Mount Aragats - The Majestic Peak of Armenia

Discover Mount Aragats, Armenia's highest peak, where adventure, history, and natural beauty converge in a spectacular display of landscapes and experiences.

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Mount Aragats

Mount Aragats, the highest peak in Armenia, stands tall at 4,090 meters. This dormant volcano offers breathtaking views and a diverse landscape, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The mountain is located in the Aragatsotn Province and is accessible from the city of Ashtarak. Hikers and climbers can choose from four summits, each with varying difficulty levels. The southern summit is the easiest to reach, while the northern summit is the highest and most challenging. In addition to hiking, visitors can explore the ancient Amberd Fortress and the Vahramashen Church, both nestled on the slopes of Mount Aragats. During the spring and summer months, the mountain's meadows burst into a riot of colors with wildflowers in full bloom, offering a picturesque setting for photographers and nature lovers alike. Winter transforms Mount Aragats into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing. The mountain's varied terrain and stunning vistas make it a year-round destination, offering something for everyone.

Local tips in Mount Aragats

Visit during late spring or early summer for the best hiking conditions and to see the wildflowers in bloom.
Wear layered clothing, as temperatures can vary greatly between the base and the summit.
Carry sufficient water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on the mountain.
Hire a local guide if you're unfamiliar with the terrain or planning to summit the northern peak.
Check weather conditions before your trip, as sudden changes can occur, especially at higher elevations.
Don't miss visiting the Amberd Fortress and Vahramashen Church for a glimpse into Armenia's rich history.

File:Mount Aragats from Gyumri-Yerevan road (2).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Amberd Fortress ^ Ararat, Mount Aragats, Aragatsotn, Armenia - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Բյուրականի աստղադիտարան.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Saghmosavank 2023.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Tegher Monastery.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Lake Kari, ՎԱՍ.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Mount Aragats?

Unmissable attractions to see

Harichavank

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Harichavank, a captivating Armenian monastery nestled in stunning landscapes.

Trchkan Waterfall

Experience the breathtaking Trchkan Waterfall in Dzorashen, a hidden gem surrounded by lush nature and perfect for adventure seekers.

Arshakid Kings Mausoleum

Explore the Arshakid Kings Mausoleum in Aghdzk, Armenia - a stunning historical landmark revealing the legacy of an ancient dynasty.

Karas Wines

Experience the finest wines of Armenia at Karas Wines, where tradition meets modern winemaking in a beautiful vineyard setting.

large waterfall in Aragats

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the large waterfall in Aragats, a hidden gem for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers in Armenia.

Rapi pond

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rapi Pond in Geghadzor, a serene hiking area perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Lake Alphabet

Experience the tranquil beauty of Lake Alphabet in Artashavan, a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and those seeking peaceful relaxation.

Cross Nor Yerznka

Explore the captivating Cross Nor Yerznka – a serene tourist attraction that blends rich Armenian history with breathtaking natural beauty.

River Park

Discover the peaceful beauty of River Park in Ashtarak, a serene escape into nature’s embrace, perfect for relaxation and family activities.

Гора Ара

Explore the breathtaking Ara Mountain in Armenia, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers with rich history and stunning landscapes.

Гора Арагац

Explore Гора Арагатц, Armenia's highest mountain, offering breathtaking hikes and stunning panoramic views for nature enthusiasts.

Lake Umroy

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Lake Umroy in Aragats, a perfect destination for hiking and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

Small waterfall in Aragats

Explore the tranquil Small Waterfall in Aragats, a hidden gem perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.

Սեղանատուն

Experience the tranquil charm of Ohanavan, a captivating Armenian village perfect for immersing in local culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Manukyan Brandy Factory

Discover the artistry of Armenian brandy-making at Manukyan Brandy Factory in Balahovit, where tradition meets taste in every exquisite sip.

Essential places to dine

Aragats restaurant

Discover authentic Armenian flavors at Aragats Restaurant, nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes in Armenia.

Aragats Restaurant

Discover authentic Armenian cuisine at Aragats Restaurant amidst breathtaking mountain views.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Армен и Я

Explore the cultural treasures of Armenia at Армен и Я, a charming store in Ashtarak offering unique local products and warm hospitality.

Aragats Super Market

Discover the flavors and culture of Armenia at Aragats Super Market, a vibrant hub for local shopping and community.

Արթիկի մոմաթերթի արտադրամաս և վաճառակետ

Discover the art of candle making in Artik, Armenia. Experience handcrafted beauty and local craftsmanship in a charming workshop setting.

ԽԱՆՈՒԹ

Explore the unique offerings of ԽԱՆՈՒԹ in Pemzashen - a treasure trove of local crafts, delicacies, and authentic Armenian experiences.

Մարկետ

Explore local flavors at Մարկետ in Aragats, where fresh produce and authentic Armenian products await your discovery.

