Gabala Cable Car & Tufandag Resort Station

Gabala Cable Car Tufandag Resort Station

The crown jewel of Azerbaijan’s tourism

At the heart of Gabala’s tourism boom stands the Tufandag Mountain Resort, best known for its cable car system that lifts visitors high into the Caucasus. A few kilometers from Gabala city center, the resort offers year-round experiences: skiing in winter, hiking in summer, and spectacular aerial views in every season.

The Tufandag cable car is not only transport — it is an attraction in itself. With one of the longest gondola routes in the Caucasus, travelers glide above forests, mountain ridges, and valleys, reaching nearly 2,000 meters above sea level.

The Gabala Cable Car & Tufandag Mountain Resort — where alpine adventure meets world-class infrastructure. Whether skiing down winter slopes, flying above autumn forests, or hiking in summer breezes, every ride reveals a new side of Gabala’s beauty.

History & Ecology

The Tufandag Mountain Resort project was launched in the early 2010s as part of Azerbaijan’s national tourism development strategy. Built with modern standards, it transformed Gabala into a four-season destination, comparable to European alpine resorts.

The cable car lines were designed to provide both winter ski access and summer sightseeing. Since its opening, the system has become a highlight of Gabala tourism, drawing thousands of local and international visitors each year.

The resort lies within the Shaki-Zagatala economic region, noted for biodiversity and forested mountains. Slopes around Tufandag are covered with oak, hornbeam, and beech forests, supporting birdlife and small mammals.

As one of Azerbaijan’s major alpine resorts, Tufandag is subject to environmental management policies to protect mountain ecosystems while expanding tourism.

Geography & Resort Layout

Location: ~5 km from Gabala city center, in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus.
Elevation: Cable cars rise from ~900 m to ~1,920 m above sea level.
Cable Car Length: Over 12 km of combined gondola lines, making it one of the longest cable car networks in the South Caucasus.
Stations: Multiple base, intermediate, and summit stations with restaurants, rest areas, and viewing platforms.
Views: Panoramas of Gabala, Nohur Lake in the distance, and snow-covered Caucasus peaks.

Seasonal Character

Winter (Dec–Mar): Skiing and snowboarding on prepared slopes.
Spring (Apr–May): Mild climate, blooming mountain flora, ideal for sightseeing.
Summer (Jun–Sep): Hiking, mountain biking, zipline, and paragliding.
Autumn (Oct–Nov): Vibrant foliage makes cable car rides especially scenic.

Cultural & Practical Importance

Tourism Hub: A showcase of Azerbaijan’s growing winter-summer tourism.
Economic Value: Provides local jobs in hospitality, guiding, ski instruction, and dining.
Cultural Symbol: The cable car is often featured in travel promotions as a modern icon of Gabala.

Things to Do at Tufandag Resort

Cable Car Rides – Panoramic gondola journeys across multiple stations.
Skiing & Snowboarding – Slopes for beginners, intermediates, and professionals.
Summer Hiking & Mountain Biking – Trails through alpine meadows and forests.
Zipline & Paragliding – Adventure sports for thrill-seekers.
Dining with Views – Restaurants at stations with terraces overlooking the Caucasus.
Photography – Seasonal scenery: snowy peaks, autumn forests, summer greenery.

Visitor Information

Location: ~5 km from Gabala city center.
Opening: Open year-round (ski season: December–March).
Facilities: Ski schools, rental shops, hotels, cafés, restaurants, parking.
Cable Car Tickets (2024–2025 official rates):

- Adults: ~25–30 AZN (full route, round trip).

- Children: ~15 AZN. Seasonal packages available for skiing and multi-day use.

Best Time to Visit: Winter for skiing, autumn for foliage, summer for cool mountain air.
Duration of Visit: Half-day to full-day recommended.

(Ticket prices from official Tufandag Resort website tufandag.az — subject to seasonal changes.)

Nearby Attractions

Related tours to Gabala Cable Car Tufandag Resort Station

Frequently Asked Questions about Tufandag Cable Car

Where is the Gabala Cable Car Resort Station located in Azerbaijan?

The Gabala Cable Car Resort Station is situated in the town of Gabala in the northwestern part of Azerbaijan.

What is the main attraction at the Gabala Cable Car Resort Station?

The main attraction is the cable car itself, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, mountains, and the town of Gabala.

How long is the cable car ride, and what are the views like during the journey?

The cable car ride provides stunning panoramic views and typically lasts around 20-30 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of Gabala and its surroundings.

Are there multiple cable car routes, or does it have a specific destination?

The cable car may have different routes or stops. Some cable cars operate as a means of transportation, while others may lead to specific viewpoints or recreational areas.

Are there any activities or attractions at the upper station of the cable car?

The upper station may feature attractions such as cafes, observation decks, or recreational areas, providing visitors with additional amenities and opportunities to relax.

What is the best time to take the cable car for optimal views and weather conditions?

The cable car can be enjoyed at various times, but late spring to early autumn often provides clear skies and pleasant weather, enhancing the overall experience.

Is there an age or health restriction for using the cable car?

Cable cars are generally suitable for people of all ages. However, individuals with certain health conditions should check with the operators for any specific restrictions.

Can I purchase tickets for the cable car ride online in advance?

The cable car fee is 19 AZN for adults, 10 AZN for children. Depending on the facilities available, online ticket purchases may be an option. It's advisable to check with the cable car station for the latest information on ticketing.

Is the cable car operational year-round, or are there seasonal closures?

Cable car operations may vary, and some cable cars operate year-round, while others may have seasonal closures. Check the schedule and operational status before planning a visit.

Are there any special events or festivals held at the Gabala Cable Car Resort Station?

Events and festivals may be organized at the Gabala Cable Car Resort Station, providing additional entertainment and cultural experiences for visitors.

Sources / References

Azerbaijan Tourism Board – Official promotion of Tufandag Resort (azerbaijan.travel)
Gabala Executive Authority – Regional tourism development data (qebele-ih.gov.az)
Wikipedia – Tufandag Mountain Resort (en.wikipedia.org)
Official Website – Tufandag Mountain Resort (tufandag.az, for ticket rates & facilities)
AzerNews / Trend – News reports on Gabala tourism and ski seasons