How to get a permit to visit Karabakh

A little about Karabakh 🏔️

Karabakh is a historic region in the South Caucasus. It is located in the western part of Azerbaijan. The region includes both lowland areas and a mountainous part known as Nagorno-Karabakh. It is home to forests, canyons, mountain rivers, and picturesque highland landscapes.

Azerbaijan restored control over Karabakh in 2020. Since then, extensive efforts have been underway to clear landmines and rebuild cities, roads, and infrastructure throughout the region. Today, many areas of Karabakh are safe and open to tourists.

However, to visit Karabakh, travelers must obtain a special entry permit in advance. The application process is straightforward and can be completed online.

How do I get permission?

A permit to enter Karabakh can be obtained online by both foreigners and citizens of Azerbaijan at www.yolumuzqarabaga.az. The website is available in three languages: Azerbaijani, English, and Russian.

To do so, simply visit the website and fill in the required fields. It is important to note that access to the territory of Karabakh is possible via public transport or by a vehicle with Azerbaijani registration plates. The entry permit is issued for a period of 5 days.

If you are a foreign citizen, you need to select the application method for foreigners, as shown in the photo:

You can also find all the necessary information about hotels on this website, including their addresses, email addresses, and contact numbers.

How to get to Karabakh?

Buses 🚌

Currently, bus services to Karabakh are available. Tickets can be purchased on the website www.biletim.az or through the “Biletim” mobile app. It is recommended to buy tickets in advance and provide a phone number, so that in case of changes to the route, departure time, or other details, you can be notified beforehand.

The ticket price depends on the destination, but it is generally not higher than 20 manats.

What to see in Karabakh?

• Shusha is one of the most well-known place in the region. It is a historic city built on a cliff, featuring beautiful panoramic views, ancient architecture, a fortress, mosques, and cultural sites. It is often referred to as the cultural capital of Karabakh.

• Khankendi is the largest city in the region. Here you can see modern urban life, parks, museums, and administrative buildings.

• Aghdam is a city that is currently being partially rebuilt. It is known as a symbol of post-war reconstruction in the region, with large-scale construction work taking place there.

• Fuzuli and Zangilan are new infrastructure zones with modern roads, airports, and restored territories.

• The Lachin corridor and surrounding areas feature mountain landscapes, roads through mountain ranges, and beautiful natural scenery.