Garagol State Nature Reserve

Garagol State Nature Reserve is a protected area in the mountains of eastern Azerbaijan featuring diverse ecosystems across approximately 700 meters in elevation. The landscape includes forests, meadows, and a lake ecosystem within this mountainous terrain.

The reserve was established in October 1987 from a joint decision between Azerbaijan and Armenia to create a shared conservation zone. This cooperation reflected the desire of both nations at that time to protect the region together.

Local communities near the reserve maintain traditional practices of environmental stewardship through participation in scientific research and conservation programs.

Visitors should obtain permits before traveling, as access is regulated and facilities remain limited throughout the site. The area is best for nature observation and requires good preparation for mountainous terrain.

The lake within the reserve contains special water conditions that support very few organisms, including certain plankton species and amphipods. These extreme conditions make the lake an interesting research subject for biologists and ecologists.