Cache chache

Discover the charm of Cache Chache, a delightful gift shop in Dian offering unique souvenirs and local crafts to capture your travel memories.

Սիմբա մոլ

Explore Simba Mall in Artik, where shopping meets local culture and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.

Մացո

Explore Matzow in Artik for a unique shopping experience with local crafts and Armenian treasures.

HK Design Shop

Explore HK Design Shop in Artik for unique handcrafted gifts reflecting Armenia's rich cultural heritage and artistry.

armen piliposyan a dz

Discover the charm of Armen Piliposyan, a unique supermarket in Aparan offering local products and a taste of Armenian culture.

Մանկական Աշխարհ

Explore Mankakan Ashxar in Aparan for unique clothing that showcases local fashion and culture, perfect for tourists seeking memorable souvenirs.

Ssn Mobile

Discover a wide array of mobile accessories and essentials at Ssn Mobile in Artik, your ultimate shopping destination in Armenia.

From Me To You

Discover unique Armenian treasures at 'From Me To You,' a charming gift shop in Ashtarak offering local crafts and souvenirs.

Grand Market

Explore Grand Market in Aparan for a unique shopping experience filled with local culture, fresh produce, and traditional Armenian crafts.

Wildbarries

Explore Wildbarries, a charming store in Mets Mantash, offering unique local products and a taste of Armenian culture through artisan crafts and delicious treats.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar in Yerevan, where local flavors meet an eclectic atmosphere in the heart of the city.

DABOO Cocktail Bar

Experience Yerevan's nightlife at DABOO Cocktail Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.

El Sky Bar

Experience Yerevan's nightlife at El Sky Bar, where stunning views and exquisite cocktails create unforgettable moments.

Simona

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Yerevan at Simona, a lively bar offering delicious drinks and an inviting atmosphere for all visitors.

Yankee Pub

Discover the lively atmosphere of Yankee Pub in Yerevan, where local culture and great drinks come together for an unforgettable experience.

Tol Bar

Discover Tol Bar in Gyumri: A vibrant blend of coffee shop charm and bar energy, perfect for relaxation and socializing.

EL Chillout

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant nightlife at EL Chillout, nestled in the heart of Yerevan's Tsitsernakaberd park.

Սուրբ Գրիգոր (SargisLox)

Discover the charm of SargisLox, a vibrant bar in Charentsavan, offering delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

Smoke Bar Charencavan

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Smoke Bar Charencavan, where great drinks and friendly vibes create unforgettable memories.

Beer Corner

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beer Corner in Gyumri, where local brews and camaraderie await every visitor.

Rom Beer

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Alapars at Rom Beer, where local culture meets a diverse selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

Ախուրիկ չռիկ

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Akhurik Chrik, a local bar in Armenia where friendly service meets delightful beverages in a charming setting.

Shelby pub

Discover Shelby Pub in Gyumri - a lively bar serving traditional Armenian cuisine and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.

Restaurant

Experience the authentic Armenian hospitality at Tsilkar's vibrant bar, where culture and flavor come together in a cozy atmosphere.

HAGIS разливное пиво

Discover the rich flavors of local and international beers at HAGIS разливное пиво, a vibrant beer hall in Artik perfect for tourists and locals alike.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Mount Aragats

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

Local Phrases about Mount Aragats

- HelloԲարև
  [Barev]
- GoodbyeՑտեսնություն
  [Tsdesnutyun]
- YesԱյո
  [Ayo]
- NoՈչ
  [Voç]
- Please/You're welcomeԽնդրում եմ
  [Khndrum em]
- Thank youՇնորհակալություն
  [Shnorhakalutyun]
- Excuse me/SorryՆերողություն
  [Neroghutyun]
- How are you?Ինչպես եք?
  [Inchpes ek?]
- Fine. And you?Լավ եմ։ Ինչպես եք?
  [Lav em. Inchpes ek?]
- Do you speak English?Ասում եք անգլերեն?
  [Asum ek angleren?]
- I don't understandՉեմ հասկանում
  [Chem haskanum]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseԽնդրում եմ մենյունը տեսնել
  [Khndrum em menyunə tesnel]
- I don't eat meatԵս միայն միս ուտում եմ
  [Yes miayn mis utum em]
- Cheers!Ընկերություն!
  [Əngərutyun]
- I would like to pay, pleaseԽնդրում եմ վճարել
  [Khndrum em vcharəl]
- Help!Օրինար!
  [Orinar!]
- Go away!Միացր
  [Miatsʿr]
- Call the Police!Հետաքրքրեք հայրապետիկ
  [Hetakʿrkʿrekʿ hayrapetik]
- Call a doctor!Հետաքրքրեք բժշկին
  [Hetakʿrkʿrekʿ bžškin]
- I'm lostԿենացամ
  [Kenatsʿam]
- I'm illԵս հիվանդ եմ
  [Yes hivanəd em]
- I'd like to buy...Խնդրում եմ գնել
  [Khndrum em gnel]
- I'm just lookingՄիայն տեսնում եմ
  [Miayn tesnum em]
- How much is it?Քանի է դառնալիքը?
  [Qani e darənəlikə?]
- That's too expensiveԴառնալիքը շատ է
  [Darənəlikə shat e]
- Can you lower the price?Կարող եք փնտրել գինը?
  [Karog ek pntrel ginə?]
- What time is it?Տեսա ժամը որպեսզի
  [Tesa žamə vorpəz]
- It's one o'clockԵրկուսը ժամ է
  [Yerkusə žam e]
- Half past (10)Այսպես (10)
  [Ayspəs (10)]
- MorningԱռավոտ
  [Arawot]
- AfternoonԿերակրություն
  [Kerakrutyun]
- EveningԵրեկո
  [Ereyko]
- YesterdayԵրեկ
  [Ereyk]
- TodayԱյսօր
  [Aysor]
- TomorrowՎաղը
  [Vaġə]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Որտեղ է ...?
  [Vortegh e ...?]
- What's the address?Ինչ է հասցեն?
  [Inch e hascen?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Կարող եք ցույց տալ (քարտուզին)?
  [Karog ek tsuytsʿ tal (kartuzin)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Երբ է հաջորդ միավորը?
  [Yerp e hajord miavorə?]
- A ticket (to ....)Բիլետ (...)
  [Bilet (...)]

