Khinalug is the remotest and most isolated village in Azerbaijan, situated in the district of Quba. It offers a glimpse into the lives of early nomadic people in this area. The villagers have their own language and predominantly live off the land, raising chickens, sheep, and cows. Cow dung mixed with straw is extensively used in construction and as fuel for cooking and boiling water.
While exploring the village, I noticed many children carrying school bags and water bottles along the narrow alleys and dirt paths. Snow-capped peaks shimmered in the sunlight, adding to the picturesque scenery. I also visited an old museum where I had the opportunity to hold pieces of meteorites that fell near the village thousands of years ago, a moment I’m glad to have captured in pictures.
The village is perched on a hilly slope, with wet and mushy grass making trekking around the area a careful endeavor. I observed the leisurely pace of life, with people walking along the paths, children playing with chickens, and furry white dogs climbing the slopes. Herds of sheep and wild cattle grazed on the soft green grass that thrives in this mountainous region.
In 2006, the president of Azerbaijan initiated measures to improve the village and promote tourism. With only around two thousand inhabitants, Khinalug remains hidden snugly amongst the North Caucasus and is considered a wonderland untouched by time. Most roofs of houses were renovated by the government, and the village is now a designated World Heritage site. I was fortunate to witness its charm firsthand, wandering through its streets and soaking in its timeless energy.
The economy of Khinalug relies heavily on weaving, with locals producing pollen shawls, socks, and jackets. Additionally, medicinal herbs are grown and sold to tourists who visit this quaint village. The village boasts numerous tombstones and graveyards, as well as its own mosque used for prayers. To protect themselves from invading nomadic tribes, fortresses were built in Khinalug in the 10th century, including a watchtower housing a Zoroastrian temple where the eternal fire burns.
Khinalug, which means “island in the mountain,” is a delight to explore. The villagers speak a language called Khynalyg, known for its complexity. According to legend, the village is associated with Noah and his ark, as it is said that he anchored his ark here before commanding everyone to leave. Before the adoption of Islam, the villagers were fire worshippers, but the spread of Islam by a man named Abu Muslim changed the religious landscape of the region.
Although I was advised against venturing into caves due to potential dangers from snakes, scorpions, or bears, I managed to capture some awe-inspiring pictures of them. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the photos and videos of this incredible little village.