Scenic Trail to Galakhudat Village

This gentle route to the neighboring village of Galakhudat is ideal for those seeking a leisurely walk. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with an information board for the Galakhudat-Griz trail at the end. Begin by crossing a small river and ascending a gentle uphill path for 800m. From here, continue straight along the main road instead of taking the left turn towards Mount Gizilgaya. After approximately 6km, you’ll reach a small mountain pass with a view of Bostankesh village to the right. At the top of the pass, Galakhudat village becomes visible below steep cliffs to the left. Follow the signs leading to the village center.

The trail is accessible year-round, but May to July offers vibrant green landscapes, while December to February highlights stunning snowy mountains. Always check the weather forecast beforehand, as fog, rain, or snow can make the trail more challenging. Between May and September, be mindful of shepherd dogs near the flat area before the mountain pass and seek the shepherd's assistance if needed.

There are no cafes or restaurants in either village, though Khinalig has a small tea house. Both Galakhudat and Khinalig offer guesthouses with meals and lodging. Accommodation locations can be found on the map.

The only spring on this route is at the trail’s start in Khinalig. While Galakhudat village lacks springs directly on the trail, locals are usually happy to provide water. Carry 1.5-2 liters of water per person, particularly in hot weather. A small river along the trail provides drinkable water, but avoid it on rainy days when it becomes murky or during summer, as it may be used for livestock.

No special permission is required to hike this trail, as it does not pass through protected nature reserves or border zones.