Khosrov Forest State Reserve: Armenia's Royal Sanctuary
Discover Armenia's Khosrov Forest: A royal reserve with ancient ruins, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, perfect for nature and history lovers.
Khosrov Forest State Reserve, nestled in the Ararat Province of Armenia, is a remarkable testament to the country's commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Established in the 4th century (334-338) by King Khosrov III Kotak, the reserve is one of the oldest protected areas in the world, with a history spanning over 1,700 years. The King designated the area as a reserve to improve the natural climate of the adjacent city of Artashat and to conserve and enrich the flora and fauna. It also served as a royal hunting ground, a place for military exercises, and entertainment. Covering approximately 23,213.5 hectares (57,362 acres), the reserve's landscape varies from semi-desert to mountainous and alpine meadows, ranging in elevation from 700 to 2,800 meters (2,300 to 9,200 feet) above sea level. This diverse terrain supports a wide array of plant and animal life, including many rare and endangered species. The reserve is home to over 1,800 species of vascular plants, representing more than half of Armenia's flora and about one-third of the Caucasus flora. Among the notable fauna are the bezoar goat, the endangered Persian leopard (with only an estimated 10 remaining in Armenia), the Syrian brown bear, the Eurasian lynx, and the Armenian mouflon. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the 142 species of birds, including the Egyptian vulture, black vulture, and golden eagle. Khosrov Forest is not only a natural sanctuary but also a repository of Armenian history and culture. Scattered throughout the reserve are over 300 registered monuments, including monasteries, churches, chapels, settlements, khachkars (carved cross-stones), and gravestones. The Havuts Tar Monastery, the Aghjots Monastery complex, and the Kakavaberd Fortress are among the most notable historical sites. The reserve also features natural attractions such as the Aghjots Falls, a collection of four waterfalls, with the Astghik and Vahagn waterfalls being the most striking. These waterfalls are named after ancient pagan gods, adding a mythological dimension to the natural beauty. Visitors to Khosrov Forest State Reserve can explore its scenic hiking trails, enjoy birdwatching, and discover the historical sites. The reserve offers a unique blend of adventure, nature, and history, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking to connect with Armenia's rich heritage and natural beauty.
Local tips
- Visit in the spring or fall for pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers or colorful landscapes.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as the terrain can be rugged and uneven.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching and spotting wildlife.
- Hire a local guide to learn about the history and ecology of the reserve.
- Carry sufficient water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the reserve.
A brief summary to Khosrov Forest State Reserve
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Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Khosrov Forest State Reserve via public transport, start from Yerevan. Take a minibus (marshrutka) from the Gai bus station towards Garni. The journey to Garni takes approximately 50 minutes and costs around 500 AMD. From Garni, you can hire a taxi to the reserve entrance, which is about 10 km away. Expect to pay around 1,000-1,500 AMD for the taxi ride.
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Taxi
For a direct route to Khosrov Forest State Reserve, take a taxi from Yerevan. The taxi ride to the reserve entrance will take approximately 30-40 minutes, covering around 29 km. The fare should be negotiated beforehand, and you can expect to pay around 3,000-4,000 AMD for a one-way trip.
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Car
If driving from Yerevan, head east towards Garni. Follow the main road to Garni, and then follow the signs for Khosrov Forest State Reserve. The drive takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Note that the last part of the drive is along a narrow road, so drive carefully. Parking is available near the reserve entrance. There may be an entrance fee to access the reserve, which is typically around 2,000-4,000 AMD for foreign citizens.
