Mount Aragats: Armenia's Majestic Four-Peaked Volcano

Explore Armenia's highest peak: Mount Aragats, a majestic volcano steeped in history, legend, and breathtaking natural beauty.

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Mount Aragats, Armenia's highest peak, is an extinct volcano boasting four distinct summits and a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. A popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, Aragats offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into Armenia's ancient past.

A brief summary to Kari Lake

Mount Aragats, AM

Local tips

The best time to hike Mount Aragats is during the summer months (June-September) when the weather is mild and the trails are clear of snow.
For beginner hikers, the Southern peak is the most accessible and requires no special equipment.
Lake Kari is a great place to acclimatize to the altitude before starting your hike.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, even in summer, and bring appropriate clothing and gear.
Consider hiring a local guide if you are unfamiliar with the terrain or plan to hike the Northern or Eastern summits.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Mount Aragats using public transport, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Yerevan's Kilikia bus station to the town of Aparan. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes and costs around $2-4. From Aparan, you can hire a taxi to Lake Kari, a common starting point for hikes on Mount Aragats. The taxi ride to Lake Kari will cost approximately 15,000 AMD (around $37).
Taxi

A taxi directly from Yerevan to Lake Kari, a common starting point for hikes on Mount Aragats, takes approximately 2 hours and costs around $29-35. Taxis are readily available in Yerevan, and it's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Driving

Driving from Yerevan to Mount Aragats (Lake Kari) takes approximately 2 hours via the most direct route. Be aware that the road to Lake Kari can be challenging, especially in winter, and may require a 4x4 vehicle. Parking is available at Lake Kari.

Discover more about Kari Lake

Mount Aragats, a majestic four-peaked volcano, stands as the highest point in Armenia, reaching 4,090 meters (13,420 feet) at its northern summit. Located in the western part of Armenia, between the Ararat and Shirak plains, this extinct volcano holds a significant place in Armenian history, culture, and mythology. Formed by volcanic eruptions in the distant past, Aragats boasts four distinct peaks: the Northern (4,090m), Western (3,995m), Eastern (3,908m), and Southern (3,888m). The mountain's name is associated with Ara the Beautiful, an ancient Armenian king, with "Aragats" translating to "Ara's Throne". Legend has it that Aragats and Mount Ararat were once loving sisters who separated after a quarrel. Another tale speaks of St. Gregory the Illuminator praying on the peak, with a divine lamp lighting his way. The slopes of Aragats are adorned with ancient monuments, including Paleolithic artifacts, ancient irrigation systems, and "dragon stones" symbolizing water worship. The medieval Amberd Fortress and Byurakan Observatory add to the area's historical and cultural significance. The mountain's fertile slopes transform into vibrant alpine meadows during spring and summer, carpeted with wildflowers. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including jerboas, hares, foxes, and various reptiles and birds. Hiking Mount Aragats is a popular activity, with the best time to visit being from June to early September when the trails are dry and stable. The Southern peak is the most accessible, requiring no special gear and offering stunning views of Mount Ararat, Lake Sevan, and the Geghama Range on a clear day. More experienced trekkers can venture to the Northern and Eastern summits, requiring more stamina and proper gear. Lake Kari, a serene lake at 3,207 meters, serves as a common starting point for ascents.