Gegharkunik, Armenia Travel Guide

Discover Gegharkunik, Armenia's lakefront paradise, rich with ancient monasteries, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant local culture by the serene Lake Sevan.

Home
Travel Guides
Armenia
Gegharkunik

Gegharkunik, nestled in the heart of Armenia, is a picturesque province boasting breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Dominated by the serene waters of Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world, this area is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Lake Sevan is the crown jewel of Gegharkunik. Its azure waters offer a perfect setting for swimming, boating, or simply soaking in the views from the shore. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountainous terrain, providing ample opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty. The region is also home to several ancient monasteries and historical sites. The Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking the lake, dates back to the 9th century and offers a glimpse into Armenia's spiritual past. Another notable site is the Noratus Cemetery, which features an extensive collection of khachkars (carved cross-stones) dating from the medieval period. Local cuisine in Gegharkunik is a delight, with fresh fish from Lake Sevan being a highlight. Try the local specialty, Sevan trout, at one of the many lakeside restaurants. The region's markets also offer a variety of fresh produce and traditional Armenian foods. Gegharkunik is not just about scenic beauty and history; it also offers a warm welcome from the local people. Their hospitality and traditional way of life add to the charm of this unique destination.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit Sevanavank Monastery early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings, even during summer.
Try the local fish dishes, especially the famous Sevan trout, for a taste of authentic Armenian cuisine.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore the mountainous terrain around Lake Sevan.
Explore the Noratus Cemetery to see the largest collection of khachkars and learn about Armenia's medieval history.

Top City Travel Guides in Gegharkunik

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

Yerevan

Dilijan

Tsaghkadzor

Jermuk

Vanadzor

Destinations in Gegharkunik

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

Geghard Monastery

Dilijan National Park

Noravank Monastery

Khor Virap

Khosrov Forest State Reserve

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Gegharkunik

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Makenis Monastery

Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Makenis Monastery, a serene retreat in Armenia's breathtaking landscape.

5.0

Lake Sevan

Discover Lake Sevan, Armenia: A stunning alpine lake with ancient monasteries, fresh fish, and breathtaking views.

4.7

Noratus Cemetery

Explore Armenia's largest collection of ancient khachkars at Noratus Cemetery, a medieval marvel near Lake Sevan steeped in history and legend.

4.8

Sevanavank Monastery

Explore Sevanavank Monastery: A historic Armenian treasure with stunning lake views and medieval architecture on the picturesque Sevan Peninsula.

4.8

Best landmarks in Gegharkunik

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Khor Virap Monastery

Discover the enchanting Khor Virap Monastery, a spiritual haven with breathtaking views of Mount Ararat and rich Armenian heritage.

4.8

Geghard Monastery

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the stunning Azat River Gorge.

4.8

Sevanavank Monastery

Explore Sevanavank Monastery, an exquisite blend of history and natural beauty on the shores of Lake Sevan, a must-see for every traveler in Armenia.

4.8

Tatev Monastery

Explore the majestic Tatev Monastery, a historic gem perched on cliffs, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Armenia's rich spiritual heritage.

4.9

Best restaurants in Gegharkunik

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

EL Garden

Experience the best of Armenian cuisine at EL Garden in Yerevan - where flavor meets ambiance.

4.3

Ginetun Restaurant

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Ginetun Restaurant in Yerevan – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.6

Sergei Mot

Experience the rich flavors of Armenian cuisine at Sergei Mot in Garni - a culinary gem showcasing tradition and taste.

4.6

Garnitoun

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Garnitoun in Garni – where tradition meets flavor in a warm and inviting setting.

4.1

Best bars in Gegharkunik

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Dargett Craft Beer

Discover the best of Yerevan's craft beer scene at Dargett, a vibrant brewpub offering unique brews and delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.6

Beatles Pub Yerevan

Discover Beatles Pub in Yerevan: A lively pub where music, local cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere unite for an unforgettable experience.

4.7

Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and rich Armenian culture at Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar, a must-visit pub in Yerevan.

4.3

DABOO Cocktail Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Yerevan at DABOO Cocktail Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails and lively ambiance await you.

4.8

Best nightclubs in Gegharkunik

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Kami Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Yerevan at Kami Club, where quality music and a lively atmosphere await every night of the week.

4.7

Mezzo Club

Discover the lively Mezzo Club in Yerevan, where live music, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.

4.5

Club 12

Experience the heart of Yerevan at Club 12, where live jazz meets exquisite Armenian cuisine in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

Stop Club

Experience the electric atmosphere of Stop Club, Yerevan's top destination for live rock music and unforgettable nightlife.

4.5

Best shops in Gegharkunik

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Vernissage

Vernissage Market in Yerevan: A vibrant artisan market offering unique Armenian crafts, art, and local delicacies, perfect for tourists looking for authentic souvenirs.

4.5

Dalma Garden Mall

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

4.6

Tashir Street Shopping Centre

Explore Tashir Street Shopping Centre in Yerevan - a vibrant shopping haven filled with diverse shops, delightful dining, and cultural experiences.

4.4

Yerevan Market

Explore Yerevan Market, a vibrant shopping destination filled with local craftsmanship, fashion, and unique souvenirs at unbeatable prices.

