Gegharkunik: Lake Sevan, Monasteries and Highland Nature

Lake Sevan shapes Gegharkunik not only as a striking body of water: at 940 square kilometers, it covers almost a quarter of the province. The panorama stretches from the lake to the Gegham, Vardenis, Sevan and Miapor mountain ranges, whose elevations range from 2,500 to 3,500 meters. Mount Azhdahak adds a distinctive landmark at 3,597 meters: it is the highest point in Gegharkunik and a dormant volcano.

Highlands, Lake and Wildlife

Lake Sevan National Park lies in the Lake Sevan basin and protects highland ecosystems. There are 267 bird species in the park and its buffer zone. The Artanish Peninsula provides habitat for many of these species and is also home to around 34 mammal species. Alongside the expansive landscapes, the habitats around the lake are therefore a central part of the region’s natural environment.

Several hiking trails lead to the summit of Mount Azhdahak. Because of its remote location, it is recommended that you reach the summit on guided jeep or hiking tours with local guides or adventure tour operators. If you are planning this highland trip, check the current tours and route conditions in advance.

Monasteries and Khachkars

Sevanavank Monastery, also called the Black Monastery, stands on the Sevan Peninsula. It was built in the 9th century on the site of a 4th-century monastery that had been destroyed by Arab invasions. Hayravank offers a different perspective on the monastic landscape: the monastery dates from the 9th to 12th centuries and sits on a rocky outcrop above Lake Sevan.

Noratus is also an important site for Armenian stone carving. The Noratus cemetery contains more than 900 elaborately carved khachkars, or cross-stones. A hiking trail leads from there to the Noratus Peninsula, between the white cliffs of Noratus and a large pine forest. Monastery architecture and carved stones offer different points of interest for travelers interested in the region’s history and culture.

Hayravank can be reached by train to the city of Sevan, followed by a taxi ride. Check current timetables and connections as you plan your trip.

Enjoy the Water and Trails Actively

Kayak tours are available on Lake Sevan and the Getik River; several tour operators run them around the Sevan Peninsula. Visitors can try windsurfing and water skiing at Shorzha Beach. The shores near the city of Sevan and the Sevan Peninsula also have sandy beaches, beach cafés and a wide range of water sports. If you have a particular activity in mind, check what is currently available in advance.

There are also different ways to explore the region on land. Cycling routes run from the village of Drakhtik on Lake Sevan through the Areguni Mountains to Kalavan; another cycling tour goes from Tsovagyugh to Kalavan. The two routes have different starting points, and the route from Drakhtik is specifically described as passing through the Areguni Mountains. Horse-riding tours are organized in the Martuni area and in the village of Drakhtik; ask about current options. Trail and route conditions can change, so it is a good idea to check them before setting out.

When conditions permit, Lake Sevan is suitable for wild ice skating. This option depends specifically on the weather, so it requires different planning from a tour with a described route.

Local Cuisine and Planning the Right Trip

Local cuisine includes a variety of specialties: Ishkhan trout from Lake Sevan is recommended grilled. Gavar kyufta is a boiled dish made with ground meat, onions, egg and a little flour, seasoned with salt. Together, the two dishes offer a taste of Gegharkunik’s distinct culinary traditions.

Next, check which location of a specific hotel suits the destinations you have selected.

Discover more destinations: Sevan, Tsapatagh, Kalavan, Vardenis, Nerkin Getashen, Martuni, Tsamakaberd, Chkalovka

For the broader travel overview: Armenia.