Ughtasar Lake: Armenia's Ancient Petroglyph Treasure
Discover ancient petroglyphs and breathtaking scenery at Ughtasar Lake, a remote treasure in the Armenian Highlands.
Ughtasar Lake, nestled in the Syunik mountains, is a high-altitude glacial lake famed for the thousands of ancient petroglyphs surrounding it. Carved into volcanic stones, these petroglyphs offer a glimpse into Armenia's prehistoric past, dating back as far as 12,000 BCE.
A brief summary to Ughtasar Lake
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Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to explore the rocky terrain and petroglyphs.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Consider visiting during the off-peak season (July-September) for a more tranquil experience.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lakeshore while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Getting There
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Car
The most common way to reach Ughtasar Lake is by car, specifically a 4x4 vehicle due to the rough terrain. From the town of Sisian, head north towards the village of Ishkhanasar. The unpaved road from Ishkhanasar to Ughtasar is approximately 17 km and climbs 1400m. This road is rough and requires a vehicle suited for off-road conditions. There are no tolls. Parking is available near the lake, but it can be limited. A driver and vehicle can be hired in Sisian for approximately 15,000-25,000 AMD.
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Public Transport
To reach Ughtasar Lake via public transport, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Goris to Kapan. From Kapan, hire a taxi or local guide to reach Ughtasar Lake. Negotiate the taxi fare beforehand, typically costing around 3,000-5,000 AMD, and the ride can take about an hour. Note that public transport will only get you as far as Kapan, and the remaining journey requires a private arrangement.
Discover more about Ughtasar Lake
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Unmissable attractions to see
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