The Jewel of Armenia: Lake Sevan

Discover the natural beauty of Lake Sevan, Armenia's largest lake, surrounded by mountains, ancient monasteries, and offering a variety of water sports and cultural experiences.

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Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan, often referred to as the 'Jewel of Armenia,' is the largest lake in the Caucasus region. Nestled at an altitude of 1,900 meters above sea level, this enchanting lake covers an impressive area of 1,242 square kilometers. Its pristine blue waters and scenic surroundings make it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains and dotted with ancient monasteries, such as the famous Sevanavank Monastery, which dates back to the 9th century. The monastery offers panoramic views of the lake and is a must-visit for history buffs and photographers. The Sevan Peninsula, where the monastery is located, is a great spot for a peaceful walk or a picnic. Lake Sevan is also a popular destination for water sports, including swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. The summer months are ideal for these activities, as the lake's waters are warm and inviting. Additionally, the local fish, especially the Sevan trout, is a culinary delight that visitors should not miss. Numerous restaurants around the lake serve freshly caught fish, offering a true taste of Armenia. For those interested in exploring the local culture, the nearby town of Sevan hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy traditional Armenian music, dance, and cuisine, making their trip to Lake Sevan a memorable experience.

Local tips in Lake Sevan

Visit Sevanavank Monastery early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
Bring a swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the lake during the summer months.
Try the local Sevan trout at one of the lakeside restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Pack warm clothing if visiting in the spring or fall, as temperatures can be quite cool.
Check out the local festivals in Sevan town to immerse yourself in Armenian culture.

File:Sevanavank, Sevan Monastery.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Hayravank Monastery.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Armenia - Lake Sevan - Panorama 2003.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Dilijan Lake Parz.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Lake Sevan?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Sevanavank Monastery

Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Sevanavank Monastery, a stunning landmark on the shores of Lake Sevan, Armenia.

Sevanavank

Discover the beauty and history of Sevanavank, a stunning 9th-century monastery overlooking the breathtaking Lake Sevan in Armenia.

Harsnaqar Hotel Complex & Water World

Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Harsnaqar Hotel Complex & Water World in Sevan, Armenia's ultimate family getaway.

ԱԽԹԱՄԱՐ Լողափ

Discover the tranquil beauty of Sevan Beach, a must-visit destination on the shores of Lake Sevan in Armenia, offering relaxation and adventure.

Sevan Island

Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Sevan Island, a serene retreat in Armenia's stunning Lake Sevan.

Saint Jacob Armenian Chapel

Explore the tranquil Saint Jacob Armenian Chapel at Vazgenian Theological Academy, a serene retreat showcasing Armenia's rich spiritual heritage.

Vanevank

Discover Vanevank, a serene monastery in Artzvanist, Armenia, where history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes converge.

Sevan Lake And Monestry..

Explore the enchanting Sevan Lake and the historic Sevanavank Monastery, where nature meets Armenia's rich cultural heritage in a breathtaking setting.

Holy Mother of God Church

Explore the rich heritage and serene beauty of Holy Mother of God Church, a must-visit Armenian landmark in Sevan surrounded by stunning landscapes.

SEVAN BEACH

Discover the vibrant beauty of Sevan Beach, where serene waters meet stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and adventure in Armenia.

Севан

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Sevan, Armenia's gem for hiking and nature exploration, adorned with rich history and vibrant local culture.

Hayravank Monastery

Hayravank Monastery: A 9th-century treasure by Lake Sevan, perfect for history lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

Смотровая Вышка (Советский Модернизм)

Experience the architectural beauty and stunning views at Smotrovaya Vyshka, a historical landmark in Sevan, Armenia.

Soviet viewing platform

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Soviet Viewing Platform in Sevan, a must-visit landmark for every traveler in Armenia.

Unmissable attractions to see

Vanevank

Explore Vanevank, an enchanting monastery in Artzvanist, Armenia, where history meets spirituality amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Севан

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sevan, Armenia, where stunning landscapes meet rich history and thrilling adventures await.

Sevan Botanical Garden

Explore the lush beauty of Sevan Botanical Garden, a peaceful retreat in Armenia with diverse flora and stunning landscapes.

Green Park Sevan

Experience the natural beauty of Green Park Sevan, an ideal hiking and camping destination nestled in Armenia's stunning landscapes near Lake Sevan.

