Prospects for Tourism Development in Mountainous Regions of Azerbaijan (the Upper -Karabakh and Kelbajar-Lachin Economic-Geographical Areas Are Examples)

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to analyze the prospects for tourism development in the mountain regions of Azerbaijan, taking into account the legislative framework of tourism in the republic and the state programs for socio-economic development of economic and geographical areas. Materials and methods. The research of tourism development opportunities in two economic-geographical areas, the Upper Karabakh and Kelbajar-Lachin regions of Azerbaijan, has been conducted. Considering the role of tourism organisation in the overall socio-economic development of the country's economy, the most promising types of tourism in the regions under study have been investigated. In addition, monuments of global and national importance as the basis for historical and cultural tourism, as well as caves of speleotourism, mineral springs of therapeutic value, nature reserves and nature sanctuaries for ecotourism have been studied. Results and discussion. Based on the legislative framework of tourism in Azerbaijan and the state programs on socio-economic development of economic and geographical areas, it is determined that the primary aim of the state is the restoration of modern tourism infrastructure. The state of the caves, the results of monitoring of restored infrastructure facilities, as well as the planned works were analyzed. Natural factors, including forms of relief, which are the basis of tourism development and determine the degree of favorability of the territory, were studied. Conclusions. Considering the important role of transport in tourism development, construction and reconstruction work in this sector with state participation is presented. The proposed conclusions can be used for economic purposes and in the socio-economic development programmes of the country's regions.