Nagorno-Karabakh

Nagorno-Karabakh is an Armenian enclave in Azerbaijan.

Regions

  • Askeran
  • Hadrut
  • Mardakert
  • Martuni
  • Shushi

Cities

  • Stepanakert
  • Shushi
  • Hadrut
  • Mardakert
  • Martuni

Other destinations

  • Gandzasar Monastery
  • Dadivank Monastery
  • Gtichavank Monastery
  • Amaras Monastery
  • Shushi City Walls
  • Askeran Fortress

Understand

Get in

The only country you can currently arrive in Karabakh from is Armenia (which is illegal to do if you intend to visit Azerbaijan). The vast majority arrive by automobile via the Berdzor (Lachin) Corridor, though driving through the Karvajar (Kelbajar) pass or helicopter are alternatives. To enter the self-declared republic of Nagorno Karabakh, you have to obtain a visa from the authorities, either beforehand in Yerevan, or at the border (ask if it will be possible beforehand). Visa will be $25 (2004).

Be sure not to get the visa inside your passport if you plan to travel to Azerbaijan with the same passport in the future - the Azeri authorities will not let you enter in this case! Instead, ask for the visa to be attached to your passport.

By plane

By train

By car

By bus

Get around

Talk

Buy

Eat

  • Jingalov Hats - a bread that has greens baked into it, a local specialty.
  • Tutti Chamich - mulberry raisins, available at the market (shuka)

Drink

Tutti Oghi - Mulberry Vodka, which Karabakh is famous for, often reaching 80% alcohol, and with a distinct taste.

Sleep

Learn

Work

Limitless volunteer work for the willing. Incredibly low cost of living.

Stay safe

Don't venture east of the Mardakert-Martuni highway, where the ceasefire line is located. Very safe to travel around and interact with people.

Stay healthy

Drink bottled water if you are not accustomed to the local waters.

Respect

Contact

Locals are very proud and hospitable.

External links