Places to Go

Ararat

What Awaits in Ararat

Ararat holds a special place in the hearts and minds of local people and Armenians around the world. As you travel through the region, you’ll quickly realize why.

Beautiful orchards, where delicious local fruits such as apricots, peaches, pears, apples, plums, and mulberries are grown, seem to extend endlessly in all directions. Orchards are the symbols of the Ararat region.

You can witness this yourself while driving towards the south along the highway that is decorated with vast apricot and peach orchards on both sides.

Along the way, you can stop by small seasonal stalls that burst with a variety of colorful, sun-bathed fruits and their dried variants, jams, and more. These orchards give way to ancient monasteries and fortresses, where mysteries of the past wait to be discovered, as well as to modern wineries, where some of Armenia’s finest wines are being made, waiting to be tasted.

Above all this stands the mighty Mount Ararat at 5,137 meters above sea level. Though not within Armenia’s borders today, the mountain remains a symbol of Armenian identity, and indeed these two snow-capped peaks look beautiful from Armenia.

Quick info about Ararat

Agriculture

Today, the Ararat Valley yields 40% of the country’s agricultural output despite making up just 4% of total land area. Armenia’s fruits and vegetables are exceptionally flavorful due to the rich volcanic soil, abundant sunshine (averaging 300 days per year), and ample water from snowmelt and natural underground wells.

Natural reserves

The region is also home to one of the oldest nature reserves in the world - the Khosrov Forest State Reserve, founded in the fourth century!

Fruits and vegetables

Armenia’s fruits and vegetables are exceptionally flavorful due to the rich volcanic soil, abundant sunshine (averaging 300 days per year), and ample water from snowmelt and natural underground wells.

Vineyards

In Ararat you’ll find beautiful fruit orchards and vineyards, where it is said that Noah himself planted the first grapevine upon descending from Mount Ararat, where the Ark landed following the Great Flood of the Bible.

Culture

As the center of Armenian life for millennia, Ararat offers a whole lot of culture for travelers to see, feel, hear, taste, and smell. From the ruins of once mighty capitals and fortresses to mouthwatering local dishes cooked just the way they have for thousands of years, to some of the country’s best wineries and excellent hiking trails, there’s no shortage of things to do for every type of traveler.

Tangible Cultural Heritage

Ararat is home to several significant historical and cultural sites that represent defining moments in Armenian history and are must-visits when in Armenia. These monuments have stood the test of time and stand beautifully today for visitors to explore.

Khor Virap Monastery

This monastery is an important pilgrimage site and the closest you can get to Mount Ararat while in Armenia. Aside from stunning views of the mountain on a clear day, Khor Virap is where in the 3rd century, the Armenian King Trdat III imprisoned his confidant and assistant Gregory for practicing Christianity and refusing to worship the pagan gods. The name “Khor Virap”, meaning “deep pit” in Armenian, accurately portrays the pit where Gregory endured 14 years of imprisonment for his steadfast Christian faith – a site that remains open for visitors to explore today. According to legend, Gregory miraculously survived his time in the pit thanks to a devout Christian woman who was instructed by God to sneak food to him.

Dvin City Ruins

Officially called the Dvin Capital Historical and Cultural Reserve, this is an active archaeological site that you can visit and see the foundations of many ancient structures that once made up one of Armenia’s ancient capital cities. Dvin was a large commercial city and the capital of early medieval Armenia, boasting a population of about 100,000 people at its height. Though only the foundations of buildings remain today, visiting this site is still worthwhile to understand the significance of the ruins and the history they represent. Various expeditions from different countries are constantly coming to excavate the multi-layered cultural zones. This is an exceptional site for archaeological tourism.

Vishapakars

Vishapakars, [vee-shah-pah-kahr] or “dragon stones”, which date back to the 2nd millennium BCE, are prehistoric stone monoliths found in large numbers in the Armenian Highlands, near natural and artificial lakes, rivers, springs, and other sources of water. Typically, Vishapakars stand between one to five meters in height and are made from one piece of local basalt curved into cigar-like shapes with fish or bull heads. These mythical creatures are vishaps [vee-shap], or dragons, according to Armenian folklore, that protect water and symbolize fertility. The vishapakars in Armenia are situated specifically in the Gegham Mountain Range (southwestern part of which is within the borders of Ararat region).