4.4

Explore Gegharkunik on the Map

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

Gegharkunik Essentials

Gegharkunik Province is located in the eastern part of Armenia. The nearest international airport is Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, approximately 120 kilometers away. From Yerevan, you can take a taxi, a private car, or a minibus (marshrutka) to Gegharkunik. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road. Alternatively, there are some regional buses that operate between Yerevan and major towns in Gegharkunik such as Gavar and Sevan.
Within Gegharkunik, local transportation options include taxis and marshrutkas. Taxis are relatively inexpensive and can be hailed in most towns and villages. For those looking to explore the region's more remote areas, renting a car is a convenient option. Public buses and marshrutkas also operate between towns and villages, offering an affordable means of getting around. For a scenic travel experience, consider taking the train from Yerevan to Sevan.
The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and some shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns like Sevan and Gavar. It is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Yerevan before traveling to more remote parts of Gegharkunik.
Gegharkunik is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Local police stations and medical facilities are available in major towns such as Sevan and Gavar. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in towns 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 Gegharkunik 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 region’s history and culture. Don’t miss visiting Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world, as well as the Sevanavank Monastery. For a unique experience, try local fish dishes such as Sevan trout or whitefish.

When is the best time to visit Gegharkunik?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Gegharkunik

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 Gegharkunik. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloԲարև
  [Barev]
- GoodbyeՀաջողություն
  [Hajoghutyun]
- YesԱյո
  [Ayo]
- NoՈչ
  [Voch]
- Please/You're welcomeԽնդրում եմ/Բարի գալուստ
  [Khndrum yem/Bari galust]
- Thank youՇնորհակալություն
  [Shnorhakalutyun]
- Excuse me/SorryՆերեցեք
  [Neretseq]
- How are you?Ինչպե՞ս 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 understandՉեմ հասկանում
  [Chem haskanum]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseՀրաշալի կլիներ տեսնել մենյուն, խնդրում եմ
  [Hrashali kliner tesnel menyun, khndrum yem]
- I don't eat meatՉեմ ուտում միս
  [Chem utum mis]
- Cheers!Առողջություն!
  [Arroghjutyun!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseԵս կցանկանայի վճարել, խնդրում եմ
  [Yes ktsankanaі vjarel, khndrum yem]
- Help!Օգնեցեք!
  [Ognets'ek!]
- Go away!Հեռացեք!
  [Herats'ek!]
- Call the Police!Զանգեք ոստիկանություն!
  [Zangek vostiakanutyun!]
- Call a doctor!Զանգեք բժիշկի!
  [Zangek bjishki!]
- I'm lostԵս կորած եմ
  [Yes korats yem]
- I'm illԵս հիվանդ եմ
  [Yes hivand yem]
- I'd like to buy...Ցանկանում եմ գնել...
  [Tsankanum yem gnel...]
- I'm just lookingԵս պարզապես նայում եմ
  [Yes parzapes nayum yem]
- How much is it?Ինչ արժե դա?
  [Inch arje da?]
- That's too expensiveԱյդ շատ թանկ է
  [Ayd shat tank e]
- Can you lower the price?Կարո՞ղ եք իջեցնել գինը
  [Karogh ek ijetsnel giny]
- What time is it?Ո՞ր ժամն է
  [Vo'r zhamn e?]
- It's one o'clockՄի ժամ է
  [Mi zham e]
- Half past (10)Կես (10)
  [Kes (10)]
- MorningԱռավոտ
  [Aravot]
- AfternoonՑերեկ
  [Tserik]
- EveningԵրեկոյան
  [Yerekojan]
- 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...?Որտեղ 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 ինձ (կարտեզի վրա)?
  [Karogh ek tsuyts' tal indz (kartesi vra)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Երբ է հաջորդը (ավտոբուս)?
  [Yerbn e hajord e (avtobus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Տոմս (տեղի համար)
  [Toms (teghi hamar)]

History of Gegharkunik

Gegharkunik, located in eastern Armenia, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. Archaeological findings in the region, such as the ancient settlement of Lchashen, suggest that the area was inhabited as early as the Bronze Age. The early inhabitants were likely involved in agriculture, animal husbandry, and metallurgy, laying the foundations for future civilizations.
Lake Sevan, the largest body of water in Armenia, has been a focal point for the region's culture and history. During the medieval period, several important monasteries were established along its shores, including Sevanavank and Hayravank. These religious centers played a crucial role in the spiritual and cultural life of the Armenians, serving as places of worship, education, and manuscript production.
Gegharkunik was once part of the larger Kingdom of Syunik, which flourished during the medieval era. Syunik was known for its strategic location and its ability to resist various invasions. The kingdom's influence extended over much of the current-day southeastern Armenia, and it contributed significantly to the region's architectural and cultural heritage, including the construction of fortresses and churches.
During the 11th and 13th centuries, Gegharkunik faced numerous invasions by the Seljuks and later the Mongols. These invasions brought about significant destruction but also led to the region's fortifications being strengthened. Many of the castles and fortresses built during this period, such as Noratus and Vanevan, still stand today as testaments to the region's resilience.
In the 20th century, Gegharkunik underwent significant changes during the Soviet era. The construction of hydroelectric plants and the draining of parts of Lake Sevan were major projects that altered the landscape and economy of the region. Today, Gegharkunik is a blend of ancient history and modern development, attracting tourists with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Noratus Cemetery is one of the most significant historical sites in Gegharkunik. It is the largest surviving cemetery of khachkars (Armenian cross-stones) in the world, with some of the stones dating back to the 9th century. The cemetery is a remarkable example of medieval Armenian art and offers insights into the religious and cultural practices of the time.