Mount Ara: Armenia's Mythical Mountain

Explore Mount Ara: Hike Armenia's legendary volcano, discover diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in ancient mythology.

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Արայի լեռ

Mount Ara, an extinct volcano in Armenia's Kotayk Province, is steeped in legend and natural beauty. Named after the Armenian king Ara the Beautiful, the mountain offers hiking trails, diverse flora and fauna, and panoramic views, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

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Local tips

Wear sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing, as the weather on Mount Ara can change quickly.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike to the summit.
Be aware of the potential for snakes and bears, especially when hiking on the northern slopes.
Visit in spring or early summer to see the mountain's flora in full bloom.
Consider hiring a local guide for a more informative and safe hiking experience.

Getting There

Taxi

From Yerevan, the most direct way to reach Mount Ara is by taxi. The ride takes approximately 40 minutes and costs between 4,000-5,000 AMD. It's advisable to use a taxi with a meter or agree on a price beforehand.
Public Transport

To reach Mount Ara by public transport from Yerevan, take a minibus from the Northern Bus Station to a neighboring village like Karbi or Aparan. Minibus tickets cost around 1,000 AMD. From there, you can hire a taxi to the mountain, which should cost approximately 2,000 AMD. Be sure to check the minibus schedules in advance.

Discover more about Արայի լեռ

Mount Ara, rising to 2,605 meters (8,547 feet), is a prominent natural landmark in Armenia, easily recognizable by its irregular cone shape and truncated summit. Located in the Kotayk Province, not far from Yerevan, this polygenetic stratovolcano is a favorite destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The mountain's slopes are adorned with diverse landscapes, ranging from semi-deserts and oak groves to lush meadows and forests. This variety supports a rich biodiversity, including numerous bird species, reptiles, and larger mammals. The area has been recognized as an Important Bird Area, hosting species like the Golden Eagle and Caucasian Black Grouse. Mount Ara is deeply intertwined with Armenian mythology, named after Ara the Beautiful, a legendary Armenian king. Legend says that the Assyrian queen Semiramis fell in love with Ara and waged war against Armenia when he rejected her. Ara was killed in battle on the mountain's slopes, and Semiramis, hoping to revive him, ordered his body to be taken to the summit. The mountain's silhouette is said to resemble a lying man, representing the fallen king. Hiking Mount Ara offers a rewarding experience, with trails leading to the summit and the Tsaghkevank Monastery (also known as the Virgin Varvara), a shrine built into a mossy cave. The best time to visit is during spring and summer when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant.