Ganja Mall offers a range of shops and boutiques selling clothing, electronics, and souvenirs.

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How to Reach Ganja

How to Reach Overview

Ganja, a prominent city in Azerbaijan, is accessible through various transportation modes. If arriving internationally, Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku serves as the primary gateway. From Baku, travelers can reach Ganja by several means. The most common option is a domestic flight from Heydar Aliyev Airport to Ganja International Airport, which offers regular flights connecting the two cities.

Alternatively, there are train services available from Baku to Ganja, offering a scenic journey through the Azerbaijani landscape. Buses and shared taxis also operate between the cities, providing a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking an overland route to Ganja from Baku. The travel duration varies based on the chosen mode of transportation, with flights taking around an hour, while trains and road travel can range from 4 to 6 hours, providing diverse choices to reach this historic city.

How to reach Ganja by flight

  • International Flights: If you are coming from outside Azerbaijan, you would typically land at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku, the capital city.
  • Domestic Flights: From Baku, you can take a domestic flight to Ganja International Airport (KVD). Several airlines operate this route, and it's the fastest way to reach Ganja from Baku. The flight takes approximately 1 hour.

How to reach Ganja by road

The distance from Baku to Ganja by road is approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles), and the journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.  A taxi from/to Naftalan can be had for 25 manat. Or just use a ride sharing app. The city is served by the M2, R19, R20, R21, R50 and R51 highways.

How to reach Ganja by train

Ganja Railway Station is located 4 km north of the city center and can be reached by buses. This station provides national and international rail connections to the city. Ganja sits on one of the Azerbaijani primary rail lines running east–west through the country. This line now forms part of the Kars–Tbilisi–Baku railway, which directly connects Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan. This railway connects Ganja with Baku as well as with Tbilisi in Georgia, from where passenger trains may in the future eventually connect to Akhalkalaki, and Kars in Turkey.

How to reach Ganja by bus

Buses and minibuses (known as marshrutkas) operate between Baku and Ganja regularly. You can find bus terminals in Baku (e.g., Avtovagzal) where you can purchase tickets for Ganja-bound buses. From/to Sheki is 50 manat or less, depending on your bargaining skills.

Most frequently searched routes to Ganja

Route Name Distance Time
Baku to Ganja 360 km 4 - 5 hours

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Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum in Ganja
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