Ararat, Armenia Travel Guide

Discover the majestic Mount Ararat, a symbol of Armenia's natural beauty and rich history, offering breathtaking views, ancient monasteries, and unforgettable experiences.

Nestled in the heart of Armenia, Mount Ararat holds a special place in both history and mythology. This snow-capped peak is famously known as the resting place of Noah's Ark, making it a significant landmark for biblical scholars and adventurers alike. The mountain, standing at 5,137 meters, dominates the skyline and offers breathtaking views that capture the essence of Armenia's rugged beauty. Visitors to Ararat are often struck by its imposing presence and the serene landscapes that surround it. The mountain is not just a natural wonder but also a cultural symbol deeply embedded in the Armenian identity. From the ancient monasteries dotting its base to the lush vineyards flourishing in its shadow, Ararat provides a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. For those keen on exploration, the nearby Khor Virap Monastery offers an unparalleled vantage point of Mount Ararat. The monastery, with its deep historical roots, adds another layer of intrigue to your visit. Whether you are an avid hiker, a history buff, or someone seeking spiritual solace, Ararat in Armenia promises an unforgettable journey.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ararat.

Best time to visit is late spring or early autumn for clear views and pleasant weather.
Wear sturdy hiking boots if you plan to explore the trails around the mountain.
Visit Khor Virap Monastery early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Local guides can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the area.
Bring a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes and panoramic views.

Top City Travel Guides in Ararat

The cities of Ararat, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Yerevan

Destinations in Ararat

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Geghard Monastery

Noravank Monastery

Khor Virap

Khosrov Forest State Reserve

Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex

Explore Ararat: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Ararat

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Havuts Tar Monastery Complex

Explore the historical Havuts Tar Monastery Complex, a serene retreat in Armenia’s stunning landscapes, rich in culture and spirituality.

5.0

Tushpa Wine Cellar

Explore Tushpa Wine Cellar in Taperakan for an unforgettable wine tasting experience, showcasing the best of Armenian viticulture.

5.0

Geghard Monastery

Explore Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Armenia, featuring stunning rock-cut architecture and rich spiritual history.

4.8

Garni Gorge

Explore Garni Gorge's Symphony of Stones, a geological wonder with towering basalt columns and ancient history near Yerevan, Armenia.

4.7

Best landmarks in Ararat

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Best Landmarks

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Khor Virap Monastery

Experience the historic Khor Virap Monastery, a captivating blend of spirituality and stunning views of Mount Ararat in Armenia.

4.8

Garni Historical and Cultural Museum

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Armenia at the Garni Historical and Cultural Museum, a must-visit for history lovers and culture enthusiasts.

4.7

Garni Gorge

Explore the breathtaking Garni Gorge, a unique natural wonder in Armenia known for its stunning basalt columns and rich cultural heritage.

4.7

Azat Reservoir

Experience the serene beauty of Azat Reservoir, a natural wonder in Armenia perfect for relaxation, adventure, and stunning landscapes.

4.8

Best restaurants in Ararat

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Ararat Tavern

Discover authentic Armenian flavors at Ararat Tavern in Yerevan – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.7

Գեղարդ

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Geghard in Kotayk – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

4.3

Garni Ishxananoc

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Garni Ishxananoc in the breathtaking village of Garni, where tradition meets flavor.

3.9

Sergei Mot

Discover authentic Armenian cuisine at Sergei Mot in Garni - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.6

Best bars in Ararat

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Dargett Craft Beer

Discover the vibrant world of craft beer at Dargett in Yerevan, a brewpub offering unique flavors and delicious food in a cozy atmosphere.

4.6

Beatles Pub Yerevan

Discover the lively Beatles Pub in Yerevan - a vibrant bar and restaurant offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and unforgettable entertainment.

4.7

Ararat Tavern

Discover the authentic flavors of Armenia at Ararat Tavern in Yerevan, a culinary haven for food lovers and culture enthusiasts.

4.7

Malkhas Jazz Club

Experience the finest live jazz music and a vibrant atmosphere at Malkhas Jazz Club, the heartbeat of Yerevan's nightlife.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Ararat

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Omega

Immerse yourself in Yerevan's vibrant nightlife at Omega, a premier night club offering electrifying music, stylish decor, and an unforgettable experience.

4.3

Diva

Dive into Yerevan's nightlife at Diva Night Club, where music, dance, and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

4.0

Ella

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Yerevan at Ella, a premier night club offering an unforgettable party atmosphere and vibrant entertainment.

5.0

Gold Star show club

Discover the exhilarating atmosphere at Gold Star Show Club, where unforgettable nights of dance and entertainment await you in Berkanush.

Best shops in Ararat

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Vernissage

Explore Yerevan's Vernissage, a vibrant market brimming with unique handicrafts, art, and local culture, perfect for souvenir shopping.

4.5

Geghard Monastery

Explore the ancient Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled in Armenia's scenic cliffs, offering a blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

4.8

Garni Historical and Cultural Museum

Discover Armenia's rich heritage at the Garni Historical and Cultural Museum, a captivating destination showcasing ancient artifacts and vibrant culture.

4.7

Dalma Garden Mall

Experience the best of shopping and dining at Dalma Garden Mall, Yerevan's premier destination for modern retail and entertainment.

4.6

Explore Ararat on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Ararat, mapped for you.

