Uncovering the Magical Azerbaijan: Ankita’s Solo Trip with Thrillophilia
“If you want to experience life, pack your bags and travel, meet new people, walk unknown streets, and learn about diverse cultures.”
This quote is boldly displayed on my office desk, and I follow it with the devotion of a sacred text. At heart, I am an explorer, and for months, one destination dominated my bucket list: Azerbaijan, a country where the essence of Europe and Asia beautifully converge.
After immersing myself in endless reels and YouTube videos, this newly highlighted country allured and fascinated me greatly. With its European-inspired streets, rich cultural fusion, and stunning landmarks, I couldn’t resist the urge to plan my trip. Given my limited time, I opted for a thoughtfully curated package from Thrillophilia (my trusted travel partner for seamless planning). Every detail was tailored to my desires and I couldn’t wait to explore the ancient monuments standing side by side to modern skyscrapers. I started daydreaming way before heading to the plane (a traveller thing for sure!)
Vibrant Streets & Historical Excursion
Azerbaijan is a captivating blend of rich historical landmarks and striking modern architecture and stepping into such a dynamic place is an adventure in itself. I loved exploring the streets of Baku and its famous landmarks. As I set foot on Nizami Street, I could immediately feel the pulse of Baku. The bustling atmosphere, with its vibrant shops and cosy cafes, invited me to explore every corner. The street was a lively space with street performers adding a colourful charm and the aroma of coffee making it inviting! I sat in a cute corner cafe to take in the atmosphere and enjoy the famous Kutabi flatbread. Later I shopped for some local souvenirs and dresses to blend in the vibe of Baku.
The next stop was Highland Park, a tranquil spot offering an incredible panoramic view of Baku’s skyline. Watching the city glow at dusk, with its sparkling lights against the backdrop of the vast sea, was nothing short of magical. It was a moment of pure serenity.
The following morning, I was all set to embark on a tour of Baku’s old city. Walking through its narrow alleys, I marvelled at the iconic Maiden Tower and the Shirvanshahs Palace, both of which told tales of ancient Baku, its glorious history and architecture. I also had the chance to immerse myself in Azerbaijan’s heritage at the National Carpet Museum and the National History Museum.
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My day ended with a ride on the funicular for a bird’s-eye view of the city and it was unreal! The grandiosity of the city from the top was magical and I told myself, “This is one of the most fascinating cities I have ever explored!” After an amazing ride, I went to the Boulevard and while strolling taking in the sea breeze, I let out a contended sigh that I had the perfect day of exploration spent in this beautiful city.
Wonders of Azerbaijan
The highlight of my trip was exploring the natural wonders of the Absheron Peninsula. During my visit, I was amazed by the beauty and uniqueness of each site. First, I went to Yanardag, the “Fiery Mountain,” where natural gas flames have been burning for thousands of years and I couldn’t believe what magic nature holds!
Then, I explored the Ateshgah Temple, an ancient fire temple that reflects Azerbaijan's rich spiritual history and the impressive Mardakan Castle, a beautiful reminder of the country's past. To wrap up the day, our last stop was the stunning Heydar Aliyev Center, with its futuristic architecture and what I saw earlier, I knew why this city is a muse for travellers all around the world. Each place left me in awe of Azerbaijan’s unique beauty!
Exhilarating Trip to Mountains
Azerbaijan has everything, literally! My next excursion was to the lakes and mountains and I was super excited to see the other side of this amazing country. I started my day with a transfer to Gabala and my first stop was Nohur Lake, a peaceful spot surrounded by lush forests. The serene atmosphere was perfect for a relaxing break, and I couldn’t resist trying a boat ride on the lake. I asked my boat rider to stop the boat in the middle of the lake for some time and I sat reflecting on my life in this scenic and calming vibe. I could feel happiness filling my heart and I was glad to be here watching the surrounding mountains, creating a tranquil experience.
Next, I boarded the world’s longest cable car to ascend to Tufandag Mountain. The ride was breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the valley below and the towering peaks above. As we climbed higher, the alpine scenery became even more stunning, with snow-capped mountains stretching as far as the eye could see. At the top, I took in the cool mountain air and the incredible vistas, feeling completely immersed in nature’s beauty.
Reliving Childhood - Amusement Park Fun!
Visiting Gabalaland was like stepping back into my childhood! From the adrenaline-pumping karting races to the cool thrill of gliding on the ice rink, every moment was filled with excitement. The amusement park was huge and I enjoyed my time playing games, eating cotton candy, and going on rides. The energy and joy of the park brought back such wonderful memories. Gabalaland truly offers the perfect mix of adventure and nostalgia!
I was a little bit sad that the trip ended so early, but I was taking back endless memories and beautiful scenery captured in my heart. From the vibrant streets of Baku to the serene beauty of the Caspian Sea, every moment felt like a discovery. I would highly recommend the country as well as Thrillophilia for giving me unforgettable memories and a comfortable travel experience.
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