دریاچه سوان

Discover the stunning beauty and cultural richness of Lake Sevan, Armenia's enchanting freshwater lake surrounded by mountains and history.

Essential places to dine

Hotel and Teahouse Bashinjaghyan

Discover the charm of Armenian culture at Hotel and Teahouse Bashinjaghyan in Chkalovka—where culinary delights meet serene hospitality.

Noyland resort

Discover Noyland Resort: A culinary haven offering stunning views and diverse flavors in Armenia's picturesque Chkalovka village.

Yasaman Sevan's Restaurant

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine with stunning views at Yasaman Sevan's Restaurant near Lake Sevan.

Հացատուն Մակու

Savor Authentic Armenian Cuisine at Հացատուն Մակու – A Culinary Gem by Lake Sevan

Mirans Restaurant & Hotel

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine with stunning views at Mirans Restaurant & Hotel near Lake Sevan.

Tarsus_Sevan

Discover authentic Armenian flavors at Tarsus Sevan in Tsovazard village, overlooking stunning Lake Sevan.

Sevan Writers' House

Experience literary inspiration at Sevan Writers' House while enjoying local cuisine amidst stunning views of Lake Sevan.

Sevan Brewery

Discover the authentic flavors of Armenia at Sevan Brewery, where handcrafted beers meet breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine.

Hayetsi

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Hayetsi on Sevan Peninsula—where every dish tells a story and every bite is a delight.

Collette Restaurant

Discover exquisite seafood dining at Collette Restaurant in Sevan, where fresh flavors meet stunning lakeside views.

Barev Cafe & Restaurant

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine with stunning lake views at Barev Cafe & Restaurant in Sevan.

ROYAL FISH

Discover Royal Fish: A top seafood destination in Hayravank offering stunning lake views and authentic Armenian flavors.

Zanazan

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Zanazan in Tsapatagh – where every dish tells a story.

Tsovatsots Restaurant

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Tsovatsots Restaurant with fresh fish dishes and stunning views in beautiful Chkalovka.

Վարդգեսի մոտ

Discover authentic Armenian flavors at Vardgesi Mot in Sevan - where every meal is a celebration of taste and tradition.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Bohem Studio - Teahouse

Discover the tranquil charm of Bohem Studio, a teahouse in Sevan offering exquisite teas and an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Արթ'ս Սփեշալթիս

Discover the culinary treasures of Martuni at Արթ'ս Սփեշալթիս, a gourmet grocery store offering local and international delights that tantalize the taste buds.

Antique Sevan

Explore unique antiques and vintage collectibles at Antique Sevan, a treasure trove reflecting Armenia's rich cultural heritage.

MARKET MTERQ

Explore MARKET MTERQ in Noratus for a vibrant shopping experience featuring local crafts, foods, and an authentic Armenian atmosphere.

Noro's Shop

Explore Noro's Shop in Vardadzor for a unique blend of local culture, handcrafted products, and warm Armenian hospitality.

Մթերային խանութ

Explore the delightful M grocery store in Vaghashen for authentic Armenian flavors and warm hospitality in a charming village setting.

Argishti Home

Explore Argishti Home in Martuni for a unique blend of contemporary fashion and local styles, perfect for every tourist's wardrobe enhancement.

Sevan's Sig Mini market

Explore Sevan's Sig Mini Market in Pambak for a unique experience with vibrant goldfish in a serene and delightful atmosphere.

Tsaghkashen Khanut Shop

Uncover the rich flavors and handcrafted treasures at Tsaghkashen Khanut Shop, a must-visit store for tourists exploring Armenian culture.

Хаяраванк, Маркет

Discover unique Armenian crafts and cultural souvenirs at Хаяраванк, Маркет, the heart of local shopping in Hayravank.

Մարկետ

Explore the local charm and unique offerings of Մարկետ, a delightful store in Nerkin Getashen, where every visit is a cultural discovery.

R&L

Explore unique Armenian fashion at R&L, a charming clothing store in Martuni, perfect for tourists seeking style and local craftsmanship.

BARBIE-LAND

Dive into the imaginative world of Barbie-Land, a colorful clothing store in Yeranos offering unique fashion experiences for all ages.

Универсам

Discover the vibrant local culture and unique products at Универсам in Gavar, a must-visit store for every traveler.

