On September 25-26, the State Tourism Agency organized a media tour for nearly 50 media representatives to the "Khinaliq and Migration Route" State Historical-Cultural and Ethnographic Reserve.
The purpose of the media tour was to introduce journalists to the Khinaliq and Migration Route cultural landscape, which has been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, and to inform the public about the benefits of this designation and its impact on tourism potential.
During the tour, details were provided about ongoing works within the newly established reserve, including restoration and renovation efforts in the Khinaliq village area.
The event highlighted that the Khinaliq and Migration Route area is considered not only a part of our national heritage but also a significant cultural asset for all humanity. It was noted that inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage List would help raise global awareness of Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage and strengthen Azerbaijan's position in the world of cultural tourism. The event also emphasized that this important milestone would contribute to realizing the area's tourism potential. Thanks to the rich cultural tourism resources within the reserve, unique cultural and nature tourism products for the regional tourism market can be developed, fostering self-employment opportunities in tourism for the villages and settlements along the migration route.
It was noted that UNESCO’s decision would significantly contribute to the recognition of the nomadic culture of Khinaliq residents and the preservation of material and intangible cultural heritage examples along the Migration Route.
Furthermore, the creation of the "Khinaliq and Migration Route" State Historical-Cultural and Ethnographic Reserve will support the development of ecotourism in summer pastures, winter pastures, and seasonal migration routes, promoting the growth of tourism industries such as camping and hiking.
During the media tour, information was also provided about ongoing restoration and renovation efforts aimed at preserving our cultural and historical heritage and improving tourism infrastructure within the reserve.
Additionally, under the joint "Support for Sustainable Tourism Development in Azerbaijan’s Regions" project, implemented by the State Tourism Agency and the UN Development Programme, 16 local entrepreneurs in Khinaliq who provide guesthouse services were given water heaters, stoves, and gas cookers.
It is noteworthy that on September 18, at the 45th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, the "Khinaliq and Migration Route Cultural Landscape" was officially added to the World Heritage List. On September 4, the President of Azerbaijan issued a decree establishing the "Khinaliq and Migration Route" State Historical-Cultural and Ethnographic Reserve under the State Tourism Agency. The new reserve encompasses the village of Khinaliq and the Migration Route, which spans over 200 kilometers and passes through six districts.
