Ilisu

İlisu

Each region Azerbaijan has its own highlight. In Gakh, this is undoubtedly the mountain village of Ilisu. 

Ilisu is one of the ancient villages of Azerbaijan, located at the intersection of the rivers Kyurmyukchay and Agchay in a beautiful place surrounded by mountains and forests, 12 kilometers from the city of Gakh. In ancient times, most of the population of Ilisu was artisans. Each clan was engaged in a specific craft, which was transmitted from generation to generation. Near the village are healing mineral springs. In the Ilisu reserve there are bears, mountain goats, wolves, wild cats, wild boars, jackals and other animals.

Galacha Fortress

Galacha Fortress popularly known as the fortress of Shamil. It got its name from the famous leader of the highlanders of the Caucasus  Imam Sheikh Shamil, with whom the local population maintained relations. The tower was built on a high mountain - this made it possible to observe all the roads leading to Ilisu. There are loopholes around the castle for observation and shooting. Alas, today the fortress of Shamil is in a dilapidated state, which, however, does not reduce its historical significance. For those who want to conquer the top of Mount Jezlidag, it is worth remembering that climbing is not an easy task, since it is not possible to get there by car.

Sumug Gala

Arriving in Ilisu, the Sumug Gala Fortress (XVIIth century) is simply impossible not to notice, because it is located on a small hill with a stunning view of the kilometers around. A defensive structure around the perimeter is surrounded by a low fence. The top of the tower is framed by battlements. The road leading to Sumug Gala is paved with paving stones. Today, inside the fortress there is a branch of the Gakh History Museum and Local Lore under the name "History of the Ilisu Sultanate." There are a number of considerations related to the name of the tower. According to legend, the tower was built by the Ilisu ruler Sumu Khan. The Sumug Gala is also known throughout the former USSR for the film "Don’t Be Afraid, I am with You". In this musical adventure film, which was directed by Julius Guzman, stars of Soviet pop and film such as Polad Bul-Bul Ogly and Lev Durov starred.

Ram Rama Waterfall

Ram-Rama Waterfall is considered the highest waterfall in Azerbaijan (75 meters high), because it descends from a high cliff, and the village of Ilisu is located at an altitude of 1400-1600 m above sea level. It would be interesting to see what the waterfall looks like in winter, in what light it appears before its guests. The location of Ram-Ram itself is already of interest, because it is surrounded by centuries-old dense forests, where it breathes differently due to the clean mountain air. In its splendor, Ram-Rama Falls can rightfully be considered one of the most beautiful natural phenomena in Azerbaijan.