The Visa Process: Genuinely Simple
For many Indian travellers, the thought of visa applications can be daunting. However, Azerbaijan has made the process remarkably straightforward, especially for tourists. Indian passport holders must get a visa before travelling, as there is no visa-on-arrival
option. The best route is the ASAN e-Visa system, which you can access through the official government portal (evisa.gov.az). The standard tourist e-visa is typically processed within three working days. It allows for a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days. For those in a hurry, an urgent processing option can have your visa ready in as little as three hours. The process is entirely online; you'll need a scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least six months) and a digital photograph. There's no need for embassy visits or stacks of financial documents, making it a hassle-free start to your journey.
Baku: Where Fire Meets the Future
Your Azerbaijan journey will likely begin in Baku, a city of fascinating contrasts. One moment you're wandering through the ancient, walled Old City (Icherisheher), a UNESCO World Heritage site with its famous Maiden Tower and the 15th-century Palace of the Shirvanshahs. The next, you're gazing at the futuristic Flame Towers, three skyscrapers that light up the night sky with mesmerizing LED displays. Don't miss the Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid that seems to defy gravity. For a more relaxed vibe, take a stroll along the Baku Boulevard, a breezy promenade on the Caspian Sea, or explore Nizami Street for shopping and people-watching. The city is incredibly clean, safe, and easy to navigate using the metro or affordable ride-hailing apps like Bolt.
Sheki: A Dreamy Silk Road Escape
After the urban energy of Baku, a trip to Sheki feels like stepping back in time. Nestled in the forested foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, this historic city was a vital stop on the ancient Silk Road. Its crown jewel is the Palace of Sheki Khans, a stunning summer residence built in the 18th century without a single nail. The palace is famous for its 'shebeke'—intricate stained-glass windows made from thousands of hand-fitted pieces of coloured glass. You can also explore historic caravanserais, which were once roadside inns offering shelter to merchants and their caravans. One of these, the Upper Caravanserai, now functions as a hotel, offering a unique chance to sleep in a piece of history. While in Sheki, be sure to try the local delicacy, Sheki Halva, a sweet, flaky pastry made with nuts and honey.
Getting Around: Connecting the Cities
The journey from Baku to Sheki, approximately 300-375 km, is an adventure in itself. You have several convenient options. The bus is the most budget-friendly choice, with multiple daily departures from Baku International Bus Terminal; the trip takes around six to seven hours. Another popular option is the overnight train, which offers a comfortable way to travel while saving on a night's accommodation. The train journey takes about six and a half hours. For more flexibility, you can hire a private car or a shared taxi. This allows you to travel at your own pace and make stops at scenic spots along the way. The drive itself is beautiful, transitioning from the dry landscape around Baku to the lush green mountains of the northwest.
Pro-Tips for the Gen Z Traveller
To make your trip smooth and enjoyable, keep a few things in mind. The local currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN); while credit cards are widely accepted in Baku, it's wise to carry cash for smaller towns like Sheki. For connectivity, picking up a local SIM card at the airport is easy and affordable. Azerbaijani is the official language, but English is spoken in many tourist areas in Baku. When it comes to food, be adventurous! Beyond the delicious kebabs, try plov (a rice pilaf) and dolma (stuffed grape leaves). Finally, while Azerbaijan is a modern country, it's always respectful to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
