Nakhchivan

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Palace of Nakhchivan Khans

Once the private residence of the ruling Nakhchivan Khans, the palace complex is now a museum with over 900 exhibits displayed in eight exhibition halls.

Noah’s Mausoleum

This building is regarded as the burial spot of the prophet Noah. Locals believe that Noah landed, lived, and died here in this area that is now Nakhchivan.

Momine Khatun Tomb

Erected in 1186, this brick tower mausoleum stands on the grave of Momine Khatun, the wife of the founder of the Azerbaijan Atabaylar state who initiated its construction. It remains one of the most outstanding landmarks in the region for its geometric patterns and intricate design.

Heydar Aliyev Museum

This museum is dedicated to Azerbaijan’s National Leader, Heydar Aliyev and the collection includes items from his childhood years, youth, and family. In the main exhibit, there is an extensive collection of paintings, government documents, and signed letters and resolutions by Heydar Aliyev including original copies of agreements signed with the Republic of Turkey and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Carpet Museum

Operating since 1998, the Carpet Museum has a collection of over 3,700 exhibits, including 310 carpets (piled and unpiled kilim, sumax, varni, shadda, palaz), as well as pottery and porcelain, and antique national costumes. In 2010, it was moved from the Palace of the Khans to a more modern building.

Alinja Castle

The ruins of this medieval fortress sits atop a cragged mountaintop and is called “the Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan.” Those willing to climb the 1,500 steps to the summit are rewarded with panoramic views of Nakhchivan’s landscape. The reconstructed walls will strike the imagination of what the castle originally may have looked like when it was built in the 7th century.

Batabat Lake

Amidst Nakchivan’s arid semi-desert landscape is a gorgeous blue lake located among the Caucasus mountains by the border with Armenia.

Ashabu Kahf Cave

Also known as the ‘Seven Sleepers Cave,’ this cave is reminiscent of a story told in the Bible and Quran about a group of youths who hid inside a cave to escape religious persecution and emerged 300 years later.

Duzdag Cave and Therapy Center

ust 7-miles from the city is Duzdag salt caves, known for its huge salt deposits that have been naturally formed millions of years ago. Locals believe the salt has healing properties and thus a therapy center was constructed next to the salt extraction area. Tunnels dug into the salt mountain lead into large chambers where visitors can spend time at leisure to absorb the health benefits. It is said the center is effective in treating asthma, pulmonary disease, and allergies.

Ordubad

The second largest town in Nakhchivan region, Ordubad is a medieval city known for its fruits, spices, and cuisine which were traded along the Silk Road. Take a stroll around its narrow windy streets and stop at a few sites including the mosque, squares, and bathhouses.

Yezidabad Castle

One of the largest attractions in the city, Yezidabad Castle is a reconstructed pre-medieval Sassanid castle named after Yazdgerd III, the last king of the Sassanid Empire.