Besh Barmag — The "Five Fingers" Mountain North of Baku
A rock that looks like five fingers has long been a place of pilgrimage. Here is how to climb Besh Barmag and what to see on the way.
On the road from Baku to Quba, about 90 km from the capital, a rocky peak rises above the highway. Besh Barmag means "five fingers" — the shape of its ridge when seen from the sea.
A sacred place
Many legends surround the mountain. Some call it the mountain of the prophet Elijah, others link it to the prophet Khidr. Locals believe the summit grants wishes, so pilgrims come all year to tie ribbons, leave notes and toss coins.
Part of a medieval defensive wall once ran below the rock, closing the narrow passage between the mountains and the sea.
The climb
A path with stone steps and handrails on the steep parts leads to the top. Allow 30–60 minutes. From above you see the Caspian and the coastal plain.
Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip.
- It is a place of worship: dress modestly and keep your voice down.
- A stop here fits easily into a trip to Quba, Khinalug or the Shahdag resort.
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