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Mount Armaghan: Armenia's Crater Lake Volcano

Discover Mount Armaghan: Hike to a volcanic crater lake with panoramic views and a mountaintop chapel in Armenia's Gegharkunik Province.

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Mount Armaghan, an extinct volcano in Armenia's Gegharkunik Province, offers stunning natural beauty. Its peak features a crater lake and a small chapel, making it a unique destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking panoramic views and a touch of Armenian history.

A brief summary to Armaghan mountain

  • 3697+VHC, Madina, AM

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations.
  • Consider visiting in spring or summer when the trails are more accessible and the landscape is vibrant.
  • An SUV with high clearance is recommended to reach the base of the mountain due to unpaved roads.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Yerevan, take the M4 highway towards Sevan. Continue onto the M10, following signs for Martuni. From Martuni, head towards Madina. The road to Mount Armaghan from Madina is unpaved and requires a vehicle with high clearance, preferably an SUV. The ascent from Madina is about 5.7 km. Parking is available near the trailhead.

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan, take a marshrutka (minibus) to Martuni. From Martuni, you can hire a taxi to Madina, the village at the base of Mount Armaghan. Be prepared for a bumpy ride. From Madina, it's best to hike or arrange for a local driver with a suitable vehicle to take you closer to the mountain's base. The marshrutka fare from Yerevan to Martuni is approximately 1,000-1,500 AMD. A taxi from Martuni to Madina may cost around 2,000-3,000 AMD.

  • Hiking

    From Madina, follow the unpaved road towards Mount Armaghan. The hike to the summit is moderately challenging and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The trail is well-marked but can be steep in some sections. Ensure you have appropriate hiking shoes and carry sufficient water.

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Discover more about Armaghan mountain

Mount Armaghan, standing at 2,829 meters (9,281 feet), is an extinct volcano located in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia, near the village of Madina. This natural monument is part of the Geghama mountain range and offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. The mountain's most distinctive feature is the crater lake at its summit, approximately 50 meters in diameter and 15 meters deep. This serene lake, surrounded by alpine vegetation, reflects the sky, creating a picturesque scene. In 2009, a domed basalt church was constructed near the lake, adding a spiritual dimension to the site. The church stands on the site of a former ancient chapel. The slopes of Mount Armaghan are covered in lush forests and alpine meadows, offering diverse ecosystems to explore. Hiking to the summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including Lake Sevan, the largest freshwater lake in the Caucasus. The trails, while moderately challenging, are well-marked and offer an immersive experience in Armenia's rugged landscape. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, making it a haven for nature lovers. Mount Armaghan holds cultural significance in Armenian folklore and history, associated with ancient legends and myths. Local people refer to Mount Armaghan as “a gift from God”.

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