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Jukhtakvank Monastery: A Pair of Churches in the Dilijan Forest

Discover Jukhtakvank Monastery in Dilijan National Park: a peaceful retreat featuring two ancient churches amidst stunning natural beauty.

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Jukhtakvank Monastery, nestled within Dilijan National Park, is a serene 11th to 12th-century complex featuring two historic churches. Surrounded by lush forests, it offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Armenia's medieval religious architecture.

A brief summary to Jukhtakvank Monastery

  • QR53+339, Dilijan, AM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths leading to the monastery can be uneven and require some walking.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photography.
  • Check local weather conditions before your visit, as it can affect trail accessibility.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Dilijan city center, the monastery is approximately a 3.2 km (2 mile) hike. Follow the road towards the Mineral Water Factory along the river Bildan. Continue to the end of the road where a small parking lot marks the start of the hiking trail. The well-marked trail to Jukhtakvank Monastery takes about 1-2 hours each way. Hikearmenia app offers a map of the trail.

  • Taxi

    From Dilijan city center, a taxi can take you to the start of the hiking trail. Taxis are readily available in Dilijan, and the ride to the trailhead takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your trip; expect to pay around 2,000-3,000 AMD. From the trailhead, it is still necessary to hike the final portion to the monastery.

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Discover more about Jukhtakvank Monastery

Jukhtakvank Monastery, also known as Jukhtak Vank, is a captivating historical site located 3.2 km northwest of Dilijan in Armenia's Tavush Province. The name 'Jukhtakvank' itself means 'twin monastery' in Armenian, referring to the two churches that comprise the complex. These churches, set in a clearing within Dilijan National Park, date back to the 11th and 12th centuries, offering a window into Armenia's rich medieval past. The monastery consists of two main churches: Surb Grigor (Saint Gregory) and Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God). Surb Grigor, the larger of the two, features a cruciform central plan, though its dome collapsed long ago. Surb Astvatsatsin, the smaller church, was built in 1201 and bears an inscription detailing its construction by Hayrapet, an abbot of Surb Petros Monastery. The monastery's architecture showcases traditional Armenian stone construction, blending seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape. Visitors to Jukhtakvank can explore the two chapels, admire the intricate stone carvings, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding forest. The site offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, inviting reflection and contemplation. The monastery is also located near the Matosavank Monastery, and some travelers hike to both in the same day.

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