Exploring Azerbaijan: A Guide For Pakistani Travelers

Azerbaijan and Pakistan have enjoyed strong relations since Pakistan's recognition of Azerbaijan's independence in 1991. The two countries have since collaborated in various sectors, including defence, trade, and energy. With a distance of approximately 1,300-1,500 miles between them, there are several ways to travel from Pakistan to Azerbaijan. The fastest and cheapest option is to fly, which takes around 4-9 hours and costs $190-$600. There are direct flights from various cities in Pakistan, such as Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar, to Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. Alternatively, one can also take a taxi to an airport, fly to Tabriz, Iran, and then take a train and another taxi to reach Azerbaijan. This option takes approximately 21 hours and may cost around $348.

Visa requirements and application process

Pakistani citizens require a visa to enter Azerbaijan. Fortunately, Azerbaijan offers an electronic visa (eVisa) option, which can be applied for online without the need to visit an embassy or consulate in person. This process is more convenient and streamlined.

To apply for an Azerbaijan eVisa, Pakistani citizens need to meet certain requirements, including:

• Passport: A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from the intended date of entry into Azerbaijan. The passport must also have at least two blank pages for stamps.
• Personal Information: Full name, date of birth, nationality, and contact information.
• Travel Details: Intended travel dates, purpose of visit, and places planned to visit in Azerbaijan.
• Accommodation Information: Details of accommodation in Azerbaijan, such as hotel reservations or the address of the host.
• Payment: Using a valid credit or debit card.

The eVisa application process is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps:

• Visit the official eVisa website provided by the Government of Azerbaijan.
• Fill out the online application form with accurate personal, travel, and accommodation details.
• Upload the required documents, such as a passport copy.
• Submit the application electronically and review the details carefully.
• Pay the visa fee using a valid credit or debit card.
• Receive eVisa approval via email once the application is processed and approved.

It is recommended to carry both a printed and a digital copy of the eVisa while travelling. The eVisa is typically valid for 90 days from the date of issue and allows a stay of up to 30 days in Azerbaijan with a single entry.

Transportation options

There are several ways to get from Pakistan to Azerbaijan, with no direct connections available. The most common way to travel between the two countries is by plane, with flights from various cities in Pakistan to Baku Heydar Aliyev Airport (GYD) in Azerbaijan. These flights are operated by different airlines, including Azerbaijan Airlines and Flydubai, and depart from multiple airports in Pakistan, such as Islamabad (ISB), Lahore (LHE), Multan (MUX), Peshawar (PEW), Faisalabad (LYP), and Karachi (KHI). The flight duration ranges from 5 hours to 9 hours, and the price starts from $191 for a one-way trip.

Another option is to take a train and taxi. This involves taking a flight from Pakistan to Tabriz, Iran (TBZ), and then taking a taxi to Tabriz. From there, travellers can take a train to Marāgheh and another taxi to reach Azerbaijan. This option usually takes longer, approximately 21 hours, and may involve higher costs.

It is also possible to combine flights and bus travel. One can fly from Karachi (KHI) to Yerevan, Armenia (EVN), and then take a bus to Tabriz, Iran. From Tabriz, the rest of the journey remains the same, with a train to Marāgheh and a taxi to the final destination in Azerbaijan. This option may take around 23 hours.

When travelling within Azerbaijan, there are several transportation options available. These include taxis, ride-hailing apps, and public transport, such as buses and the metro system in Baku. For intercity travel, marshrutkas (minibuses) are recommended as they are comfortable and economical.

Currency exchange

When travelling from Pakistan to Azerbaijan, it is important to consider the currency exchange between the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) and the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). As of 23 October 2024, 1 AZN is equivalent to 163.60497 PKR, while 1 PKR is equal to 0.00611228 AZN.

It is recommended to exchange your currency before arriving in Azerbaijan, as Pakistani Rupees cannot be exchanged in the country. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport or banks in Azerbaijan's cities, with banks typically offering better exchange rates.

When exchanging currency, it is advisable to keep the following in mind:

• Exchange rates fluctuate: Monitor the exchange rate between the PKR and AZN before your trip to find favourable rates. Currency converters and exchange rate calculators can help you stay informed about the latest rates.
• Carry a mix of currency: It is generally a good idea to carry a mix of Azerbaijani Manats and Pakistani Rupees when travelling. This will allow you to take advantage of the best exchange rates and have local currency readily available for expenses.
• Use authorised sources: Only exchange currency through reputable and authorised sources, such as banks or recognised money exchange services. This will help ensure the safety and security of your transaction.
• Be mindful of fees: When exchanging currency, be aware of any fees or commissions that may be charged by the financial institution. These fees can vary, so it is worth comparing different options before finalising the exchange.
• Carry multiple payment options: In addition to cash, consider carrying other payment methods such as credit or debit cards. These can be used for cashless transactions and may offer more favourable exchange rates in some cases.

Accommodation options

There are a variety of accommodation options available in Azerbaijan, ranging from luxurious 5-star hotels to more affordable 3-star options.

