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Armaghan Mountain: Armenia's Crater Lake Gem

Hike to Armenia's Mount Armaghan for stunning views, a crater lake, and a mountaintop church. A moderate climb with rewarding vistas.

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Mount Armaghan, an extinct volcano in Armenia's Gegharkunik Province, offers stunning views, a crater lake, and a small church at its summit. A moderate hike leads to this natural and spiritual haven, rewarding visitors with panoramic vistas and a tranquil alpine setting.

A brief summary to Armaghan mountain

  • 3697+VHC, Madina, AM

Local tips

  • Wear hiking shoes as the trail can be rocky and steep in places.
  • Visit between May and September for the best weather conditions.
  • Bring water and snacks as there are no facilities on the mountain.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the summit can be foggy.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Yerevan, take the M4 highway towards Sevan. Continue past Lake Sevan towards Martuni. From Martuni, follow the road towards Madina. Once in Madina, a rough, unpaved road leads to Mount Armaghan. An SUV with high clearance is recommended due to the bumpy conditions. Be aware that the road is steep and rocky.

  • Hiking

    The hike to the summit begins near Madina. The trail is approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) and gains about 523 meters in elevation. The path is rocky and can be steep in sections, but the views are well worth the effort. Allow 5-6 hours for a round trip.

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Discover more about Armaghan mountain

Mount Armaghan, standing at 2829 meters, is an extinct volcano located in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia. This natural monument is part of the Geghama mountain range and presents a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. The mountain's slopes are covered in lush alpine vegetation, creating a vibrant green landscape. The climb, though steep in some sections, is generally considered moderate, making it accessible to both beginner and experienced hikers. The effort is well worth it, as the summit reveals a breathtaking view: a crater lake that partially fills the volcanic crater. This lake, often described as a mirror reflecting the sky, adds to the serene atmosphere of the mountaintop. In 2009, a domed basalt church was constructed on the site of a former chapel, adding a spiritual dimension to the location. The church and the surrounding area are considered a sanctuary, with ancient gravestones nearby bearing pre-Christian symbols. Local legends add to the mystique, with tales of heavenly fairies descending to drink from the lake, shrouding the summit in fog to remain unseen. From the peak, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Sevan, Mount Ararat, and the Geghama Mountains. The combination of natural beauty, spiritual presence, and manageable hiking trails makes Mount Armaghan a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

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