If you're planning a trip to the remarkably quaint and picturesque Khinalug and its historic mosque, nestled in the Greater Caucasus mountains, here’s what you need to know.
By Car: Khinalug is located approximately 220 km from the capital city of Baku. The journey by car can take around 4 to 5 hours, depending on road and weather conditions. It's recommended to use a 4x4 vehicle as the terrain can be rough closer to Khinalug.
Public Transportation: There is limited public transport to Khinalug. Some minibusses and shared taxis operate from the city of Quba, which is the nearest major hub. From Baku, you can take a bus or a taxi to Quba, and then transfer to a minibus or a shared taxi that will take you to Khinalug.
The Khinalug Mosque is located right in the heart of Khinalug village, which is at an elevation of about 2,350 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest and most remote mosques in Europe and Asia. Its specific location within the village is central and easy to find as Khinalug is a small village.
Traveling to Khinalug can be done year-round, but the best time would be from late spring to early fall (May to October) when the weather is more amenable for hiking and outdoor activities.
Khinalug is a small village, and while there are a few guesthouses and homestays, it's best to book accommodation in advance especially during peak tourist seasons. Basic facilities are available, but it’s advisable to bring any special necessities with you from a larger city.
We hope you enjoy your visit to Khinalug and its historic mosque. Safe travels!