Luxury Hotels

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, Azerbaijan boasts several 5-star hotels. The Ritz-Carlton, Baku, located in the Nasimi district, offers guests a fitness centre, free private parking, a garden, and a terrace. The Fairmont Baku Flame Towers provides guests with luxurious rooms, a fabulous spa, a jazz bar, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. The Baku Marriott Hotel Boulevard, Holiday Inn Baku, and JW Marriott Absheron Baku are also popular choices, offering spacious rooms, stunning views, and a range of amenities.

Mid-Range Hotels

For those seeking a more affordable option, there are several highly-rated 3- and 4-star hotels. The Merchant Baku, located in the Baku City Circuit, offers guests a range of amenities, including a restaurant, concierge services, allergy-free rooms, and a fitness centre. The City Park Hotel, also located in Baku, is another 4-star option, situated just 400 metres from Fountains Square. The Winter Park Hotel Baku and Zimmer Boutique Hotel are also popular choices, offering comfortable rooms and convenient locations.

Boutique Hotels and Guest Houses

For those seeking a more unique experience, there are several boutique hotels and guest houses to choose from. The Qiz Galasi Hotel Baku, a 4-star boutique hotel located in the Baku City Circuit, offers guests concierge services, allergy-free rooms, and a terrace. The Ecomama in Xınalıq Khinalig guest house is a recently renovated guest house in Quba, featuring a garden and a bar, with picturesque mountain views.

Hostels and Apartments

For budget-conscious travellers, there are also several hostels and apartments available. The Sahil Hostel & Hotel, located in the heart of Baku, offers easy access to tourist attractions and transportation. Leyla Apartments 2, located in the Nasimi district of Baku, provides guests with air-conditioned rooms, a 24-hour front desk, and airport transfers.

Resorts and Spas

For travellers seeking relaxation, Azerbaijan offers several resorts and spa hotels. The Shahdag & Spa Hotel, located in the picturesque mountains, features a spa with an indoor pool, a gym, a sauna, and a Turkish steam bath. The Quba Palace Hotel & Golf Resort offers a range of activities, including tennis, golf, and mini football, as well as a spa and wellness centre.

Visa Requirements

It is important to note that as a Pakistani citizen, you must obtain a visa before arriving in Azerbaijan. You can apply for an e-visa through Azerbaijan's online visa portal, and it is recommended to apply at least five days before your planned travel date.

Things to see and do in Azerbaijan

To get from Pakistan to Azerbaijan, you can take a flight to Baku Heydar Aliyev Airport from various Pakistani cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar.

Now, here are some things to see and do in Azerbaijan:

Baku's Old City

Kickstart your trip with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast in Baku's Old City. Try egg-based dishes like pomidor chigirtma, a delicious fusion of scrambled eggs and cooked tomatoes, served with hot tandoor-baked bread, honey, cheeses, creams, and yoghurt. Don't forget the tea!

Sheki's Old Town

Spend an afternoon exploring the Silk Road-inspired streets of Sheki, Azerbaijan's latest UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the city's signature gabled-roof architecture and intricate brickwork, and be sure to sample the unique baklava.

Ancient Churches

Discover Azerbaijan's Christian history by visiting the ancient churches scattered across the countryside. In the village of Nij, you'll find a 17th-century church where an ancient Christian community, the Udis, still gathers every Sunday.

Naftalan

Take a break from sightseeing and head to Naftalan, a resort town about an hour's drive from Ganja. Naftalan is famous for its healing oil, which has been used for centuries to cure various ailments.

Hike the Caucasus Mountains

Azerbaijan is blessed with a glorious stretch of the Caucasus Mountains in the north, dotted with timeless mountain villages. Shrouded in myth and legend, these villages are linked by an emerging network of hiking trails.

Baku's Modern Wonders

In recent years, Baku's skyline has been transformed by spectacular modern architectural masterpieces. Check out the Heydar Aliyev Centre, the Flame Towers, and the Carpet Museum, to name a few.

Caspian Sea

With over 500 km of coastline, you're never too far from the beach in Azerbaijan. Just a 30-minute drive from Baku, the Absheron Peninsula offers luxury resorts, water parks, local fish restaurants, and scenic beaches.

National Parks

Azerbaijan is home to nine of the world's 11 climate zones, so its national parks offer a diverse range of rare fauna and flora. Go wildlife-spotting in these wilderness zones to experience the country's natural diversity.

Azerbaijani Wines

Azerbaijan's wine industry is undergoing a revival, with stunning flavours produced from foreign and native grapes. Explore the growing number of wineries across the country and chic wine bars in the capital.

Tea Culture

Tea is synonymous with hospitality in Azerbaijan. Partake in the centuries-old Azerbaijani tea ceremonies, where tea is served in a special pear-shaped glass with lemon and sugar, often accompanied by honey, jams, and sweets.

Yanar Dağ (Fire Mountain)

Check out this mysterious hillside with a continuously burning natural fire. A shrine of fire worship has been built on top of this natural flame.

Mud Volcanoes

Azerbaijan is home to nearly a third of the world's mud volcanoes, so you're in for a messy, bubbling, and sometimes explosive treat!

Gobustan Rock Art

Visit the Gobustan National Historical-Artistic Preserve Museum and the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape to discover ancient rock art and learn about the country's history.

Palace of the Shirvanshahs

This sandstone palace complex was the seat of northeastern Azerbaijan's ruling dynasty during the Middle Ages. It offers fantastic views and a glimpse into the country's past.

Frequently asked questions