The forests, of natural origin, suffered economic exploitation during the Soviet period, so the Armenian SSR established a National Park in 1958 in order to preserve this arborous wonder.
Occupying 240 square kilometers, nearly a tenth of the territory of Tavush, natural and cultural landmarks abound! Set up camp or go for a barbecue at one of the predesignated spots and you might catch sightings of bears, deer, foxes, lynxes and all other sorts of mammals; but beware of the poisonous snakes! Sleeping in your tent at night will enchain a myriad of emotions, from bewonderment of the stars at night to fear of the footsteps and echoes of the unknown darkness beyond the torch light – but don’t worry, the animals are just curious from a distance!
Much of the interest in the park arises due to the historic wealth of the park coupled with its biodiversity, and it has been a popular place of inspiration for artists looking for inspiration throughout the centuries. A stroll in any direction will eventually lead to a monastery, such as the Jukhtakvank or Matosavank monasteries, or the incredibly well restored Haghartsin Monastery; and along the way are hikes laden with wild flowers and old-growth trees. Hidden in the shade, on trails of all difficulties, are the Parz and Gosh lakes, the Frolova-Balka Gorge, the Anagyun Caves, Akhnabat Yew Park and countless others.