Places to Go

Տավուշ

What Awaits in Tavush

There’s no shortage of experiences to have in Tavush. Adrenaline seekers in particular can rejoice knowing that ziplining, horseback riding, rock climbing, paragliding, and of course, hiking are what the region’s most known for. If adrenaline is not what you’re after, don’t worry! There’s still lots to do in this green corner of Armenia.

Have an elegant dinner made using local, seasonal ingredients straight from the forest, relax around the campfire while admiring the starry night sky, or discover the secrets of medieval monasteries tucked away in the forest – the choices are endless, and they’re yours!

Mother nature really is the star of Tavush ~50% of the region is covered in forests, which are known for their rich diversity of flora and fauna. Between the spring and summer months, you can expect these forests, as well as Tavush’s high-altitude meadows, to be bursting with multi-colored wildflower blooms. The average elevation here is 900 meters above sea level, with the highest point being the peak of Mount Miapor at 2,992 meters above sea level.

Tavush is also known for its mild climate (winters here are quite warm compared to other parts of Armenia), clean mountain air rich with oxygen, healing mineral springs, wild edible herbs and other plants, as well as a growing number of local mountain resorts.

Quick info about Tavush

Greenest Region

Tavush is one of Armenia’s most forested regions, known for its lush mountains, fresh air, and peaceful natural landscapes.

Home to Dilijan

The region includes Dilijan, often called “Armenia’s Little Switzerland,” famous for its artistic atmosphere and green surroundings.

Outdoor Paradise

Tavush offers hiking trails, lakes, and wildlife-rich reserves, making it a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Rich Heritage

Historic monasteries like Haghartsin and Goshavank highlight Tavush’s deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Culture

Tavush is home to many cultural and historical gems that are neatly tucked away in its forests and valleys.

The region’s monasteries are noteworthy for their distinct architectural style, and you’ll be surprised by how these structures, which have withstood the test of time, seem to harmoniously coexist with the surrounding natural landscape.

Tangible Cultural Heritage

History buffs, rejoice! There are about 2,000 historical and cultural monuments in Tavush, including medieval monasteries and churches, fortresses, historic bridges, and ancient settlements, all waiting to be discovered.

Haghartsin Monastery

Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, Haghartsin Monastery is a living artifact of Armenia’s ancient roots. The monastic complex was built far from roads and noisy city life, in a forested valley enclosed by stunning mountains. The complex is made up of multiple churches, a sepulcher where members of the Armenian Bagratuni royal family are buried, a refectory, and the charming energy of medieval Armenia. The refectory in particular is considered a masterpiece of Armenian classical secular architecture for both its inner arrangement and the structure’s roof.

Goshavank Monastery

This monastery is noteworthy for several reasons: its location atop a hill surrounded by dense forests, the color of the stones used in its construction, and the unique khachkars [khahch-kahr] or cross-stones that decorate its exterior and interior. These cross-stones are so intricately carved that they look like they are embroidered, which is why they are known locally as “embroidered” khachkars. Goshavank Monastery is named after its founder Mkhitar Gosh, an Armenian scholar, writer, public figure, thinker, and priest who wrote a code of civil and canon laws that were used in Armenia and even adopted by the King of Poland! Gosh also founded a school here, making Goshavank one of the greatest educational centers of its time.

Makaravank Monastery

Founded in the 13th century, Makaravank Monastery is one of the most significant medieval Armenian religious architectural monuments still standing today. The monastery complex’s oldest church dates back to the 12th century, and is unique for the dramatic decorations carved on its inner walls and window frames.

Nor Varagavank Monastery

Nor Varagavank may be a typical example of 12th century Armenian architecture, but its historical role is far from typical. According to tradition, a piece of the Holy Cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified was brought to Armenia in the 4th century and moved to this monastery. It was later transferred to Ejmiatsin Cathedral, the center of Armenian Christendom. These days, on the last Sunday of September every year, the relic is brought from Ejmiatsin back to Nor Varagavank, its original home in Armenia, for a liturgy service that you can participate in!

Aghavnavank Monastery

Aghavnavank, meaning “monastery of doves,” is a 12th to 13th century monastery in Dilijan National Park, located on the outskirts of Aghavnavank village. Though the monastery complex is semi-destroyed today, there are several structures to the south of the area that have been preserved, which were likely places of residence and business.

Khoranashat Monastery

Khoranashat, which means “many altars,” in Armenian, is a 13th century monastic complex located at the edge of a forest. At its height the monastery was an important spiritual, educational, and cultural center. A medieval university even once operated here, educating the greatest local minds of the time.