Grand Market

Experience the essence of Armenian culture at Grand Market, Gavar's vibrant shopping hub offering local produce and unique handicrafts.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Yasaman Sevan's Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Armenian cuisine with stunning views at Yasaman Sevan's Restaurant near beautiful Lake Sevan.

Sevan Writers' House

Explore Sevan Writers' House, where culinary delights meet artistic inspiration amidst the breathtaking views of Lake Sevan.

Sevan Brewery

Discover the essence of Armenian beer at Sevan Brewery, a picturesque brewpub offering craft brews and local cuisine by Lake Sevan.

Hayetsi

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Hayetsi, a culinary gem on the scenic Sevan Peninsula, perfect for food lovers and tourists alike.

Barev Cafe & Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Armenian cuisine at Barev Cafe & Restaurant, with stunning views of Lake Sevan and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Collette Restaurant

Experience the finest seafood dining at Collette Restaurant in Sevan, where fresh, local flavors meet exceptional service in a stunning setting.

Zanazan

Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Zanazan in Tsapatagh, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

Ice beer

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ice Beer in Abovyan, where local brews and friendly vibes await every traveler.

Durs Bar & Grill

Experience the best grilled flavors at Durs Bar & Grill in Sevan, where local ingredients meet a vibrant dining atmosphere.

Green Bay Sevan

Discover the flavors of Armenia while enjoying breathtaking views at Green Bay Sevan, the perfect dining destination on the shores of Lake Sevan.

Gagari mot

Discover the flavors of Armenia at Gagari Mot, a delightful restaurant near Lake Sevan offering authentic dishes in a stunning natural setting.

Totobet

Totobet in Gavar: A lively sports bar where excitement and community meet, perfect for enjoying live sports with friends.

Beer House (пивбар)

Discover the heart of Lchap's nightlife at Beer House, where local brews and a vibrant atmosphere await.

Ашот Еркат

Discover the flavors of Armenia at Ashot Erkat, a lakeside restaurant offering authentic dishes and stunning views of Lake Sevan.

fishermans house resort

Discover the charm of Fisherman's House Resort in Tsovazard, where local brews and traditional cuisine come together in a picturesque setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Lake Sevan

Discover Lake Sevan with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Lake Sevan

- Helloբարև
  [barev]
- Goodbyeհրացէ
  [hrats'e]
- Yesայո
  [ayo]
- Noոչ
  [voch]
- Please/You're welcomeխնդրում եմ/խնդրում էմ
  [khndrum em/khndrum em]
- Thank youՇնորհակալ եմ
  [shnorhakal em]
- Excuse me/SorryՆերքողություն
  [nerkoghut'yun]
- How are you?Ինչպես ես?
  [inchpes es?]
- Fine. And you?Լավ եմ. Անդ դու?
  [lav em. and du?]
- Do you speak English?Անգլերեն խփե՞ս
  [angleren khpes?]
- I don't understandԵս չեմ հասկանում
  [es chem haskanum]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseԽնդրում եմ ճաշացանկ տեսնել
  [khndrum em chashats'ank t'esnel]
- I don't eat meatԵս միս չեմ ուտում
  [es mis chem ut'um]
- Cheers!Շնորհակալություն!
  [shnorhakalutyun]
- I would like to pay, pleaseԽնդրում եմ վճարել
  [khndrum em vchar'el]
- Help!Օգնեք!
  [ogn'ek']
- Go away!Միացեք!
  [miatsek']
- Call the Police!Զորացաք ոստիկանը!
  [zorats'ak' vosdikan]
- Call a doctor!Զարգահարեք բժիշկին!
  [zargaharek' bzhishtsin]
- I'm lostԵս կորցրամ
  [es korts'ram]
- I'm illԵս հիվանդ եմ
  [es hivand em]
- I'd like to buy...Խնդրում եմ գնել
  [khndrum em gnel]
- I'm just lookingԵս միայն նայում եմ
  [es miayn nayum em]
- How much is it?Ինչպե՞ս է դարձը
  [inchpe es darje]
- That's too expensiveԷն շատ մեծ է
  [en shat mets e]
- Can you lower the price?Դուք կարծիք ունեք գնել ավելի բառացնել
  [duk kartsik unek' gnel aveli barats'nel]
- What time is it?Տե՛ս ժամը որ է
  [tes zam e vor e]
- It's one o'clockՄեկը է
  [mek'e]
- Half past (10)Տարուն գնա տասը
  [tarun gna tase]
- MorningԱռավոտ
  [aravot]
- AfternoonԿեսօր
  [kesor]
- EveningԵրեկո
  [yereko]
- YesterdayԵրեկ
  [yerek]
- TodayԱյսօր
  [aysor]
- TomorrowՎաղը
  [vage]
- 1մեկ
  [mek]
- 2երկու
  [erku]
- 3երեք
  [ereq]
- 4չորս
  [chors]
- 5հինգ
  [hing]
- 6վեց
  [vets]
- 7յոթ
  [yot']
- 8ութ
  [ut']
- 9ինը
  [inə]
- 10տասը
  [tasə]
- Where's a/the...?...վերածնվելու երեկոյանը
  [veratsnvelu erekoayan]
- What's the address?Ի՞նչ է հասցեն
  [inch e hasc'en]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Ի՞նչպես էլ լավ ցուցադրել
  [inchpes el lav ts'uts'adrel]
- When's the next (bus)?Երեկոյանը երիտասարդ է
  [erekoayan eritasard e]
- A ticket (to ....)Միայն մեկ կտրոն եռանկյալ է
  [miayn mek ktoron erankyal e]

