Looking for a destination beyond Azerbaijan’s major cities? A road trip to Qakh is the perfect change of pace. Nestled in the country’s northwest, Qakh is a peaceful area known for its centuries-old landmarks. UAE travelers who want quiet views, old churches, and fortresses will enjoy here. Renting a car in Azerbaijan can help you freely visit remote villages and hidden historic sites at your own pace. Keep reading to discover the top historic sites in Qakh.
UAE tourists in Azerbaijan need a valid passport, UAE driver’s license, and an International Driving Permit. You can rent a car in major cities like Baku, Sheki, or Ganja. The drive from Baku to Qakh takes about five hours and covers around 402 kilometers via M2 road. Typically, a small SUV is ideal for the region’s hills and village roads. Here are some useful tips for UAE tourists planning to drive in Azerbaijan.
1. Book Early to Secure the Right Vehicle Type
Rental demand is high during holidays and weekends. Book online at least a week before your trip to secure a small SUV or crossover, which are best for Qakh’s winding and hilly roads. Avoid compact cars—they may not handle mountain drives or village terrain well.
2. Choose a Rental Plan with Full Insurance Coverage
Make sure your rental includes full insurance that covers damage, theft, and third-party liability. Some local rental companies offer cheaper rates but limit coverage. Read the fine print or ask for English-language terms before signing.
3. Map Out Fuel Stops Before Leaving City Limits
Gas stations become rare as you head into the mountains. Fill up in Baku, Sheki, or Ganja, and take note of fuel stations near Zaqatala or Mukhakh. Most rural stations accept cash only, so keep small bills in Azerbaijani manat on hand.
Qakh is a small town, but it holds one of the richest historical landscapes in northwest Azerbaijan. Its location at the edge of the Caucasus Mountains and near the Georgian border placed it along key trade and migration routes.
For centuries, this area was part of ancient Caucasian Albania, then later influenced by Persian, Arab, Georgian, and Russian rule. These shifts shaped Qakh’s mix of architecture and heritage. You’ll find Albanian Christian churches, Islamic monuments, and even defensive towers from medieval times.
Many of these sites have survived due to the region’s remote setting and limited urban development. Here are the top 10 historic places to visit in and around Qakh.
Ilisu Village is one of the most historic places in the Qakh region. It was once the capital of the Ilisu Sultanate, which ruled from the 1500s to the 1800s. Because of its location in the Caucasus Mountains, it was an important center for politics, religion, and defense. You can still see the old Sumug-gala fortress and the Ulu Mosque, which were built during that time.
When you visit, you can walk through stone-paved paths, explore the ruins, and enjoy views of the mountains. The Sumug-gala fortress gives you a wide view of the valley. The Ulu Mosque is still standing and shows the village’s Islamic heritage. You can also take a short hike to Ram-Rama Waterfall, which looks amazing in winter when it freezes.
To get to Ilisu by car, drive about 12 kilometers from Qakh town. The road takes you through forested hills and crosses the old Ulu Bridge over the Kurmuk River.
St. George’s Church, located in the village of Gakh-Inguila in the Qakh District, is as a significant symbol of the Georgian Orthodox faith in Azerbaijan. It was originally constructed in the mid-19th century through voluntary donations in honor of the Holy Great Martyr George. The church is notable for being the only active Georgian Orthodox church in Azerbaijan, serving the local Ingiloy Georgian community.
Visitors can admire its well-preserved white facade, stone bell tower, and surrounding courtyard. The interior features bright, colorful walls and ceilings adorned with paintings illustrating important religious scenes. The church is active. It hosts significant Christian Orthodox ceremonies throughout the year, where the Ingiloy community gathers to worship and light candles for their wishes.
To reach St. George’s Church by car, drive approximately 10 kilometers north from the center of Qakh town to the village of Gakh-Inguila. The church is situated about 30 meters from the left bank of the Kakistskali River, near the border with Georgia.
Ulu Bridge, also known as Ulu Körpü, is a historic stone bridge near Ilisu Village in the Qakh District. It was built in the 18th century over the Kurmuk River. The bridge connected Ilisu to nearby lowland areas during the time of the Ilisu Sultanate. Its name, "Ulu," means "great" or "ancient" in Azerbaijani, showing its importance and age.
