I had the chance to visit Sheki (also spelled Shaki) during my trip to Azerbaijan, and it truly felt like stepping into a different world. Nestled in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Sheki is a charming historic town known for its natural beauty, rich silk road history, and intricate architecture.

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Where is Sheki Located?

Sheki is located in northwestern Azerbaijan, near the border with Georgia. It lies about 300 km from Baku, making it a perfect escape from the bustle of the capital.

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How to Reach Sheki

• From Baku by bus: You can easily take a bus from Baku’s International Bus Terminal. The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours.
• By train: The closest train station is in Yevlakh, about 80 km away. From there, you can take a minibus or taxi to Sheki.
• Many travelers, including me, combine Baku – Gabala – Sheki as a scenic road route through the country.

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Where I Stayed in Sheki

I stayed near the Sheki Khan’s Palace area, which is central and scenic. You can find everything from heritage guesthouses and boutique hotels to more modern stays. Some guesthouses are even built in traditional caravanserai style!

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Best Things to Do in Sheki

1. Sheki Khan’s Palace
The most iconic attraction! This 18th-century palace is famous for its stained glass windows (shebeke) and intricate Persian-style frescoes. A must-visit.

2. Sheki Fortress Walls
Wander through the old defensive walls and enjoy panoramic views of the town.

3. Shebeke Workshops
Watch local artisans create colorful stained-glass mosaics without nails or glue—a centuries-old Sheki tradition.

4. Upper and Lower Bazaars
Explore these traditional markets where you’ll find local sweets, nuts, dried fruits, souvenirs, and silk scarves.

5. Albanian Church of Kish
Located just a short drive from Sheki, this ancient Caucasian Albanian church is believed to be one of the oldest Christian buildings in the region. The surrounding village is also beautiful to explore.

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What to Eat in Sheki

Sheki is known for some unique Azerbaijani dishes:

• Sheki Piti – A famous stew made with lamb, chickpeas, and saffron, cooked in a clay pot. You have to try it!
• Sheki Halva – A local sweet made with rice flour, nuts, and syrup. It’s very different from Turkish halva.
• Kete – A type of flaky bread sometimes filled with herbs or sugar.
• Dolma and grilled meats are also widely available and delicious.

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Best Time to Visit Sheki

• Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.
• Summer is green and lively, but can be a bit hot in the afternoon.
• Winter is quiet and snowy — beautiful, but some places might be closed.

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How to Get Around

• Walking is the best way to explore Sheki. Most attractions are located close to the town center.
• For trips to nearby villages like Kish, taxis or local minibuses are easily available.

Sheki left a peaceful mark on me. The people were humble, the food was soulful, and the scenery—especially the mountain backdrop—was breathtaking. It’s a great place to unwind and soak in the authentic culture of Azerbaijan away from modern city life.

If you have any questions about my trip, don’t hesitate to ask them!

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