Jidyr Düzü (Horse Racing Plain)

Jidyr Düzü is a natural plateau on the southern edge of Shusha, perched at the upper rim of the Gargarchay Canyon. The plateau is an open grassy expanse surrounded by the rocky escarpments of the Karabakh highlands, with panoramic views in every direction. It is considered one of the most beautiful natural viewpoints in Azerbaijan.

The plateau has been a gathering place for centuries — for horse racing, picnics, the annual Khari Bulbul music festival, and simply for the view. The Khari Bulbul festival, named after an orchid that grows in the region, celebrates Azerbaijani music and culture and has been revived since the city's return to Azerbaijani control. The walk out to the plateau from the old city takes about twenty minutes and the views of the canyon and surrounding mountains are outstanding.

things to do sight nature
A story
Jidyr Düzü literally means "horse racing field" — the plateau has been the site of traditional equestrian competitions since the era of the Karabakh Khanate. The Karabakh horse, one of the oldest breeds in the world and celebrated for its speed and endurance, was bred in the surrounding valleys and raced on this plateau. The Karabakh horse nearly went extinct during the conflict years; breeding programmes in Azerbaijan have been working to restore numbers.