Nature & Mountains

Goris is one of the most beautiful and distinct cities in Armenia , located in the Syunik region along the banks of the Vararakn River . It is famous for its unique architecture, characterized by two-story stone houses with arched gateways and ornate wooden balconies. Goris was one of the first Armenian cities to be built according to a master plan in the late 19th century, designed by a German engineer, resulting in a grid of straight, wide streets that is rare for medieva

Khndzoresk is one of Armenia's most extraordinary and memorable destinations, located in the Syunik region near the city of Goris . It is world-renowned for its historic " Old Khndzoresk " settlement, which is a massive ancient cave city carved directly into the volcanic tufa rocks. The Khndzoresk gorge is surrounded by unique geological formations resembling natural pyramids, within which people lived for centuries. According to legend, the name originates from the Armenia

Lori Fortress (10th century) is one of the most significant and well-preserved monuments of Armenian medieval military architecture located in the Lori region near the town of Stepanavan. It was founded by King David Anhoghin (late 10th century) and became the capital of the Tashir-Dzoraget (Lori) Kingdom. The fortress is situated at the confluence of the Dzoraget and Miskhana rivers on the edge of deep canyons making it a naturally impregnable stronghold. 1. Architectural

Lastiver is one of the most mysterious and attractive destinations in Armenia located near the village of Yenokavan in the Tavush region within the lush gorge of the Khachaghbyur River . This place is famous for its dense emerald forests ancient caves and breathtaking waterfalls. The name "Lastiver" originates from the Armenian words "last" (raft) and "i ver" (upward). According to local tradition during the Mongol invasions the local people sought refuge in the high niches

The Azat Reservoir is one of Armenia's most stunning and visually captivating water bodies located in the Ararat region along the lower reaches of the Azat River . Constructed in the 1970s it serves as a vital strategic asset whose waters are primarily used for irrigating the vast orchards and fertile lands of the Ararat Valley . The reservoir is framed by the Yeranos Mountains whose reddish and yellowish hues combined with the deep blue of the water create an otherworldly

Sochut Dendropark is located near the village of Gyulagarak in the Lori region. It was founded in 1931 by Polish botanist Edmond Leonowicz. The park covers about 35 hectares of which 17.5 hectares are natural forest and 15 hectares are plantations. This is the first botanical garden in Armenia where many rare tree species have been tested and acclimatized. The park is especially famous for its healing air particularly in May during the pine pollination season. It is a wonde

Mount Ara is an extinct volcano in Armenia with an elevation of 2577 meters. It is situated between the Kasagh and Hrazdan rivers. The mountain is named after the legendary Armenian King Ara the Beautiful. According to tradition during the war with the Assyrian Queen Semiramis Ara the Beautiful positioned his troops at the foot of this mountain. When viewed from a distance the mountain truly resembles a lying giant or the "Sleeping King." Mount Ara is famous for its rich flor

Jermuk Waterfall is the second highest waterfall in Armenia (68 meters high) and is located in the Vayots Dzor region in the resort town of Jermuk. It flows into the Arpa River gorge creating a stunning sight that resembles transparent hair hanging from the rocks. For this reason people also call it "Mermaid's Hair." According to legend a beautiful princess used to throw her long hair down the cliff every day for her lover to climb up. When her father the king found out he c

One of Armenia's most stunning natural monuments the "Symphony of Stones" is located in the Azat River gorge not far from the Garni Temple . It consists of a massive system of basalt columns formed by the cooling and crystallization of volcanic lava. The columns have a remarkably regular geometric shape and hanging from above they resemble a giant pipe organ from a distance. This natural monument is included in the list of Armenia's specially protected natural areas and is on

Dilijan is one of Armenia's most beautiful and popular resort towns located in the Tavush region. Surrounded by the dense forests and mountains of Dilijan National Park the city is famous for its fresh air and healing mineral waters. Dilijan is also an important cultural and educational hub; it is home to the historic Sharambeyan Street which preserves the old town's charm and the UWC Dilijan International School. Not far from the city lie the gems of Armenian architecture Ha

The Armenian Highlands offer diverse hiking routes for both beginners and professional climbers. Here are the top destinations categorized by difficulty and unique attractions. 1. Mount Aragats (The Highest Peak) Aragats has four peaks offering different levels of challenges: South Peak (3,888m):  The most popular and accessible route. The hike starts from Lake Kari (3,200m) and takes about 3-5 hours. North Peak (4,090m):  The highest and technically most difficult peak requi

Armenia is a land of stunning landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant culture. From the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains to the sun-drenched vineyards of Ararat Valley, this country offers a rich tapestry of experiences. But when is the best time to visit Armenia? Timing your trip right can make all the difference in how much you enjoy this beautiful destination. Let me guide you through the seasons and help you find the perfect moment to explore Armenia’s wonders

Specially Protected Nature Areas (SPNAs) of the Republic of Armenia serve as the pillar of the country's ecological security. They cover around 380,000 hectares and represent the biodiversity hotspots of the Caucasus. This system is divided into three main levels: state reserves national parks and state sanctuaries. 1. State Reserves: The Highest Degree of Inviolability Reserves are scientific research institutions where any human economic activity is prohibited. "Khosrov For

The Armenian Highlands stand as one of the largest centers of prehistoric thought and art in the world. Tens of thousands of rock carvings (petroglyphs) scattered across the high mountains and river valleys of Armenia are "stone libraries" left by our ancestors. These are not merely pictures but ancient information systems reflecting cosmological religious scientific and aesthetic knowledge from the depths of millennia. 1. Geographical Scope: From Mountain Peaks to Canyons A

Armenia is a land of crystal-clear waters and ancient springs. Due to its mountainous landscape, the country serves as a natural reservoir of high-quality freshwater, which is considered the "Blue Gold" of the Armenian Highlands. 1. Natural Mountain Springs and the "Pulpulak" Culture Approximately 96%  of Armenia's drinking water originates from protected underground sources. Pure Origins: Water from the slopes of Mount Aragats and the Geghama Mountains undergoes natural vol

Lake Sevan is the largest freshwater reservoir in the region of Armenia and the Caucasus, ensuring the country's ecological balance. Located at an altitude of approximately 1,900 meters above sea level, this lake is not only an invaluable monument of nature but also one of the symbols of Armenian identity. Geographical and Scientific Description Lake Sevan is distinguished by its impressive size and geographical position: Water Surface:  The surface area of the lake is about

Sevanavank Monastery  is a historic Armenian monastery located on the northwestern shore of Lake Sevan  in Sevan region. Founded in 874 AD by Princess Mariam , it consists of two main churches, Surp Arakelots  and Surp Astvatsatsin , offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors come to admire Armenian medieval architecture , enjoy panoramic scenery, and learn about the spiritual and cultural heritage of Armenia. Sevanavank is not only a place of