Aghjkaberd Fortress

This is one of Armenia’s most well-preserved fortresses, located atop a mountain covered in dense forest. Natural rocks and the high walls of Aghjkaberd, meaning “girl’s fortress,” in Armenian, have kept this site largely inaccessible for most of its existence. Luckily for you, a trail that starts in Hovk village leads right to it! Within the fortress walls you’ll find reservoirs, living areas, and even a small church.

Ashot Erkat Fortress

Built in the first quarter of the 10th century and known for being impenetrable, Ashot Erkat Fortress, also called Mantasheaberd, is a historic gem just 7 kilometers south of the city of Ijevan. Revered for its strong walls and pyramidal towers, this fortress is beautifully situated atop a cliff with breathtaking views. From its highest viewpoint of Takhta Church, you can enjoy a wonderful panorama of Ijevan, Gandzakar, and the beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Berdavan Fortress

Berdavan Fortress is located at the top of a hill near the village of Berdavan. Built between the 10th and 11th centuries, the structures that you can visit today were reconstructed in the 17th century.

Mimino Statue

This statue, located in the central roundabout of Dilijan, is dedicated to the iconic 1977 Soviet film Mimino. The comedy follows the adventures of a Georgian pilot nicknamed Mimino and his Armenian friend Ruben, played by celebrated local actor Frunzik Mkrtchyan. The statue depicts them and other characters from the film, and symbolizes Armenian, Georgian, and Russian friendship.

Monument Dedicated to the 50th Anniversary of Soviet Armenia

This monument, also located near the Dilijan central roundabout, was erected in 1970 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Soviet Armenian Republic. Each of the monument’s five spires symbolize one decade of Soviet Armenia’s existence.

Intangible Cultural Heritage

Like the rest of Armenia, Tavush is all about the intersection of the ancient and modern worlds. Some of the country’s longest-standing artistic traditions such as carpentry, rug weaving, embroidery, jewelry making, ceramics, and stonework are deeply ingrained in Tavush’s local culture and are thriving today.

Rug Weaving

Rug weaving has been an integral part of Armenian culture for millennia, and Tavush, like all other regions of Armenia, developed its own unique rug designs and weaving techniques over time. Weaving was especially popular among women, who passed their knowledge and skills from generation to generation. Rugs were also an important part of young women’s dowries, and it was common for Armenian women to learn weaving at an early age so they could later create their own wedding rugs.

Carpentry

Due to the abundance of wood resources, carpentry was and still is popular in Tavush. The craftsmanship of woodworkers can be admired in old homes to this day, which contain architectural features made from wood — from cupola-shaped ceilings and pillars to everyday household items like furniture, chests, cradles, ladles, and spoons. Stay in any local guesthouse and you’ll surely encounter beautiful examples of the region’s carpentry.

Embroidery and Needlework

Embroidery and needlework hold a special place in the folk art of Tavush. Historically, embroidery was a beloved occupation of women, who would gather in a friend’s or neighbor’s home or backyard to work together. It was a pastime, a social activity, and a way to improve and show off their skills. While working, women would sing songs, recite poetry, tell stories, and share local news. Armenian embroidery designs include geometric, animal, and human motifs — though floral motifs are the most popular in Tavush. Examples of this ancient craft can be seen in local museums such as the Dilijan Local Lore Museum and the Art Gallery.

HayBuis Festival

The HayBuis Festival celebrates Tavush’s local foraging culture and the preparation and use of wild edible herbs and other plants that grow abundantly in the region. Aptly named “Armenian plant,” in Armenian, HayBuis takes place in one of the most picturesque areas of all of Armenia — Apaga Resort in Yenokavan. At the festival you’ll learn about local herbs and how they are used, including their healing properties, while surrounded by the beautiful nature from which they come.

Yell Extreme Festival

Yell Extreme Park is an adventure park nestled in the forested hillsides of Yenokavan. You can enjoy activities like horseback riding, paragliding, mountain climbing, mountain biking, and ziplining here all year long, but the most exciting time to visit is their annual birthday celebration festival. In addition to the adventure experiences Yell offers, at their festival you can expect live music, a cocktail and snack bar, as well as the option to camp overnight under the stars.

Dilijan Arts and Crafts Festival

The Arts and Crafts Festival that takes place in Dilijan every year is all about Tavush-specific art, including decorative arts like pottery, blacksmithing, and woodworking, as well as local cuisine. You can also catch a glimpse of live rug weaving and admire different types of Armenian rugs on display. Local song and dance troupes from across Armenia also gather at the festival to perform traditional songs and dances from the various communities that they represent. This festival is the perfect opportunity for you to enjoy a mix of traditional and contemporary Armenian culture.

