Before You Go: Visas, Flights, and Currency
Getting to Baku is straightforward for Indian passport holders. You'll need to apply for an ASAN e-Visa online before your trip. The process is simple: fill out the form on the official portal (evisa.gov.az), upload a copy of your passport, and pay the fee,
which is typically around $25-$30 USD. The visa is usually processed within three working days and allows a single-entry stay of up to 30 days. Flights from major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai to Baku's Heydar Aliyev International Airport are frequent, with return tickets costing between ₹22,000 and ₹40,000, depending on how far in advance you book. The local currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). As of late 2026, 1 AZN is roughly equal to ₹56. It's wise to exchange a small amount of cash at the airport and the rest at currency exchange offices in the city for better rates.
Day 1: Arrival and Old City Exploration
Upon arrival, take an affordable airport express bus or a Bolt (a popular ride-hailing app) to your accommodation. After settling in, dive straight into the heart of Baku: the Icherisheher, or Old City. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a maze of cobblestone streets, ancient mosques, and historic buildings. Key sights like the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs are must-visits. Exploring the Old City itself is free, making it a perfect first-day activity. For dinner, find a local eatery just outside the main tourist area for some authentic and budget-friendly Azerbaijani food. A simple meal can cost between 8-15 AZN.
Day 2: Modern Marvels and a Seaside Stroll
Dedicate today to Baku’s futuristic side. Start with the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid. While there's an entrance fee of about 15 AZN to go inside the exhibitions, admiring the building's fluid design from the outside is free and equally impressive. In the afternoon, head to the Baku Boulevard, a long promenade along the Caspian Sea. Take a leisurely walk, see the iconic Flame Towers from a distance, and visit the picturesque 'Mini-Venice' for a charming boat ride. For a budget lunch, grab a 'qutab' (a stuffed flatbread) or a doner kebab from a street vendor for just a few Manat.
Day 3: Day Trip to Gobustan and the Mud Volcanoes
No trip to Azerbaijan is complete without visiting the Gobustan National Park, another UNESCO site famous for its ancient rock petroglyphs. Nearby, you'll find the incredible mud volcanoes, a unique natural phenomenon where cones of mud bubble and erupt. Organised tours can be pricey, but you can hire a taxi for the day for a more reasonable price, especially if you are travelling in a group. A tour can cost between 50-100 AZN. Pack some snacks and water to save money, as options are limited on-site. This full-day trip offers a fascinating glimpse into Azerbaijan's prehistoric past and geological wonders.
Day 4: The Land of Fire and Shopping
Today is all about fire. Take a trip to the Absheron Peninsula to visit Ateshgah, the Fire Temple, a historic site of worship for Zoroastrians and Hindus. Follow this with a visit to Yanar Dag, the 'Burning Mountain', a natural gas fire that blazes continuously on a hillside. Public buses can get you to these sites affordably. In the evening, immerse yourself in local life at Nizami Street, Baku’s main shopping artery. It’s perfect for window shopping and people-watching. You'll find plenty of dinner options here, from fast food to sit-down restaurants. For those craving familiar tastes, Baku has several Indian restaurants like Maharani, Namaste, and Masala Junction.
Day 5: Culture, Carpets, and Local Markets
Spend your final full day soaking up more culture. Visit the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum, housed in a building shaped like a rolled-up carpet, to admire the intricate local craft. Afterwards, experience a local market like Taza Bazaar to see vibrant displays of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Markets are a great place to pick up affordable souvenirs like dried fruits or traditional tea sets. For your farewell dinner, choose a restaurant that offers 'plov' (a traditional rice dish) or a mixed kebab platter to celebrate the end of your journey. A meal at a casual restaurant can cost between 7-15 AZN.
Day 6: Departure
Enjoy a final Azerbaijani breakfast. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final stroll along the boulevard. Head to Heydar Aliyev International Airport via bus or taxi for your flight back to India, filled with memories of a fantastic and affordable trip.
