Gegham Mountains: Armenia's Volcanic Highlands
Explore Armenia's Gegham Mountains: Volcanic peaks, ancient petroglyphs, and stunning alpine scenery await adventurous travelers.
The Gegham Mountains, a volcanic range in Armenia, offer a unique landscape of extinct volcanoes, crater lakes, and ancient petroglyphs. Stretching between Lake Sevan and the Ararat Plain, the range is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking remote beauty and historical intrigue.
A brief summary to Gegham Mountains
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Local tips
- Visit in the summer months (July-August) for the best weather conditions and access to water sources.
- Be prepared for remote hiking with limited facilities; bring plenty of water, food, and appropriate gear.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience and to navigate the trails safely.
- Explore the ancient petroglyphs and vishap stones to discover the rich history and culture of the region.
- Check weather forecasts before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Yerevan, take a marshrutka (minibus) from the Northern Bus Station towards a town closer to the mountains, such as Tsaghkadzor or Garni. The journey to Tsaghkadzor takes about 1.5 hours and costs approximately 1,500 AMD. From there, hire a taxi to reach specific trailheads or destinations within the Gegham Mountains; expect to pay around 3,000-5,000 AMD for shorter trips.
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Taxi
A direct taxi from Yerevan to the Gegham Mountains takes approximately 39 minutes and costs between $10-$13 (USD). However, note that this would only take you to the edge of the mountain range, and further transport may be needed to reach specific hiking spots.
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Car
From Yerevan, head east on the M1 highway towards Garni. After approximately 30 km, take the exit towards Hrazdan and continue on the M4 road. Follow signs for Tsaghkadzor, after which you will enter the Gegham Mountains area. Look for parking near popular trailheads. Keep in mind that roads within the mountain range may be unpaved and require a 4x4 vehicle.
Discover more about Gegham Mountains
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gegham Mountains
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Lake Aknalich
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Aghdagh Lerr
9.2 km
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Soviet-era World War II Statue
17.0 km
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Shoghakavank
19.1 km
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Mount Hatis
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Au Moulin Tatoyan (ջրաղացի մոտ)
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Garni Canyon
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Symphony of Stones
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Black Wall
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Garni Historical and Cultural Museum
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Garni Temple
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Garni Gorge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gridzor
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Gegham Ridge
4.9 km
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Azhdahak
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Azhdahak Mountain
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The lake with stones (QARAYIN,Քարային լիճը)
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Geghama Petroglyphs
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Կարմիրգյուղ
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Gegharkunik History Museum
15.2 km
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Cross & View Point
19.0 km
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Cave of Stones
20.1 km
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Geghard Monastery
20.1 km
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H3
20.2 km
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Noratus Cemetery
20.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Berkut restaurant
16.1 km
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ROYAL FISH
20.0 km
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Lus Bread house
21.5 km
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Mer Hayat Hacaran
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Garni Ishxananoc
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Akunki Drakht Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tsaghkashen Khanut Shop
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Vachik Market
14.1 km
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Vape Shop Gavar
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Al Market
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Wildberries
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Gavar
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Arevik park
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AYRIVAN Supermarket
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Grand Market
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BARBIE-LAND
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Totobet
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Hotel
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You Fakyu
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Castle House
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Abovyan
27.8 km
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SAMO CLUB
29.5 km
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Restaurant Bardiner Ռեստորան Բարդիներ
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Experience the best of Armenian cuisine at Restaurant Bardiner in Mayakovski, where traditional flavors meet modern flair.
The View I Sevan
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Experience stunning views and delightful cuisine at The View I Sevan - a unique bar by Lake Sevan offering a perfect escape in Armenia.
DeLuxe
30.5 km
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Maku cafe-restaurant
30.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Armenia at Maku Cafe-Restaurant in Abovyan, offering a delightful fusion of local and international dishes in a cozy setting.
Durs Bar & Grill
30.6 km
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Cocobello Beach
30.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cocobello Beach, a tranquil bar at Lake Sevan offering stunning views and a perfect escape for tourists.