GUSAR

Gusar – The Northern Gateway of Azerbaijan

Location

• Gusar District is located in the northeast of Azerbaijan, at the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains.

• It borders the Russian Federation, which is why it is often called the “Northern Gateway” of the country.

• The area is mostly mountainous and covered with forests.

• The main river of the district is the Qusar River.

History:

• Gusar has been inhabited since ancient times by various tribes.

• In the 18th century, it was part of the Guba Khanate.

• The majority of the population consists of Lezgins, whose rich folklore, music, and cuisine play an important role in the cultural life of the district.

Nature

Gusar is famous for its natural beauty and great tourism opportunities:

• Shahdag National Park – home to rare species of flora and fauna.

•  Shahdag Tourism Complex – one of the largest winter-summer resorts in the South Caucasus, offering skiing, hiking, horseback riding, paragliding, and other activities.

•  Laza Village – located 1,300 meters above sea level, it is a popular destination for mountain hiking and eco-tourism.

•  Qusarçay Valley – known for its scenic views and fresh air.

•  Chilegir Forests – a beautiful spot for picnics and outdoor recreation.

Culture and Tourism

• Gusar is rich in Lezgin cultural heritage, including national dances, musical instruments (zurna, garmon), and traditional clothing, all of which attract tourists.

• Various folklore festivals are held in the district.

• Local cuisine is especially famous for dishes such as Lezgi khinkal, surhullu, tandir bread, and other traditional meals.

• The city of Qusar also has museums, cultural centers, and historical monuments.

Economy

• The main occupation of the population is agriculture, including grain growing, livestock breeding, and horticulture.

• In recent years, tourism has developed rapidly, becoming one of the main sources of income for the region.

  Gusar stands out with both its mountainous landscapes and rich Lezgin culture. With the Shahdag resort, ancient villages, waterfalls, and traditional cuisine, it is one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in Azerbaijan.