Kish – Bash Goynuk
Kish – Bash Goynuk: 20.4 km, +1283m/-1352m (E → W)
This trail takes you from the cobblestoned village of Kish and winding forests up into the green pasturelands before descending into the valley of Bash Goynuk. This trail has been marked by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board. Expect a demanding climb, rewarding views from the ridge, and a steep, rocky descent followed by a riverside walk into Bash Goynuk.
Trail conditions
This trail consists of cobbled village paths, forested switchbacks, and highland ridges with expansive views. The ascent from Kish is steady but steep at parts, leading to an open ridge with a 2000-meter elevation point before a rocky descent to Bash Goynuk. The final stretch follows a mostly flat rocky road.
Predictable trail issues include:
- Water: No water sources after leaving Kish until you descend near Bash Goynuk. Stock up at the village water station before heading out.
- Overgrowth: Particularly on the initial downhill towards the forest, the area is particularly prone to overgrowth, including of giant hogweed. Be prepared to follow GPS tracks and to deal with such overgrowth correctly without causing harm to yourself.
- Steep descent: The final section before reaching Bash Goynuk is steep and rocky. Use caution to avoid slips.
- Muddy conditions: The last 7 km may be muddy after rainfall, with standing water along the flat sections.
This section has been marked by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board with red and white blazes, and yellow signposts, making it one of the better-marked routes in the region. Many of the signposts have been taken down since last maintenance, so we recommend having all GPS tracks downloaded on your devices before departure.
Water
There are no water sources between Kish and Bash Goynuk. Be sure to stock up in Kish at the village water station before heading out. The next reliable water source is at the base of the descent near a shepherd shelter, where you can refill from a hose near the water trough.
Trail access
On the eastern side, the trailhead can be accessed from Kish or the nearby Markhal Palace Resort. Taxis from Sheki can drop you at either location. The trail passes the Church of Kish, where you can stop for a visit before continuing your hike.
On the western side, the trail ends at Bash Goynuk, a large village with food, markets, and accommodation options. The village connects to the road network leading towards Sheki or Bash Layisqi.
Trail amenities
Food & lodging in Sheki:
Sheki is the best place to stock up before your hike, with plenty of markets, restaurants, and accommodations ranging from hostels to high-end resorts.
- Budget: Central Hostel
- Luxury: Markhal Palace Resort
Food & lodging in Kish:
Several cafes in Kish (marked on OpenStreetMaps).
A campsite is available on the outskirts of the village.
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- Guesthouses:
- Hilal Boutique Hotel: 055 977 9968
- Gasimov Samir: 077 681 2988
- Yunusova Aygul: 055 526 9660
- Huseynova Samira: 050 383 7922
- Huseynzade Ilhama: 050 631 0246
- Guesthouses:
Food & lodging in Bash Goynuk:
- Several small markets in the village (some marked on OpenStreetMaps).
- Restaurants: Su Sesi (near the bridge towards Bash Layisqi)
- Guesthouses:
- Ibrahimkhalilov Elvin (east of the river): 070 580 1138
- Osmanov Movlud (west of the river): 055 583 5847
Camping: If not staying in a guesthouse, you can camp on flat ground near the river, on either side of the bridge.
Cultural heritage sites
- Church of Kish: This historical Albanian church is worth a visit before setting off. Entry fee: 4₼ (foreigners), 2₼ (locals). Optional narrated excursion: 3₼.