Artashat City Ruins

Not to be confused with the modern city of Artashat, the ruins of the ancient Armenian capital by the same name are located at the site of Khor Virap Monastery. Founded in the 2nd century by King Artashes I, the founder of Armenia’s Artashesian dynasty, this historic city stood atop twelve prominent hills. Archaeological excavations have revealed remnants of a pagan temple, the city’s citadel, a bustling market square, and a customs house, among other structures. Notably, sophisticated systems for drinking water supply and drainage were uncovered across various sectors of the city. Artashat endured cycles of destruction and reconstruction throughout the 1st to the 5th centuries, before finally being abandoned.

Aghjots Monastery

Also known as the Saint Stephen Monastery of Goght, this is a 13th-century monastery situated along a tributary of the Azat River Valley within the Khosrov Forest State Reserve located near the villages of Goght and Garni. According to local folklore, the monastery was founded by Gregory the Illuminator upon the site of the martyrdom of Stephan, a supposed companion to Saint Hripsime, another Christian martyr during the time of Armenia’s conversion to Christianity.

Saint Karapet Monastery

Saint Karapet Monastery, or Hovhannes Karapet Church, is a monastic complex located on the northern slopes of the Urts Mountain Range. According to one of the few inscriptions found at the monastery, it was established by the Orbelyan dynasty as their main burial ground, around the beginning of the 14th century.

Saint Sarkis Church

The construction date of St. Sarkis Church of Argavand is 1897, as inscribed in the record above the northern entrance to the church. According to this record, the church was built thanks to “the donations of faithful Armenians”. During the Soviet period, the church remained open and served as a chapel where the faithful would light candles and pray. The bell tower was constructed through the efforts and donations of the local population.

Urtsi and Tapi Fortresses

The Urtsi and Tapi fortresses are located on the right bank of the Khosrov River, approximately 6 kilometers northwest of Urtsadzor village. Tapi Fortress, also known as the Gevorg Marzpetuni Fortress, dates back to the 10th century. Adjacent to the southern and eastern walls of the fortress, there are dwellings and vaulted constructions built between the 10th and 13th centuries, while inside, there is a 13th century church. Urtsi Fortress, the construction of which started in the 4th century and continued with some interruptions until the 13th century, is located nearby.

Kakavaberd Fortress

Kakavaberd, meaning “Partridge Fortress” in Armenian, is located on a ridge overlooking the Azat River Gorge within the Khosrov Forest State Reserve. The fortified walls of the fortress are well-preserved, with towers at the northeastern side standing 8-10 meters tall. The fortress is inaccessible from three of its sides due to steep terrain, but once inside, you’ll find the ruins of a church and other structures.

Museums

Paruyr Sevak House-Museum

Paruyr Sevak was an Armenian poet, translator and literary critic, considered one of the greatest Armenian poets of the 20th century.

Vazgen Sargsyan House-Museum

Vazgen Sargsyan was an Armenian military commander and politician. He was the first Defense Minister of Armenia, and also served as Armenia’s Prime Minister. His house-museum showcases collections of

Intangible Cultural Heritage

As the cradle of Armenian civilization for millennia, Ararat is home to many cultural practices such as calligraphy and pottery, that locals practice to this day. In the villages, you’ll find people engaging in various crafts. Some settlements boast carpet weavers, silversmiths, and jewelers. Take your time to observe and experience these traditions up close as you travel through the region!

Calligraphy

The art of calligraphy has been practiced and refined in Armenia over the centuries, particularly by the country’s numerous monasteries, where monks created beautifully illuminated manuscripts that contained prayers, biblical stories, and other historically and culturally significant information.

Pottery

Pottery has been a tradition in Armenia for millennia, with local people finding beautiful and creative ways to decorate their handmade creations. Potters and tonir [toh-neer] (traditional underground clay ovens) makers of Yuva village are especially esteemed throughout Armenia for their expertise, which has been passed down through generations.

Tonir Making

A tonir [toh-neer] is a traditional Armenian oven made out of clay and buried underground for cooking and baking. Tonir makers from Ararat are highly respected in Armenia for their expertise, considered among the best. You can see tonir makers hard at work firsthand, by visiting Dashtavan village.

Festivals

One of the best ways to explore and immerse yourself in local culture is through festivals, and in the Ararat region, there are several opportunities throughout the year. From traditional celebrations like Easter and Vardavar, where vibrant customs and rituals abound, to the exhilarating SlackLife Fest, an adventure festival celebrating the spirit of outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline-seekers, Ararat offers a diverse array of experiences.

