Sheki – Kish

Sheki – Kish : 8.2 km, +295m/-204m (E → W)

This off-trail route is designed to take you through some of Sheki’s most famous landmarks before leading to the village of Kish. Sheki is a vibrant Silk Road town, known for its caravanserais, traditional crafts, and historic architecture. 

Sheki’s heritage stretches far beyond the Silk Road era, as evidenced by Albanian-period ruins, such as the temple within the historical city gates. The city also hosts modern artistic expressions in spaces like the Crafts House and ABAD Center. This route is paved throughout, making for city walk, rather than a hike. While we suggest a path that highlights key areas, you are free to choose your own route through Sheki’s charming streets and alleyways.

Trail conditions

This route follows paved city streets from Sheki to Kish. You can explore freely; our suggested route simply highlights key landmarks and amenities.

Water

While village water sources typically come from natural springs, we cannot verify the filtration of Sheki’s city tap water. We advise refilling at known springs, spring-fed houses, or using bottled water.

Trail access 

Sheki is accessible by bus and train from Baku. It is a town well-connected by road, and taxi services (including *0066) are available within the city.

Kish is easily accessible by car from Sheki. The village is a short hike or drive away from Sheki’s center.

Trail amenities

Sheki is well-equipped with numerous amenities for travelers. If you’re looking to stock up on supplies before heading toward Kish, the Sheki Bazaar is a lively and authentic marketplace where you can find fresh, local goods, while BazarStore, the largest supermarket in town, offers a more conventional selection of groceries and necessities. Various smaller markets line the streets throughout the town.

Accommodation options in Sheki cater to a wide range of budgets. Central Hostel provides an affordable stay with clean bunk rooms, breakfast and lunch options, and fresh coffee and desserts. Canal Hostel is another budget option, while Markhal Resort provides a more luxurious experience with spa facilities and great views of the surrounding mountains.

Sheki’s rich and hearty cuisine makes it a great place to enjoy a delicious meal before setting off on the trail. Qafqaz Restaurant is a tasty spot if you’re trying to go where the locals go to eat. There is no fixed menu, but there’s always a delicious array being prepared in the kitchen. No visit to Sheki is complete without trying Piti, a traditional slow-cooked stew of lamb and chickpeas, served in a clay pot. The dish is an experience in itself, as there is a specific way to eat it; be sure to ask your server for guidance on the proper method!

If you find yourself in need of a caffeine break, Illy Espresso House in the historic district and Central Cafe offer quality coffee.

Cultural heritage sites

As one of Azerbaijan’s most historic cities, Sheki is home to numerous cultural and architectural landmarks that reflect its Silk Road legacy. The Sheki Khan’s Summer Palace is the city’s crown jewel, famous for its intricate craftsmanship and colorfully painted walls, and vibrant stained glass windows, the glass of which was imported from Venice centuries ago. No nails were used in the making of the building; you can check out the shebeki-maker’s workshop in the nearby garden to see how these beautiful windows are put together. A lesser-known but equally impressive site is the Sheki Khan’s Winter Palace, which features similar decorative elements. The historic quarter of the city is home to the Upper Caravanserai, a grand roadside inn that once provided shelter to merchants and travelers along the Silk Road. Today, it still functions as both a hotel and restaurant, allowing visitors to experience a piece of Sheki’s mercantile history firsthand.

For those interested in arts and local craftsmanship, the ABAD Art Center and Crafts House display the work and products of modern and traditional artistry, much of which has been passed down within families over generations. Within the historic city gates, you’ll also find remnants of Sheki’s Albanian Christian past, including an ancient Albanian temple, as well as a museum on local history and ethnography. Walking through Sheki’s old quarter, you’ll pass by charming red-brick buildings, cobbled streets, and artisan workshops, where traditional crafts such as silk weaving and stained glass-making continue to be practiced and passed down through generations.