Ararat Essentials

Ararat is located in the Ararat Province of Armenia, approximately 42 kilometers southeast of Yerevan, the capital. The nearest international airport is Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan. From Yerevan, you can take a taxi or a minibus (marshrutka) to Ararat. The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a train from Yerevan to Ararat, which offers a comfortable and scenic route.
Ararat is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.
The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Ararat, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Yerevan before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.
Ararat is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Ararat. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Ararat like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Armenian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Khor Virap Monastery, which offers stunning views of Mount Ararat and is one of the most iconic sites in Armenia. For a unique experience, explore the local vineyards and taste the renowned Armenian wines.

When is the best time to visit Ararat?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Ararat

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Ararat. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloԲարև
  [Barev]
- GoodbyeՑտեսություն
  [Tstesutyun]
- YesԱյո
  [Ayo]
- NoՈչ
  [Voch]
- Please/You're welcomeԽնդրում եմ/Խնդրեմ
  [Khndrum em/Khndrem]
- Thank youՇնորհակալություն
  [Shnorhakalutyun]
- Excuse me/SorryՆերեցեք
  [Neretseq]
- How are you?Ինչպես եք?
  [Inchpes ek?]
- Fine. And you?Լավ։ Իսկ դուք?
  [Lav. Isk duk?]
- Do you speak English?Դուք անգլերեն խոսո՞ւմ եք:
  [Duk angleren khosum ek?]
- I don't understandԵս չեմ հասկանում
  [Yes chem haskanum]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseՑանկանում եմ տեսնել մենյուն, խնդրում եմ
  [Tsankanum em tesnel menyun, khndrum em]
- I don't eat meatԵս միս չեմ ուտում
  [Yes mis chem utum]
- Cheers!Ընդ salud!
  [End salud!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseՑանկանում եմ վճարել, խնդրում եմ
  [Tsankanum em vjarel, khndrum em]
- Help!Օգնեցեք!
  [Ognets'ek!]
- Go away!Հեռացեք!
  [Herats'ek!]
- Call the Police!Զանգահարեք ոստիկանություն!
  [Zangaharek vostikanutyun!]
- Call a doctor!Զանգահարեք բժիշկի!
  [Zangaharek bjishki!]
- I'm lostԵս կորել եմ
  [Yes k'orel em]
- I'm illԵս հիվանդ եմ
  [Yes hivand em]
- I'd like to buy...Ցանկանում եմ գնել...
  [Tsankanum em gnel...]
- I'm just lookingԵս просто նայում եմ
  [Yes prosto nayum em]
- How much is it?Ի՞նչ արժե:
  [Inch arje?]
- That's too expensiveԴա շատ թանկ է
  [Da shat tank e]
- Can you lower the price?Կարո՞ղ եք իջեցնել գինը:
  [Karogh ek ijetsnel giny?]
- What time is it?Ինչ ժամ է:
  [Inch jam e?]
- It's one o'clockՄեկ ժամ է
  [Mek jam e]
- Half past (10)Մեկուկես տասը
  [Mekukes t'asy]
- MorningԱռավոտ
  [Aravot]
- AfternoonՑերեկ
  [Tsererik]
- EveningԵրեկո
  [Yerek'o]
- YesterdayԵրեկ
  [Yerek]
- TodayԱյսօր
  [Aysor]
- TomorrowՎաղը
  [Vaghy]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Որտե՞ղ է...?
  [Vortegh e...?]
- What's the address?Ի՞նչ հասցե է:
  [Inch hasce e?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Կարո՞ղ եք ցույց տալ (քարտեզի վրա)?
  [Karogh ek tsuyc tal (kart'ezi vra)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Երբ է հաջորդը (բեռնատար)?
  [Erb e hajordy (bernat'ar)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Տոմս (մի ....)
  [T'oms (mi ....)]

History of Ararat

Mount Ararat is famously known as the resting place of Noah's Ark. According to the Book of Genesis in the Bible, Noah's Ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat after the great flood. This has made the region a significant point of interest for both religious scholars and adventurers seeking to uncover remnants of the Ark.
The Ararat plain was once a part of the ancient kingdom of Urartu, which flourished between the 9th and 6th centuries BCE. The Urartians were known for their advanced engineering, particularly in constructing fortresses and irrigation systems. The ruins of the ancient city of Erebuni, founded by Urartian King Argishti I in 782 BCE, can still be visited today.
Ararat is located in the Armenian Highlands, a region that has been a cradle of civilization for millennia. The area is rich in archaeological sites, including ancient temples, burial mounds, and petroglyphs that date back to the early Bronze Age. These relics provide a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants of the region.
Ararat and its surroundings are home to numerous medieval Christian monuments. The Khor Virap Monastery, located at the foot of Mount Ararat, is particularly significant. It was here that Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who is credited with converting Armenia to Christianity, was imprisoned for 13 years. The site is an important pilgrimage destination for Armenian Christians.
During the Soviet era, the Ararat region underwent significant industrial development. The town of Ararat became known for its cement factory, which was established in the 1930s. Despite the industrial advancements, the region maintained its cultural and historical identity, with many ancient sites preserved and protected.
Today, Ararat is a vibrant region that blends its rich historical past with modern amenities. It is a center for viticulture and winemaking, with several renowned wineries producing some of Armenia's best wines. The region also attracts tourists who come to explore its historical sites, hike in the picturesque landscapes, and experience the local culture.