The latest feature in AZERTAC’s “If I Were a Tourist” column highlights the Ismayilli section of Shahdagh National Park.
The Ismayilli section of Shahdagh National Park is an appealing destination for visitors wishing to enjoy the diverse colors of autumn and explore the area’s rich wildlife. To reach this part of the national park, visitors should take the road leading to Buynuz village from the Ismayilli–Gabala highway.
Early autumn lends the area a special charm, as warm weather persists and the leaves begin to turn yellow. Golden and yellow hues intermingled with the greenery of the forest create a picturesque landscape, capturing the transition from one season to the next.
Established in 2006 to protect the environment, conserve biodiversity, and promote ecotourism, Shahdagh National Park covers parts of the Ismayilli, Guba, Gusar, Gabala, Oghuz, and Shamakhi districts. The park is renowned for its diverse mountain and forest landscapes and rich wildlife.
Exploring the forest’s wildlife
The Ismayilli section of Shahdagh National Park provides a habitat for bison, buffalo, and other wildlife. Since May 2019, bison have been brought to Azerbaijan from zoos in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Subsequent efforts have also been made to increase their population.
Other species found in Shahdagh National Park include roe deer, wolves, Indian crested porcupines, brown bears, Caucasian chamois, jackals, foxes, rabbits, and red deer. The park welcomes visitors throughout the year, offering opportunities to admire its natural beauty and observe some of its wildlife in their natural habitat.
Discovering the filming locations of “The Stepmother” (Ögey ana)
The Ismayilli section of Shahdagh National Park also holds a special place in Azerbaijan’s film history. Parts of the 1958 film The Stepmother (Ögey ana) were shot here, and the tree beneath which little Ismayil sang “Our Village” continues to evoke one of the film’s most memorable scenes.
The area is an attractive destination for nature lovers seeking to relax outdoors and observe rare wildlife.
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