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Mount Ara: The Legend of Ara the Beautiful

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Explore Mount Ara, a majestic peak steeped in Armenian legend, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the country's rich history and natural beauty.

Mount Ara, a striking volcanic mountain in Armenia, is steeped in legend, named after the Armenian king Ara the Beautiful. Its silhouette resembles a sleeping man, adding to its mystique and drawing hikers and history enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Гора Ара

  • CF26+JP, Karbi, AM

Local tips

  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
  • Carry plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Consider visiting the Tsaghkevank cave monastery on the southern slope of the mountain.
  • Be aware that the hike can be moderately challenging, so assess your fitness level beforehand.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Mount Ara via public transport, take a minibus (marshrutka) from Yerevan to Ashtarak. Minibuses depart frequently from Yerevan Central Bus Station. From Ashtarak, take another minibus to Karbi. Inform the driver you want to get off at CF26+JP, the location of Mount Ara. The total travel time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The marshrutka fare is typically 300-500 AMD each way. From Karbi, you can hike to Mount Ara.

  • Car

    If driving, head towards Karbi. From Mount Aragats, drive south until the turnoff for Karbi. Follow the road signs to Karbi, about a 30-minute drive from Mount Aragats' base. Use a GPS or map to navigate to CF26+JP in Karbi, the location of Mount Ara. Parking is available near the site. Note that the drive from Yerevan to Karbi is about 40 km and takes approximately 38 minutes. Taxi from Yerevan to Ara will cost approximately $12-$16.

  • Hiking

    For those who reach Karbi, either by car or public transport, you can hike to Гора Ара. Start your hike from the center of Karbi, following the paths that lead towards the mountainous area. The hike is moderately challenging and will take approximately 1-2 hours depending on your pace. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and carry water. The views along the hike are scenic and rewarding.

Discover more about Гора Ара

Mount Ara, or Гора Ара, is a captivating volcanic mountain located in the Aragatsotn region of Armenia. Rising to a height of 2,577 meters (8,455 feet), it stands between the Kasakh and Hrazdan rivers. The mountain's distinctive feature is its silhouette, which, when viewed from a distance, resembles a reclining human figure. This has fueled the legend that the mountain is the resting place of King Ara the Beautiful. According to the legend, King Ara, known for his exceptional beauty, was desired by the Assyrian Queen Semiramis. When Ara refused her advances, Semiramis waged war against Armenia. Ara was killed in the battle, and Semiramis, according to some versions of the story, attempted to revive him through magic. The mountain is said to be his body, forever lying in repose. Mount Ara is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The slopes are covered in meadows, and the area boasts a rich variety of flora, with approximately 650 species of vascular plants, representing 20% of Armenia's plant life. The mountain is accessible for visits from March through late autumn, with the specific season depending on weather conditions. On the southern slope of the mountain lies the Tsaghkevank cave monastery, also known as the Saint Varvara Monastery, a site of pilgrimage. Climbing Mount Ara offers not only a physical challenge but also a chance to connect with Armenian history and folklore, with panoramic views of Mount Ararat and Mount Aragats as a reward.

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