The bridge is approximately 14.6 meters long. It was constructed using river stones, lime mortar, and baked bricks. Some accounts mention that egg yolk was mixed into the mortar to strengthen the structure. Despite its age, Ulu Bridge remains intact and is still used today. To reach Ulu Bridge by car, drive about 12 kilometers from Qakh town to Ilisu Village. The bridge is located just before entering the village, along the main road.
Kurmukhi Church, also known as Kurmuk Temple, is a historic Georgian Orthodox church. It was originally built in the 12th century during the Kingdom of Georgia's golden age. The church was destroyed in the early 17th century during Shah Abbas I's invasions and was rebuilt in 1890. The church is currently inactive.
Visitors can admire the church's architecture, including its red-tiled roof and stone walls. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The church is particularly significant during the annual Kurmukhoba festival, a feast of Saint George, which is celebrated by both Christians and Muslim Ingiloys.
To reach Kurmukhi Church by car, drive approximately 15 kilometers north from Qakh town. The road leads through scenic landscapes to the base of the hill where the church is located. A short hike up the hill is required to reach the church.
The Qakh History and Ethnography Museum, established in 1981, preserves the rich cultural heritage of the Qakh region. Initially housed in the 19th-century Allahverdi Church, the museum relocated to its current building in 1991. Today, it houses a collection of approximately 11,500 artifacts, including archaeological finds, traditional clothing, tools, and household items that reflect area’s history and traditions.
Visitors can explore eight exhibition halls. Each has a different aspect of local life and history. The museum offers insights into the customs, crafts, and daily activities of the people who have inhabited the region over the centuries. It is located in the center of Qakh town along 1 Uzeyir Hajibeyov Street.
The Lekit Fortress Ruins are located near Lekit village, about 20 kilometers northwest of Qakh town. These remains are part of a 12th-century Christian monastery complex, believed to have once belonged to the Caucasian Albanian Church.
The site includes fragments of old walls, defensive towers, and the remains of several churches most notably linked to the Yeddi Kilsa (Seven Churches) group. You can still see parts of the original arched doorways, foundation stones, and segments of fortress walls. It's not a restored site, so wear good shoes and be ready for uneven paths. To reach the ruins, drive to Lekit village, then take a short walk or hike into the forested hills where the ruins are located. A local guide may help you find the site more easily.
Saribash is a remote mountain village in the Qakh District, located at 1,800 meters above sea level. It is one of Azerbaijan's most secluded settlements. The village is known for its stone houses, some with grass-covered roofs, and its peaceful atmosphere. Due to its isolation, Saribash has preserved much of its traditional way of life.
Historically, Saribash has been a site of significance. In 1394, Emir Timur passed through the village during his northern campaigns. Later, Iranian Shah Nadir Avshar and Ilisu Sultan Daniyal also traversed this area. Today, reaching Saribash requires a 4x4 vehicle, as the village is accessible only via challenging mountain roads.
Qum Basilica is one of the oldest Christian monuments in Azerbaijan, located in Qum village, about 8 kilometers southeast of Qakh town. Built in the 5th century, the basilica belonged to the Caucasian Albanian Church and served as an early Christian worship site during the rise of Christianity in the Caucasus.
The basilica was constructed using rough-hewn stone blocks and lime mortar, forming a three-nave layout common in early Christian architecture. Some sections of the outer walls still remain, including fragments of the apse and column bases that supported the roof. Its orientation faces the east, which is typical for Christian structures of the time.
Although now in ruins, the site offers insight into religious practices before Islamic influence became dominant. To reach Qum Basilica, drive from Qakh town toward Qum village. The site is accessible via a short detour from the main road. The terrain is relatively flat and can be reached on foot.
Qakh is where history still lives in villages, towers, and churches untouched by time. With a car, you can reach hidden spots like Ilisu and Lekit, where every stone has a story. Ready to explore Qakh by car? With Finalrentals, you can rent a vehicle and reach Qakh with ease. We offer flexible pick-up and drop-off options whether you’re landing at Heydar Aliyev International Airport or picking up from Baku’s city center.
