When it comes to natural wonders, Azerbaijan is home to many unique and fascinating attractions, one of which is Yanar Dag. Located just outside of Baku, Yanar Dag is a hillside that has been burning with natural gas for thousands of years. Also known as the “Burning Mountain of Baku,” this site draws thousands of visitors each year to witness the awe-inspiring sight of the eternal flame. In this blog, we will explore the history and origin of Yanar Dag, provide tips for visiting, and discuss the cultural significance of this natural wonder in Azerbaijan.

History and Origin of Yanar Dag

Yanar Dag is believed to have been formed as a result of geological changes that occurred in the region thousands of years ago. The hillside is rich in natural gas deposits, and a fault in the earth’s crust allows the gas to escape and burn continuously. The name “Yanar Dag” translates to “burning mountain” in English, which is a fitting description of this natural wonder.

In addition to its geological significance, Yanar Dag also holds great cultural and historical importance for Azerbaijan. The site has been a place of pilgrimage for locals for centuries, and many legends and myths surround the eternal flame. Some believe that fire has healing powers and can cure illnesses, while others see it as a symbol of the country’s natural wealth and resources.

Importance of Yanar Dag in Azerbaijan culture

Yanar Dag is an important cultural and historical site in Azerbaijan, and its significance is reflected in the local legends and myths that surround it. Many Azerbaijanis view the eternal flame as a symbol of the country’s natural wealth and resources, and it’s a place of pilgrimage for locals. Fire is believed to have healing powers and can cure illnesses.

Yanar Dag is a natural wonder that is truly one-of-a-kind. The eternal flame is a sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. The history and origin of Yanar Dag, its cultural significance, and the experience of visiting this site make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Baku, Azerbaijan. Be sure to plan your visit to Yanar Dag at night, when the flame is most visible, and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. And don’t forget to bring water and snacks with you.

Visiting Burning Mountain of Baku

If you’re planning a visit to Yanar Dag, the best time to go is in the evening, when the flame is most visible. The site is located about 30 kilometres from Baku, and there are several transportation options available to get there. You can take a bus from the city centre or hire a taxi. It is also possible to visit Yanar Dag as part of a guided tour.

When you arrive at Yanar Dag, you’ll be able to walk along a path that circles the burning section of the hill. The heat from the flame can be quite intense, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Also, there are no facilities on-site, so it’s best to bring water and snacks with you.

How much does it cost to enter Yanardag?

If you’re planning to visit this natural wonder, here’s some important information on ticket prices

Foreign visitors pay 9 azn (around 5 USD).

University students with a valid student ID can enter only 1 azn. (o.5USD)

If you’re looking to explore both Yanardag and Ateshgah Fire Temple, a combo ticket is available for 11 azn (6.5 USD), which is valid for 72 hours after the first entrance and for one person only. Additionally, discount rates also apply for the combo ticket.

How can I book guided tours to Yanardag?

Baku City Tours is your go-to tour operator for visiting Yanardag. Whether you’re looking for a group tour or a private tour, they have options to suit your needs. Their Full Day Gobustan & Absheron tour or Half Day Ateshgah & Yanardag tour offer a comprehensive experience of the area, or you can choose to book only a private Yanardag tour. To book your tour, simply contact the team at Baku City Tours and they will be happy to assist you. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience at Yanardag with Baku City Tours.

It’s important to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability and to avoid disappointment.

Click to see best guided tour offers in Baku

How do I get there:

By Taxi:

To get to YanarDag from Baku by taxi, you can ask your hotel or accommodation to call a reputable taxi company or use a ride-hailing app such as Uber or Bolt. The journey from the city centre to YanarDag is around 25 km and it will take around 30-40 minutes depending on the traffic. It is important to agree on the fare with the driver before the journey and to have the address of YanarDag written in Azerbaijani or Russian to show the driver.

By public Transportation:

Alternatively, you can take public transportation to get to Yanar Dag. One option is to take Bus number 136 from the city centre to the bus stop named “Yanar Dag”, then take a taxi or walk to Yanar Dag. The bus ride takes around 45 minutes to an hour.

It’s always good to check the schedule and routes with locals or on the official website before taking the trip. Also, it’s recommended to visit Yanar Dag with a guide, as it is a protected area and the guide will provide you with more detailed information about the history, culture and geology of the place.

 MAP OF THE YANARDAG NATIONAL RESERVE