Lankaran, an appealing town in southeast Azerbaijan, is located between the Caspian Sea and the Talysh Mountains. This subtropical zone features abundant greenery, tea plantations, and citrus groves, forming an attractive backdrop for visitors.

The town's extensive past is evident in its buildings, with sites like the Lankaran Fortress and Kichik Bazar mosque displaying a mix of Persian and Azerbaijani styles. Lankaran's financial base relies on farming, fishing, and an increasing tourism industry.

• Lankaran combines Azerbaijani and Iranian food traditions
• The area is recognized for its tea farms and citrus orchards
• Regional favorites include lavangi, plov, and various fish dishes

What's on the menu in Lankaran

Lankaran's food scene mixes Azerbaijani and Iranian tastes, with plenty of seafood thanks to its seaside spot. The warm climate means you'll find lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in local recipes.

A standout in Lankaran's cuisine is lavangi, a filled chicken or fish dish that's sure to impress. It's stuffed with a blend of walnuts, onions, and sometimes raisins or plums. It's worth visiting just to try this!

Tea is a big thing here. Lankaran is famous for its tea farms, so you'll want to try some local brews. It's usually served in small, pear-shaped glasses called armudu.

What's the town's signature dish

Let's chat about plov, a key dish in Azerbaijani cooking. In Lankaran, you'll come across a special type called Shirin plov. It's a sweet and savory rice dish with dried fruits and sometimes meat. It's like a flavor festival in your mouth!

If you like seafood, you're in luck. Being right on the Caspian Sea, Lankaran has some great fish dishes. Try the kutum, a local white fish that's often grilled or stuffed.

For those who prefer veggies, badimcan dolmasi is a must-try. It's eggplant filled with a mix of vegetables and sometimes meat. It's like a tasty surprise wrapped in eggplant skin!

Where to eat

Lankaran's food options are more about local spots than fancy eateries. Here are some places to check out:

1. Lankaran Springs Wellness Resort: It's a bit upscale, but they serve some great local dishes in a nice setting.
2. Lankaran Bazaar: For a real local experience, visit the bazaar. You can taste fresh produce and local snacks.
3. Mayak Beach: Go to the beach for some fresh seafood at one of the casual restaurants.

How much will it cost

Lankaran is pretty easy on the wallet. Here's a rough idea of what you might pay:

Meal at a local restaurant: 5-10 AZN
Cup of tea: 1-2 AZN
Lavangi dish: 8-15 AZN

Keep in mind, 1 AZN is about 0.59 USD. So, you can enjoy great food without spending too much!

When should you visit

Lankaran has a subtropical climate, meaning mild winters and hot summers. For the best food experience, I'd recommend late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October).

During these times, you'll see the tea harvest and enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables. Plus, the weather's just right for walking around the town and seeing the nearby nature.

How to travel there and get around

Getting to Lankaran is pretty simple. You can take a train from Baku, which takes about 6-7 hours. There's also a small airport if you'd rather fly.

Once you're in Lankaran, it's easy to walk around or use taxis. For trips to nearby attractions, you might want to rent a car or join a tour.

What else can you do besides eating

While food is a big attraction, Lankaran has other things to offer:

• See the Hirkan National Park for some nature time
• Visit the Lankaran Fortress for a bit of history
• Relax on Mayak Beach by the Caspian Sea
• Take a tour of a tea plantation

Are there any food events

Lankaran likes to show off its food! The town hosts a yearly Tea, Rice, and Citrus Festival in late fall. It's a great chance to try local foods and watch some cultural shows.

There's also a Pomegranate Festival in October in nearby Goychay. It's worth a day trip if you're in Lankaran around that time.

What food items can you take home

Don't leave Lankaran without some tasty reminders! Here are some food souvenirs to bring back:

• Local tea
• Citrus fruits (if allowed through customs)
• Jams and preserves
• Spices used in local cooking

Closing thoughts

Lankaran might not be on every traveler's list, but for food fans, it's a great find. From the unique lavangi to the aromatic teas, there's so much to taste and experience.

So, bring your appetite and come to this charming Azerbaijani town. Your taste buds will be happy you did!

FAQs

Is Lankaran okay for tourists to visit?

Yes, Lankaran is usually seen as fine for tourists. As with any trip, it's always good to be careful and pay attention to what's going on around you.

Do I need special papers to visit Lankaran?

Most people visiting Azerbaijan, including Lankaran, need a visa. But many countries can get an e-visa, which you can easily apply for online before your trip.

Can I get by with English in Lankaran?

English isn't as common in Lankaran as in Baku. But you'll find English speakers in hotels and some restaurants. Learning a few basic phrases in Azerbaijani can be helpful.