Photo by: Javid Asadov
Khinalug has been inhabited for more than 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus. Due to its remote location, the village has preserved its ancient traditions, language, and way of life, relatively untouched by modern influences.
The people of Khinalug speak a unique language known as Khinalug, which is part of the Northeast Caucasian language family and is not related to Azerbaijani or other regional languages. It is spoken only in this village, making it one of the rarest languages in the world.
The villagers also practice their own distinct customs, blending traditional Azerbaijani culture with elements that are unique to their highland lifestyle.
The area is also a prime spot for trekking, with numerous trails leading to different parts of the Caucasus, including nearby glaciers and waterfalls.
Khinalug is accessible from the town of Quba, about 60 kilometers away, but getting there is an adventure in itself. The road leading to the village is steep and winding, cutting through the Caucasus Mountains and providing breathtaking views along the way. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is usually recommended, especially in the winter months when snow can make the journey challenging.