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Mount Ilandag

Nakhchivan  >  Azerbaijan

Mount Ilandag, where legend says Noah scraped the keel of the Ark, can be seen from close range along a road passing by.

Added* by Aytan Isayeva
Most recent update 21 April 2022
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Description

At Mount Ilandag all four species of vultures (Egyptian Vulture, Eurasian Black Vulture, Griffon Vulture and Bearded Vulture) can be seen soaring if you are lucky. Also Bimaculated Lark and Greater Short-toed Lark breed here.

Details

Access

When to visit: Late spring and early summer is the time to come for most target species. Late autumn and winter is the time for wintering birds along the Araz river and reservoir. Go with a guide: Please note that it is currently not really possible to do a birdwatching trip independently in Nakhchivan, because many of the best sites are in border areas.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Mountain , Steppe , City/village , Scattered trees and bushes

Conditions

Mountainous , Rocky , Dry

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring , Summer , Winter

Route

Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Car , Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

Nakhchivan is a fascinating region steeped in history, culture and natural splendour. Sights not to miss include the 12th century Mausoleum of Momine Khatun, Nakhchivan Khan’s Palace, the mountain setting of Batabat Lake and mysterious Mt Ilandag. Make sure you also hike up the over 1,500 steps to Alinja Castle, ‘Azerbaijan’s Machu Picchu’, and visit the Duzdag salt cave sanatorium. Fascinatingly, local legend says that Noah settled here after the Great Flood and his tomb is located in Nakhchivan city. The region is also renowned for its hospitable locals.

Sleeping: Nakhchivan city is the best base for birdwatchers as it has several good hotels (including Tabriz, Hotel Grand, Duzdag and Saat Meydani) and all sites are easily accessible from here.

Eating: Nakhchivan’s continental climate results in a slightly different cuisine to mainland Azerbaijan. Be sure to try local specialties like arzuman kufta and the honey-drizzled Ordubad omelette. Restaurants serving local cuisine are widespread in towns and cities. In Nakhchivan city you’ll find international food and drink options.

Links

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