SlackLife Fest

For six years now, the festival has been a cherished tradition in Hell’s Canyon, enveloped by breathtaking scenery and natural formations, promising unforgettable moments and vibrant experiences. Organized by the Step Slackliners Armenia Club and its supporting counterparts, the festival offers a myriad of activities including rock climbing, slacklining, highlining, rope jumping, acro yoga, yoga, and a space net. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned enthusiast, the festival’s staff is dedicated to providing guidance and instruction, ensuring everyone can enjoy and partake in the excitement of the event. SlackLife Fest Location - Hell’s Canyon

Cuisine & Wine

The region is situated in the heart of the Ararat Valley, renowned globally as one of the epicenters of grape domestication and the origins of viticulture. It boasts one of the highest concentrations of indigenous grape varieties worldwide.

The region is also popular for its culinary delights including dishes such as summer tolma featuring stuffed vegetables and cabbage with a mixture of rice and meat, grilled and fried vegetables, pork and lamb barbecue, khashlama, pilaf infused with raisins and dried fruits, emmer wheat pilaf, and Lenten tolma.

Here are some region-specific culinary delights you simply can’t miss.

Local fruits and vegetables: you’ll notice many makeshift stands along the roads in Ararat where local villagers proudly sell their bountiful harvests. Whether you’re in need of snacks during your travels, or simply want a taste of the region’s delicious fruits such as apricots, mulberries, plums, apples, pears, peaches, and many more, these stands are the best places to stop. Thanks to rich volcanic soil, abundant sunshine averaging 300 days a year, and lots of water from snow melt and natural underwater wells means Armenia’s fruits and vegetables boast exceptional taste and quality.

Ttu lavash [tuh-tooh lah-vahsh]: you may already be familiar with lavash bread, Armenia’s most famous bread type, but this snack isn’t bread. Ttu means sour, and ttu lavash is fruit leather made by sun-drying pureed fruit, such as plums and apricots. Sold as big, thin sheets, these are the perfect snacks for your travels across Armenia.

Shorva [shohr-vah]: this is a flavorful summer stew consisting of chunks of lamb or beef that’s brought to a boil with an array of local vegetables such as peppers, eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes, and onions.

Aylazan [ay-lah-zahn]: this is a local vegetable ragout that consists of many different vegetables that are minced and cooked in a tomato sauce, very typical in the summer months when vegetables are in season. It’s similar to shorva, but without the meat – the perfect vegan meal!

Wine

The region, being one of the five wine making regions of Armenia, is situated in the heart of the Ararat Valley, renowned globally as one of the epicenters of grape domestication and the origins of viticulture. It boasts one of the highest concentrations of indigenous grape varieties worldwide. In fact, 30% of the country’s vineyards are located here.

You know what that means, right? It means there are many local wineries producing some of Armenia’s best wines here in Ararat. See if you can visit all of them while traveling through the region, and indulge in their diverse offerings. If you are tasting on your travels, be sure to have a designated driver and drink responsibly.

Here are some of the popular wineries of the region, which are heartfully welcoming guests for tastings: Ararat Wine Factory, Azaria Winery, Givany Winery, Grigoryan Group Winery, Kenats Group, Lordnok Company, Moonq Wines, Rikars Wine, Tushpa Wine Cellar, Vedi Alco, and Yeraskh Wine Factory.

Nature

Discover a sanctuary of ancient trees, feel the serenity of tranquil waters, explore the fertile expanses of the Ararat Valley, or dare to venture into the rugged depths of sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls. With each step through the Ararat region, immerse yourself in a unique landscape. Let’s explore what awaits.

Azat Reservoir

This reservoir is arguably one of the most beautiful in all of Armenia. Located near Lanjazat village, it’s nestled right below the majestic Yeranos Mountains, a beautiful mountain chain characterized by their striking red rock formations. The area around the reservoir is popular for picnics and photos, drawing visitors seeking to capture its natural beauty. You can even hike to the reservoir from the Temple of Garni in Garni village.

Khosrov Forest State Reserve

This may come as a surprise, but the Khosrov Forest State Reserve is one of the oldest protected areas in the world with a history of over 1,700 years! The forest was founded in the 4th century by the Armenian King Khosrov Kotak to improve the natural climatic conditions of adjacent Artashat, the capital city of Armenia at the time, and of the newly established city of Dvin, to ensure conservation and enrichment of local flora and fauna, and serve as a ground for royal hunting, military exercises, and entertainment. The forest is accessible today only by reserving a ticketed experience with one of their local rangers, who will accompany you on a guided hike.

Waterfalls

Within the Khosrov Forest State Reserve, you’ll discover the stunning Astghik and Vahagn waterfalls. These waterfalls cascade gracefully through the lush landscape, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Their crystal-clear waters and the surrounding greenery make them perfect spots for relaxation, photography, and immersing in the peaceful sounds of nature.