History of Mount Aragats

Mount Aragats is a majestic stratovolcano located in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia. It is the highest peak in the country, standing at 4,090 meters above sea level. The mountain's name is derived from an ancient Armenian legend, where it was named after the Armenian god Ara. It is believed that the mountain was formed during the Pleistocene epoch, with its volcanic activity ceasing approximately 0.5-1 million years ago.
Located on the slopes of Mount Aragats, the Amberd Fortress is a 7th-century medieval fortress that was strategically built to oversee the Ararat Plain. The fortress, whose name translates to 'fortress in the clouds,' played a crucial role in the defense against Arab invasions. The remains of a church, bathhouse, and walls can still be explored today, offering a glimpse into Armenia's medieval past.
In 1943, the Cosmic Ray Research Station was established on Mount Aragats by Armenian physicist Artem Alikhanyan. The station was a significant scientific achievement for Armenia, contributing to the study of cosmic rays and high-energy astrophysics. The research conducted here has provided valuable insights into the behavior of cosmic particles and their impact on Earth's atmosphere.
Mount Aragats is renowned for its four distinct peaks, each representing a different cardinal direction. According to Armenian folklore, these peaks symbolize the four sons of the god Ara and their eternal vigil over the land. The highest of these peaks is Northern Aragats, followed by the Western, Eastern, and Southern peaks. This legend adds a layer of mystique and cultural significance to the mountain.
Mount Aragats has been a symbol of Armenian resilience and independence. During the Armenian independence movement in the early 20th century, the mountain served as a natural fortress and refuge for Armenian fighters resisting Ottoman and Soviet forces. Its rugged terrain and remote location provided a strategic advantage in the struggle for national sovereignty.
Every summer, Mount Aragats becomes the focal point of the Aragatsotn Trekking Festival, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and trekkers from around the world. The festival celebrates the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, offering guided treks, cultural performances, and local cuisine. This event highlights the mountain's significance as both a natural wonder and a cultural landmark.

Mount Aragats Essentials

Mount Aragats is located about 40 kilometers northwest of Armenia's capital, Yerevan. The nearest international airport is Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan. From Yerevan, travelers can take a taxi or a rented car to reach Mount Aragats. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Public transportation options include minibuses (marshrutkas) that operate from Yerevan to nearby towns such as Ashtarak, from where you can hire a taxi to take you to the base of Mount Aragats.
While exploring Mount Aragats, renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and convenience. Taxis are also available but might be more expensive. For the more adventurous, hitchhiking is relatively common and generally safe in Armenia. Public transportation like marshrutkas are available but may not reach all the scenic and remote spots around the mountain.
The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas or visiting local markets. ATMs are available in Yerevan and larger towns, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading up to Mount Aragats.
Mount Aragats and its surrounding areas are generally safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas after dark and keeping a close watch on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant. Ensure you have appropriate gear and supplies if you plan to hike, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. It's important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in nearby towns like Ashtarak. If you experience any serious health problems or accidents, the nearest major medical facilities are in Yerevan. Always inform someone about your travel plans and expected return time when hiking.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking boots, as weather can be unpredictable. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites. 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 Mount Aragats like a local, visit during the summer months when locals often hike and picnic on the mountain. Engage with local shepherds you may encounter along the trails, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories. Don't miss the chance to explore the Amberd Fortress and Vahramashen Church located on the slopes of Mount Aragats. For a unique experience, try the traditional Armenian barbecue (khorovats) at one of the local eateries.

Mount Aragats - The Majestic Peak of Armenia

Local tips in Mount Aragats