CategoriesAzerbaijan By Wandering Souls

The Best Cafes, Tea Houses, and Sheesha Spots in Baku

The Best Cafes, Tea Houses, and Sheesha Spots in Baku

Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, offers a unique blend of European charm and Eastern tradition, where cafés, tea houses, and sheesha lounges play a central role in the city’s social life. For travelers with Wandering Souls, exploring these spots can be the perfect way to unwind after an exciting day of sightseeing or connect with local culture. Whether you’re into tea, coffee, or a relaxing sheesha session, Baku’s café scene is as diverse as the city itself. Here’s a guide to some of the best spots to visit while you’re in town.

 

1. Çay Bağı 145: A Traditional Tea Garden Experience 

Located in Baku’s historic Old City, Çay Bağı 145 is a great place to experience Azerbaijan’s rich tea culture firsthand. As part of Wandering Souls’ exploration of Icherisheher, this serene tea garden is an ideal stop for travelers to unwind and soak in the cultural vibes. Azerbaijani tea, served in traditional pear-shaped glasses, offers a refreshing pause after wandering through the city’s historic landmarks. You can enjoy it alongside local pastries like shekerbura or pakhlava.  

Must-Try: Azerbaijani black tea with lemon and jam, perfect after a day of exploring with your travel group.

2. Nargiz Café: Tea, Sheesha, and More

Just a short walk from Fountain Square, where many Wandering Souls travelers might find themselves after touring the city’s vibrant center, Nargiz Café offers the perfect mix of tea, coffee, and sheesha. With a lively outdoor seating area, it’s a popular spot to kick back and reflect on the day’s adventures. Whether you’re a fan of mint-flavored sheesha or simply want to sip traditional tea, Nargiz Café gives you a taste of Baku’s social life.  

Must-Try: Mint-flavored sheesha paired with strong Azerbaijani tea for a refreshing post-tour break.

3. Sky Bar & Lounge: Modern Vibes with Stunning Views

If your Wandering Souls itinerary brings you to the Baku Boulevard, the Sky Bar & Lounge is the perfect place to cap off your evening. With panoramic views of the Caspian Sea and the city’s modern skyline, this rooftop lounge is a favorite for its blend of cocktails, coffee, and sheesha. As the sun sets over Baku, you and your fellow travelers can relax in style while taking in the city’s glamorous nightlife.  

Must-Try: A pot of green tea with rose-flavored sheesha while enjoying the stunning views with your travel companions.

4. Art Garden: Where Culture Meets Comfort

If you’re with Wandering Souls on a journey through Baku’s Old City, Art Garden makes for a perfect cultural stop. This café combines art, history, and an extensive tea and sheesha menu. The serene, artsy setting is ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring Baku’s museums and ancient streets. With local musicians often performing in the background, Art Garden offers an intimate glimpse into Azerbaijan’s artistic soul.  

Must-Try: Enjoy lemon-flavored sheesha while sipping Azerbaijani tea served with traditional sweets like qutab.

5. Passage 145: Tradition Meets Modernity

Located within the charming lanes of the Old City, Passage 145 offers a warm, rustic environment perfect for travelers with Wandering Souls who seek a blend of tradition and modernity. The café serves both international coffees and traditional Azerbaijani tea, and its relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for group travelers to socialize. With cozy indoor seating and a selection of sheesha flavors, Passage 145 is an inviting stop during your city tour.  

Must-Try: Try pomegranate tea with blueberry-flavored sheesha for a unique fusion of tastes.

6. Chinar: A Contemporary Lounge with Classic Sheesha

For those seeking a more upscale experience, Chinar, located near the Baku Boulevard, is an excellent spot. After a day of sightseeing or wandering through the streets of Baku with your group, this chic lounge offers a stylish atmosphere for an evening of relaxation. Chinar’s luxurious design and carefully curated menu of sheesha, tea, and cocktails make it an ideal setting for travelers looking for a premium experience.  

Must-Try: Rose-flavored sheesha and saffron tea, served on Chinar’s beautiful outdoor terrace.

7. Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant: Dining with History

During a guided tour with Wandering Souls through Baku’s historical gems, make a stop at Shirvanshah Museum Restaurant for an authentic Azerbaijani dining experience. More than just a restaurant, this spot is part museum, offering travelers an immersive journey into the country’s rich heritage. The restaurant also offers traditional tea and sheesha, making it the perfect place to rest after a full day of exploration.  

Must-Try: Saffron tea with classic apple-flavored sheesha to complement the cultural experience.

Last Sip

From traditional tea houses to modern sheesha lounges, Baku offers endless opportunities to relax and enjoy the city’s social scene. As you explore Azerbaijan with Wandering Souls, don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture through these cozy spots. Whether you’re sipping tea after a historic walking tour or winding down with sheesha at a rooftop lounge, Baku’s café culture offers something for every traveler.