History of Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan, located in the Armenian Highlands, is one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world. It was formed through geological processes over millions of years, resulting from tectonic movements and volcanic activity. The lake is situated at an altitude of 1,900 meters above sea level and covers an area of approximately 1,242 square kilometers.
Lake Sevan is home to several important medieval monasteries, including Sevanavank and Hayravank. Sevanavank Monastery, founded in 874 AD by Princess Mariam, sits on a peninsula offering stunning views of the lake. Hayravank Monastery, dating back to the 9th to 12th centuries, is perched on a rocky hill overlooking the lake, showcasing traditional Armenian architecture and ancient khachkars (cross-stones).
Throughout history, Lake Sevan has held significant strategic importance due to its location and resources. During various periods of Armenian history, the lake served as a natural defense barrier against invading forces. Its surrounding regions have seen numerous battles and skirmishes, making it a pivotal point in the defense of the Armenian kingdom.
During the Soviet era, Lake Sevan underwent significant changes due to large-scale irrigation and hydroelectric projects. In the 1930s, the level of the lake was lowered by over 19 meters to provide water for agriculture and generate hydroelectric power. This had considerable environmental impact, leading to a reduction in the lake's surface area and affecting local ecosystems. Efforts to restore the lake's natural water level began in the late 20th century and continue today.
The communities around Lake Sevan have a rich cultural heritage, with traditions deeply rooted in Armenian history. Fishing has been a vital part of local life for centuries, with the lake providing a significant source of fish, particularly the Sevan trout. Traditional Armenian festivals, cuisine, and crafts are integral to the cultural landscape, with the lake often serving as a backdrop for celebrations and rituals.
Lake Sevan is a crucial ecological zone, hosting diverse flora and fauna. It is home to several endemic species, including the Sevan trout and various bird species. The lake's wetlands play a vital role in maintaining regional biodiversity. Conservation efforts have been initiated to protect these unique ecosystems and ensure the sustainability of the lake's natural resources.

Lake Sevan Essentials

Lake Sevan is located in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia. The nearest international airport is Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, approximately 80 kilometers away. From Yerevan, you can take a taxi, a minibus (marshrutka), or a train to Lake Sevan. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road or rail, providing scenic views of the Armenian countryside.
Once you arrive at Lake Sevan, local taxis and marshrutkas are readily available for getting around. Renting a car is also a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Bicycles can be rented for those who prefer a more active mode of transportation. Many of the lake's attractions are accessible by foot, allowing for leisurely strolls along the shore.
The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). While credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops around Lake Sevan, it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns around the lake, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Yerevan before traveling.
Lake Sevan is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's 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 staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Sevan town. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the towns around the lake 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 Lake Sevan 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 lake's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Sevanavank Monastery, which offers stunning views of the lake. For a unique experience, try the local fish dishes, particularly the famous Sevan trout.

The Jewel of Armenia: Lake Sevan

Local tips in Lake Sevan