Dilijan Wine Fest

One of the newer festivals to hit the circuit in Armenia, the Dilijan Wine Fest takes place every year at the summer residence of Aghasi Khanjyan. The first secretary of the Communist Party of Armenia who held the post for six years, Khanjyan’s now abandoned mansion in the middle of the forest is transformed every August, as dozens of wineries from across Armenia gather to share their creations with festival goers. You can expect lots of wine tastings, talks on winemaking, arts and crafts like painting with wine, live music, and delicious local food.

Cuisine

Talk to any traveler who has been to Armenia and they’ll most certainly rave about the local foods and wines they had while here. Tavush in particular is known for its fresh, flavorful, and healthy food options, as much of the produce you’ll find in restaurants, at hotels and guest houses, and in local markets comes straight from the farm or forest. There’s a large variety of local berries in Tavush, and over 150 types of mushrooms that come from local people’s vegetable patches or that are fora

Here are some must-try dishes in Tavush

Pork barbecue: Tavush is known as having the most delicious pork in all of Armenia.

Khashil [khah-sheel]: a traditional dish made from ground, pre-roasted wheat.Korkot [kohr-koht]: stew made from a combination of wheat and pork meat.

Herbal teas: chamomile, mint, and thyme can be found growing everywhere in the mountains of Tavush.

Natural sweets: seasonal fruits and berries from the forest, as well as fresh local jams and honey, can be found pretty much everywhere.

Gata [gah-tah] and nazuk [nah-zook]: traditional sweet pastries usually stuffed with a butter, flour, and sugar filling called khoriz [khoh-reez].

Sali [sah-lee]: another sweet pastry similar to gata and nazuk, but flat like a pancake.

Wine and more

Tavush is one of the five major winemaking regions of Armenia. Its warm climate, high altitude, and abundant sunlight make for the perfect conditions for grape growing. The most common grape varieties cultivated here are Kangun, Lalvari, Banants, and Garan Dmak, which make fresh and aromatic white wines. You can find large-scale wine factories, small wineries, and home-based productions in Tavush, as well as gastro yards, which are local

people’s yards turned into eateries, where you can have a delicious meal along with homemade wine.

Another popular spirit in Tavush and across Armenia is fruit vodka. Armenians distill vodka pretty much out of every fruit that grows here, and drinking always involves long, heartfelt toasts, called kenats in Armenian. A kenats is an integral part of any Armenian celebration, and you are sure to experience one and even be encouraged to say one yourself. Cheers!

Nature & Wildlife

You probably figured out by now that Tavush is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Misty mountains, lush forests, blooming meadows, fast-flowing rivers, clear lakes – the list goes on and on.

Dilijan National Park

Dilijan National Park is one of four national parks in Armenia. With upwards of 900 species of plants and animals, astonishing forest landscapes, fresh mineral springs, wild fruits and vegetables, and an extensive network of hiking trails, Dilijan National Park is one of the best spots in Armenia to get away and be one with nature. The park also happens to be home to some of Armenia’s most iconic monuments, like the monasteries of Goshavank and Haghartsin.

Lake Gosh

Hidden amongst the rolling forests of Tavush, near the eponymous village of Gosh, lies beautiful little Lake Gosh. Completely encompassed by thick forests and towering mountains, the colors of the lake and the surrounding forest change with the seasons. As summer gives way to autumn, the forest transforms from emerald green to warm tones of honey, pumpkin, and spice, while the lake’s clear water reflects the sky above. This is the perfect spot for camping, as the lake lies at the crossroads of local hiking trails.

There are no amenities here, so if you do plan to camp, come prepared with all your necessary gear, food, and drinking water for an overnight stay. If a hike is not on your itinerary, you can always reach Lake Gosh by jeep ride from the village. Take heed – the roads leading there are not paved and can get quite muddy after fresh rainfall.

Lake Parz

Parz, meaning “clear” in Armenian, is another small lake hidden among the mountains of Tavush. Unlike Lake Gosh, there are several attractions and activities that you can enjoy here, including a restaurant, paddle boats, and ziplines. Lake Parz is accessible by car via a paved road that leads directly to it, though you can get there by hiking as well.

A marked hiking trail connects Lake Gosh to Lake Parz, and continues onward to the town of Dilijan. If a multi-day hike in the forest was not part of your plans in Tavush, you may want to reconsider. But before you do, know that hiking is one of the best ways to experience the real Armenia, and we have more tips in this guidebook for you to plan an epic hike!

Caucasian Red Deer Breeding Center

Located within Dilijan National Park on the road leading to Lake Parz, the Caucasian Red Deer Breeding Center is a conservation center that houses and rehabilitates the Caucasian red deer, an endangered species registered in the Red Book of Plants and Animals of Armenia. The main aim of the center is to rehabilitate the deer and release them back into their natural habitat. You’re welcome to stop by and get to know these furry creatures at a safe distance.