CategoriesTreks By Wandering Souls

The Ultimate Guide to Trekking in the Sahyadri During the Monsoon Season

The monsoon season in the Sahyadri range, from June to September, transforms this majestic region into a lush, green paradise. Trekking during the monsoon offers a unique and exhilarating experience, but it requires special preparation and awareness. Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating Sahyadri treks during the rainy season, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure with Wandering Souls

1. Why Trek in the Monsoon?

Verdant Landscapes:The Sahyadri hills are draped in a rich carpet of green during the monsoon, with waterfalls cascading down the hillsides and rivers swelling with rainwater. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful, offering photo opportunities and experiences that are unique to this season.

Cooler Temperatures: The cooler temperatures and humidity levels provide a refreshing contrast to the usual heat of the summer months, making the trek more comfortable.

Enhanced Natural Beauty: The monsoon season brings out the Sahyadri’s natural beauty, with vibrant greenery, lush valleys, and numerous waterfalls. The landscape is transformed into a lush paradise that’s perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

2. Essential Gear for Monsoon Trekking

Waterproof Clothing: Invest in high-quality waterproof clothing to stay dry and comfortable. Brands like Decathlon offer excellent options for waterproof jackets and pants that are durable and affordable. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics that dry quickly and keep you comfortable throughout the trek.

Waterproof Footwear: Trekking in the monsoon means dealing with muddy and slippery trails. Waterproof trekking boots are essential. Look for brands like Action and CTR that provide sturdy, waterproof footwear with good grip and drainage to keep your feet dry and prevent slipping.

Dry Bags and Covers: Protect your gear with waterproof dry bags or covers. Make sure your backpack has a rain cover to keep your belongings dry in case of heavy downpours.

Phone Cover: A waterproof phone cover is crucial to protect your phone from rain and moisture. This will help ensure that you can take photos and stay connected without risking damage to your device.

First Aid Kit: Carry a compact first aid kit equipped with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. It’s important to be prepared for minor injuries or emergencies.

Insect Repellent: The monsoon season often brings an increase in insects, so bring a reliable insect repellent to avoid bites and stings.

High-Energy Snacks: Pack high-energy snacks like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit. These will help you maintain energy levels and keep you fueled throughout the trek.

3. Safety Precautions

Go with Experienced Trek Organizers: Navigating Sahyadri treks during the monsoon can be challenging. It’s crucial to trek with knowledgeable guides and experienced organizers. Wandering Souls, renowned for their expertise in Sahyadri treks, ensures that you are well-prepared for the unique challenges of the monsoon season. Their local guides offer invaluable insights into trail conditions, safety protocols, and enriching trekking experiences.

Check Weather Forecasts: Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid trekking during heavy rainfall or severe weather warnings.

Hydrate and Snack Wisely: Carry sufficient water and high-energy snacks. The increased humidity can make you sweat more, so staying hydrated is crucial.

4. Top Monsoon Treks in the Sahyadri

Andharban: Known for its dense forests and stunning views, Andharban is a popular monsoon trek. The trail is lush and green, with mist-covered landscapes and serene surroundings that are perfect for a refreshing monsoon adventure. Join Wandering Souls for a guided trek to fully experience Andharban’s beauty.

Aadrai: A challenging trek, Aadrai offers a thrilling experience with its rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery. The monsoon enhances its beauty, with vibrant greenery and cascading waterfalls along the way. Wandering Souls can provide expert guidance to navigate this demanding trail safely.

Garbett Plateau: The Garbett Plateau trek provides spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and hills. During the monsoon, the plateau is covered in a blanket of green, and the cool, misty weather adds to the charm of this trek. Explore Garbett Plateau with Wandering Souls for a memorable experience.

Naneghat: Known for its historical significance and stunning views, Naneghat is a great monsoon trek. The ancient trade route is lush and vibrant during the rains, offering trekkers an immersive natural experience and reverse waterfall. Trek with Wandering Souls to gain deeper insights into Naneghat’s rich history and natural beauty.

Sagargad: This trek takes you to the top of Sagargad, offering panoramic views of the Konkan coast and the Sahyadri range. The monsoon rains bring out the rich green hues of the landscape and even Siddheswar waterfall comes alive, making it a captivating trek. Experience Sagargad with Wandering Souls for an expertly guided adventure.

5. Post-Trek Care

Dry Your Gear: After the trek, ensure all your gear is thoroughly dried to prevent mold and mildew. Clean and dry your footwear and store your gear in a dry place.

Check for Leaks: Examine your waterproof gear for any leaks or damages. Repair or replace any damaged items before your next trek.

Rest and Recover: Monsoon treks can be physically demanding, so take time to rest and recover. Hydrate well and nourish your body with healthy food.

Conclusion

Trekking in the Sahyadri during the monsoon season is an adventure filled with lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and a unique sense of tranquility. With the right preparation and precautions, and by choosing experienced trek organizers like Wandering Souls, you can make the most of this magical season while staying safe and comfortable. Embrace the rain, enjoy the beauty, and let the monsoon adventure with Wandering Souls begin!

Fireflies festival-1
CategoriesFirefly Festival By Wandering Souls

5 reasons to attend firefly festival in Maharashtra

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now.

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