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Stepanavan Dendropark: A Botanical Oasis

Discover a world of flora at Stepanavan Dendropark, a unique Armenian arboretum with diverse trees and tranquil nature trails. A must-visit for nature lovers!

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Stepanavan Dendropark, also known as Sochut, is a stunning arboretum and a haven of biodiversity in Armenia's Lori Province. Founded in 1931 by Polish engineer Edmon Leonowicz, the park showcases a diverse collection of plant species from around the world, set within a picturesque natural forest landscape.

A brief summary to Stepanavan Dendropark

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the late spring or early autumn for mild weather and beautiful scenery.
  • If you have respiratory problems, consider visiting during the pine pollen season in late May to early June.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the paths can be uneven.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Lori Berd Fortress or Odzun Temple.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan, take a bus or minibus (marshrutka) from Kilikia Bus Station to Vanadzor. From Vanadzor, take a local bus or taxi to Gyulagarak village. From Gyulagarak, it's approximately 1.5 km walk to the Dendropark entrance. Bus fare from Yerevan to Vanadzor ranges from $12-$29. A taxi from Vanadzor to Gyulagarak will cost approximately 1,000 AMD.

  • Taxi

    From Stepanavan, a taxi to the Dendropark costs around 1,000 AMD. The park is located 11km south of Stepanavan in Gyulagarak village. Tell the driver you want to go to Stepanavan Dendropark in Gyulagarak.

  • Walking

    From the center of Gyulagarak village, follow the main road (WFPH+GCR) for about 1.5 kilometers. The park entrance will be on your left. Look for signs pointing to Stepanavan Dendropark as you approach.

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Discover more about Stepanavan Dendropark

Stepanavan Dendropark, officially named Sochut Dendropark after its founder Edmund Leonowicz, is a remarkable botanical garden located near the village of Gyulagarak in the Lori Province of Armenia. Situated approximately 155 km north of Yerevan, this 35-hectare arboretum was established in 1931 by Polish engineer-forester Edmon Leonowicz. Leonowicz's vision transformed a natural forest landscape into a unique forest park, the first of its kind in the Transcaucasus. The park is divided into two main sections: 17.5 hectares of natural forest and 15 hectares of ornamental trees. Over the years, the Dendropark has served as a testing ground for over 2,500 plant species, with approximately 500 adapting to the region's climate. The park's collection includes a wide variety of trees and plants from different parts of the world, including the beautiful Magnolia, Larch Larix Decidua, evergreen cypress, Siberian pine, Cryptomeria, and Sequoiadendron. Notably, the park features five Californian sequoias that will continue to grow for hundreds of years. Visitors can explore the park's winding footpaths and vistas, discovering diverse flora from regions like the Far East, Germany, France, Portugal, China, and the United States. The park is considered a miraculous place where all cherished dreams can be fulfilled. There is a small wooden bridge in the park, and it is believed that if you are crossing it for the first time, then you can make a wish, and be sure it will come true. The best time to visit Stepanavan Dendropark is from July to November. The park is also popular in late May and early June during the pine pollen season when people visit to alleviate asthma symptoms.

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