Hiking to Bash Goynuk: An Adventurous Journey Through Nature

The trek to Bash Goynuk village is a physically demanding adventure, characterized by steep ascents, descents, and long distances. From the starting point, follow the marked signs through the village neighborhoods until the trail begins 400 meters ahead. The initial section takes you up a steep, winding forest path that transitions into an open area with forested valleys on either side after 2 kilometers. Another 2 kilometers of hiking brings you above the tree line, leading to a stunning mountain ascent.

At the mountain summit, continue 600 meters across a flat plain before taking the trail to the right. From here, the route descends through a narrow forest strip, winding along steep slopes. After 1 kilometer, the trail opens into a flatter area and follows the ridge before turning into a wider, steeper path. Upon reaching a gorge 700 meters ahead, turn left to descend further. Passing a shepherd hut, the trail transitions into a forest track, and after 6 kilometers, you cross a river and arrive at the village of Bash Goynuk.

For a more manageable experience, it is recommended to hike this route in reverse, starting at Bash Goynuk.

You can connect Bash Goynuk to Gumukh village by car or on foot (7 km) via the marked Gumukh-Gashgachay and Gashgachay-Ilisu trails. Combining these routes enables a multi-day trek through the mountains, linking Sheki and Gakh districts. Beyond Ilisu, the terrain enters the Ilisu State Nature Reserve and border control areas. A two-day trek from Ilisu to Gum or Lakit Kotuklu village is possible with sufficient experience, proper maps, and camping equipment, though this is best done in summer.

During this period, you may encounter shepherd huts where you can seek shelter or information. However, caution is advised around shepherd dogs.

In winter, spring, and autumn, the route demands extra preparation due to shorter days and colder weather. Completing the hike in a single day during winter is particularly risky without camping gear such as tents and sleeping bags.

Both starting and endpoint villages have small shops, cafes, and restaurants. For overnight stays, guesthouses, hotels, and other accommodations are available.

There is only one spring along the route, located near the shepherd hut at the end of the Bash Goynuk gorge. Since water sources are limited, hikers are advised to carry 1.5-2 liters of water.

No special permissions are required to hike this trail. The route does not cross protected areas or border control zones, and there are no permanent border guard posts. However, if encountered, hikers should carry identification and be prepared to explain their planned route.