Ararat Valley

This valley spans both the Ararat and the adjacent Armavir provinces, yielding 40% of the country’s agricultural output despite making up just 4% of the total land area. Most of the valley consists of agricultural fields. You’ll notice many makeshift stands aong the highway where local villagers sell their bounties. If you’re in need of snacks, or just want a taste of the fruit (like apricots, mulberries, plums, apples, pears, peaches, and many more) the plain is known for, these stands are the best places to stop.

Hell’s Canyon

Also known as the Aratso Canyon, after the river that flows through it, Hell’s Canyon is located in the southeastern part of the Ararat region. This rugged terrain features canyon walls that soar to heights between 100 to 400 meters in certain sections, while its width varies from 1.5 to 80 meters. Characterized by barren, rocky, and steep walls, the canyon exudes an imposing presence. Scattered throughout are numerous caves, as well as the enchanting Nare Waterfall, a small yet breathtaking natural wonder that adds a touch of beauty to the rugged scenery.

Angels’ Canyon

Nestled in the stunning Ararat region of Armenia, Angels’ Canyon is a hidden treasure for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This aweinspiring gorge, with its towering cliffs and rugged landscape, offers visitors a unique and serene escape. The canyon is known for its dramatic rock formations. Perfect for hiking, photography, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Angels’ Canyon promises a memorable experience. Whether you’re exploring the trails or enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, this breathtaking spot is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Adventure

Enjoy staying active during your travels? Great! Ararat, much like the rest of Armenia, has lots of options for outdoors adventures to get your heart pumping. Let’s check them out!

Hiking

Ararat boasts a wealth of outstanding hiking trails suitable for hikers of all abilities, ranging from novices to experienced adventurers. The region is teeming with captivating destinations, including the scenic route from Urtsadzor to Tapi Berd, the challenging ascent of Ilkasar Mountain, and the enchanting exploration of Angel’s Canyon and Hell’s Canyon. Each of these trails offers a unique blend of landscapes and exhilarating experiences, from panoramic vistas to hidden natural wonders waiting to be uncovered.

To discover a range of hiking trails in the Ararat region, download the free HIKEArmenia app.

Paddleboarding

A relatively new sport in the adventure scene here in Armenia, paddleboarding has quickly grown in popularity as a fun and refreshing way to explore Armenia’s lakes and reservoirs. The Azat Reservoir is a popular spot to go paddleboarding in the Ararat region, and there are several adventure travel organizations who organize experiences here. It’s also a yearround activity, meaning you can even paddleboard in the wintertime! Either way, you’re sure to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Yeranos Mountains, which border the reservoir.

You can go on a paddleboarding adventure with Supman Armenia, a local tour operator specializing in paddleboarding.

Rock Climbing

If you’re a rock climber, or want to try something new, you’ve come to the right destination! Armenia is so rocky, that local people sometimes call the country karastan [kah-ras-tan], meaning “land of rocks.” With an abundance of cliffs, canyons, and rock faces, there’s no shortage of climbing opportunities. In the Ararat region, one standout location for climbers is Hell’s Canyon—a stunning narrow canyon that also offers excellent hiking opportunities. For those seeking guided adventures, consider partnering with a trusted local adventure tour operator.

Paragliding

Looking to really unleash your inner adventurer and defy gravity? Consider embarking on a paragliding tour while in Armenia. It’s a great, if not the best way, to take in the breathtaking views and appreciate the vast Ararat Valley and its surrounding mountain ranges. You’ll feel the incredible rush of the wind as you soar through the air, taking in the views year-round – yes, you can even paraglide during the wintertime!

AERO Club and Sky Club offer tandem paragliding flights for travelers. For an unforgettable adventure, we suggest paragliding near the picturesque Azat Reservoir.

Fishing

If you like fishing, head to Armash village, where you can fish in many man-made lakes and fisheries. Here, you may just run into local fishers, get to know their traditional fishing practices, and perhaps even learn how to cook your catch the local way.

Birdwatching

Armenia’s diverse climatic zones and varied elevation profile make it a haven for a wide array of bird species yearround. For avid birdwatchers, the prime destinations in the Ararat region are the local reservoirs such as Azat. The optimal times to visit for birdwatching are typically during April and May, as well as in September. During these months, you’ll have the opportunity to witness an impressive diversity of avian life set against the backdrop of Armenia’s scenic landscapes.

Embark on a birdwatching experience with BirdLinks Armenia NGO, Caucasus Wildlife Tours, Armenian Society for the Protection of Birds, or BirdingArmenia, who organize tours that provide optimal opportunities for photography of both the stunning landscapes and diverse avian species.

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