Jar – Shamilovka trail

Start point: Jar village (900 m)
End point: Shamilovka (1860 m)
Distance: 7.1 km
Ascend: 1050 m
Descend: 140 m
Duration: 5 hours

Shamilovka (Şamilovka) or Honzogar pass (Honzoqar) is a large plateau in Zagatala district (Zaqatala) covering subalpine and alpine meadows at 1700 m to 2500 m above sea level. The Katekh River (Katex) flows through a picturesque valley lying below and covered with dense forests. Lofty peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains – Mount Guton (Qutondağ, 3648 m) and Mount Gudur (Qudurdağ, 3087 m) overlook the plateau. There are several houses in the plateau and semi-nomadic locals still spend summer months in this pasture with their large sheep flocks. Many old grave sites in Shamilovka are a testimony to deep roots and ancient history of nomadic culture in this area.
The proposed hiking trail starts at Jar village (Car) in the northern section of Zagatala district. The village is located in the piedmont of the Great Caucasus Mountains. There is a historic mosque and old defence towers in Jar. Local population is over 3,000 and engage in agriculture, mainly cultivating tobacco, nuts, fruit and vegetables, as well as animal husbandry.
The route to Shamilovka is mostly uphill, and in some parts it goes through steep mountain slopes. It is not possible to go and come back in one day and you should spend at least one night in a tent at campsite. Shamilovka is ideal for camping. Natural springs can provide fresh drinking water to hikers. The shepherds are very friendly and can offer you something to eat. If you do not have experience of dealing with shepherd dogs, you must call the shepherd in time and ask for help. The next day you may go to Gabizdara village (Qəbizdərə) or return to Jar.