The Koç Yolu is a historic route along which the residents of Khinalug move their herds between summer and winter pastures during two seasons of the year – spring and autumn. Along this path are ancient cemeteries, sacred shrines, and natural wonders, providing shepherds with both protected sites and natural resources. Every year, thousands of sheep and hundreds of shepherds travel this route, preserving the semi-nomadic cultural traditions passed down through generations.
Among Azerbaijan's natural and cultural riches, the village of Khinalug and its Köç Yolu hold a special place. On September 18, 2023, the nomination area "Khinalug and the Köç Yolu Cultural Landscape" was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This area represents a rare example of the semi-nomadic way of life preserved over centuries.
Semi-nomadic lifestyle and seasonal migrations
The residents of the Khinalug community migrate twice a year between summer and winter pastures. Shepherds, who spend four months in the alpine and subalpine meadows of the Greater Caucasus, live the rest of the year in the winter pastures of the Central Aran region. This seasonal movement is essential not only for livestock management but also for preserving knowledge and traditions passed down through generations.
The summer-winter migrations are a vivid example of the Khinalug residents' adaptation to nature and sustainable resource use. During each migration, shepherds know how to make optimal use of pastures, water sources, and natural resources. This experience has been shaped over millennia and continues to be practiced today.
Winter pastures: Peace and sustainability
Winter pastures are one of the three main components of the semi-nomadic lifestyle for the people of Khinalug. Families spending the winter here keep their livestock in mild climatic conditions and provide them with fresh fodder year-round. Winter pastures are usually located in the regions of Hajigabul, Gobustan, Siyazan, Khizi, and Absheron, each covering an area of 500–1500 hectares. Several shepherds and their families use a winter pasture together, often living in partially underground dugouts.
Summer pastures: Life amidst nature
Summer pastures are equally important in the life of the Khinalug community. Family members spend the warm months here, keeping livestock outdoors and making the most of natural pastures. The boundaries of summer pasturelands have been historically defined and are maintained to meet the needs of large herds. Shepherds sometimes rent summer pastures and, with a few workers, manage and protect the herds.
Migration process and cultural heritage
Each member of a Khinalug semi-nomadic family participates in household work. Men herd the livestock, while women prepare wool products and handle domestic tasks. Along the Köç Yolu, 15–20 km are covered daily, with temporary shelters set up for overnight stays. Depending on the destination, a migration may last 10, 15, or 20 days. Shelters are made of sticks embedded in the ground and covered with waterproof felt.
Ancient cemeteries, sacred shrines, mosques, and other cultural monuments are located along the Köç Yolu. These sites have both historical and religious significance, preserving the cultural heritage of the Khinalug community.
UNESCO recognition
The nomination document for the "Khinalug and the Köç Yolu Cultural Landscape" was submitted under Criteria 3 and 5. These criteria highlight the Khinalug community's semi-nomadic pastoral culture and the harmony between humans and nature. UNESCO's decision confirms the global significance of this unique semi-nomadic lifestyle.
Khinalug and its Köç Yolu are not only a cultural heritage for Azerbaijan but also a rare example of balance between nature and humans. Living here means witnessing knowledge and traditions passed down through millennia.
