Lankaran travel guide
Tea plantations, citrus groves and the UNESCO-listed Hyrcanian forests between the Caspian and the Talysh Mountains.
Lankaran is in the south of the country, between the Caspian Sea and the Talysh Mountains. Its humid subtropical climate allows tea, citrus fruit and rice to grow.
The region’s greatest treasure is the Hyrcanian forest: these rare forests, which survived the Ice Age, were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023.
Things to see
Hirkan National Park
Ancient forests of ironwood and other relict trees, with forest trails and viewpoints.
Lake Khanbulan
A reservoir surrounded by forest, with picnic areas along the shore.
Tea plantations and lavangi
Visits to tea gardens and the south’s best-known dish — lavangi, stuffed with walnuts and sour plum.
When to go
April to June and September to November. Summer is hot and humid; autumn is the best time for the forests.
Getting there
It is a 3.5–4 hour drive from Baku. Trains also run on the Baku–Astara line.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Lankaran?
Autumn: the forests are colourful, the citrus harvest begins and the air is less humid than in summer.
Can I combine Lankaran with Lerik?
Yes. Lerik is about 1.5 hours away by mountain road — a good 2-day southern route.