Naftalan – Azerbaijan’s Unique Healing Resort with Medicinal Oil
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20 May 2025
Naftalan is a one-of-a-kind health resort town in Azerbaijan, located about 360 km west of Baku and just 48 km from Ganja, the country’s second-largest city. Set along the scenic Naftalan River, the town is globally renowned for its medicinal oil — Naftalan oil, which has no analogues in the world.
🛢️ The Healing Oil of Naftalan
The therapeutic properties of Naftalan oil have been known for over a century. In 1926, scientific studies began with the opening of a dedicated laboratory to examine its chemical composition and health benefits. Since then, Naftalan oil therapy has been used in medical treatments, especially for:
Joint and musculoskeletal disorders
Skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis)
Urological diseases
Gynecological problems
Patients take warm Naftalan oil baths under medical supervision, often combined with physiotherapy, massage, and rehabilitation programs.
🏥 History and Development of Naftalan Resort
The first health spa in Naftalan opened in 1926. By 1982, the town was officially recognized as a balneological health resort. Since then, its popularity has steadily increased, attracting health tourists from CIS countries, Turkey, the Middle East, and Europe.
🏨 Top Naftalan Health Resorts and Hotels
Today, Naftalan offers modern wellness infrastructure, combining traditional natural therapies with advanced medical care. Several renowned sanatorium-resorts operate in the town:
⭐ Garabag Spa & Resort Hotel
A luxurious medical wellness complex offering personalized treatment plans and a full range of diagnostic services.
⭐ Chinar Hotel & Spa Naftalan
Known for its cozy environment, exceptional hospitality, and customized therapeutic programs using Naftalan oil.
⭐ Gashalti Health Hotel
One of the largest and most comfortable health resorts in the region, offering comprehensive medical care and high-end amenities.
All resorts in Naftalan offer:
Full diagnostics and Naftalan-based therapies
Post-operative recovery programs
Dietary and traditional Azerbaijani cuisine
Spa services, indoor pools, fitness centers, and leisure activities
🌳 What to See and Do in Naftalan
In addition to health treatments, visitors can enjoy the town’s relaxing atmosphere and explore local attractions:
Naftalan Cultural Park – with walking paths, fountains, and peaceful gardens
Naftalan Oil Museum – learn about the history and healing properties of this rare oil
Excursions to Ganja, Kapaz Mountains, and other scenic parts of western Azerbaijan
🚗 How to Get to Naftalan
Getting to Naftalan is easy and convenient from major Azerbaijani cities:
From Baku: by train or car (approximately 4–5 hours travel time)
From Ganja: by taxi or hotel transfer (less than 1 hour)
Private transfers are available from most resorts when booking treatment packages in advance
💡 Travel Tips for Naftalan Visitors
The ideal seasons to visit are spring and autumn, offering mild and pleasant weather.
Visa requirements: Check Azerbaijan’s e-visa program
Language: Azerbaijani is official, but Russian and English are often spoken in resorts
Currency: Azerbaijani manat (AZN)
🌍 Why Choose Naftalan?
If you’re looking for a unique wellness destination that combines natural healing, cultural heritage, and modern hospitality, Naftalan is the perfect choice. With its rare medicinal oil, professional care, and peaceful surroundings, Naftalan stands out as one of the best health resorts in Azerbaijan — and the world.
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