Mount Dimats

Towering at a height of 2,378 meters above sea level, Mount Dimats is part of the Ijevan Mountains and was, up until recently, relevantly unknown even to local people. A difficult hike or bumpy jeep ride up to the top, however, is well worth it. From the summit you can enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Ijevan Mountains’ other-worldly sheer cliffs, as well as the entire Tavush region. While on route to the summit, you can also find the alluring Shaghot Waterfall just east of the mountain.

You can hike to the top of Mount Dimats from either Haghartsin Monastery or Hovk village. It is a difficult and long hike, so do come prepared!

Mount Apakekar

Apakekar is located between the villages of Haghartsin and Hovk, within Dilijan National Park. Standing at 1,651 meters above sea level, you can take in an impressive view of the mountain from Hovk as it rises from the village’s meadows. Mount Apakekar, like Dimats, is growing in popularity as a hiking destination, so put on your boots and get there before everyone else!

Waterfalls

With all its mountains, natural springs, snow in the winter, and rainfall in the spring, you can be sure that Mother Nature created some pretty spectacular waterfalls in Tavush. Though they are not always easily accessible, and not as popular as others in Armenia, the waterfalls of Tavush are no less beautiful than their counterparts.

Adventure

There’s no shortage of thrills to be had in Tavush, and adrenaline seekers will find a variety of outdoor activities to do in and around Dilijan and the village of Yenokavan.

Hiking

Tavush is home to an extensive network of world-class hiking trails. In fact, dozens of trails that are part of the Transcaucasian Trail run right through Dilijan National Park. What’s extra special about hiking here and in Armenia overall, is that many trails connect villages and towns to one another. A multi-day hike with overnight stays in both village guest houses and at campgrounds will give you the complete Armenia experience: local hospitality and untouched nature, wrapped in one epic hiking adventure. If elevation gain is what you are after, Mount Paytatap and Miapor are popular summits to climb, after Dimats.

You can find many marked hiking trails and professional guides on the free HIKEArmenia application. HIKEArmenia is a nonprofit organization developing hiking infrastructure and promoting Armenia, including Tavush, as the awesome hiking destination that it is.

Ziplining

If you are looking to experience the lush green world of Tavush from another perspective, like from above, then ziplining may be just for you. The most popular zipline in the region is at Yell Extreme Park in Yenokavan, which will give you a bird’s eye view of the rugged landscapes below. If you are new to ziplining and are looking for one that’s less extreme, then the zipline at Lake Parz is a great option, but note: the line goes directly above the lake!

Horseback Riding

There are several options for horseback riding in Tavush, which, aside from hiking, is one of the best ways to explore the region’s nature. It’s also an excellent way to get to know local ways of life and learn a new skill while galloping through some of the most beautiful spots in Armenia. Horseback riding is available in Yenokavan, Dilijan, and surrounding villages.

Rope Parks

If you’re not afraid of heights and are looking for a challenge, Tavush is home to two rope parks, which we’re sure you’ll enjoy completing. While climbing through these obstacle courses high above the ground from tree to tree, be sure to take a minute and enjoy the views and that fresh mountain air. Deep breath in. Deep breath out. Feels great, doesn’t it?

Կիսեք ձեր կարծիքը

Առնչվող բլոգ գրառումներ

Palm Sunday in Armenia (Tsaghkazard): Meaning and Traditions

Discover how Palm Sunday (Tsaghkazard) is celebrated in Armenia. Learn the meaning behind willow branches, church traditions, and how the feast marks the beginning of Holy Week.

#Մշակույթ և կենցաղ #Քրիստոնեություն

Best Camping Spots in Armenia for Nature Lovers

From lakeside serenity to mountain adventure, Armenia offers unforgettable camping experiences. Discover the country’s most scenic and soul-soothing escapes.

#Մշակույթ և կենցաղ #Բնություն #Հավասարակշռություն

Cycling Tours in Armenia: Trails, Tours, and Tips

Pedal through Armenia’s stunning landscapes and historic sites. Discover top cycling tours, bike rentals, and epic bikepacking challenges designed for all riders.

#Մշակույթ և կենցաղ #Զբաղմունք #Բնություն

Abandoned Churches and Monasteries You Should Visit

Armenia spans nearly 30,000 square kilometres, and across it lie more than 4,000 churches and monasteries!

#Եկեղեցիներ #ՅՈՒՆԵՍԿՕ #Ազգային #Ճարտարապետություն #Բնություն