Are you planning a trip to Armenia? Located wondrously in the Caucasus Mountains, the country is blessed in history and demography. Armenia has a lot to offer and there are so many mysteries waiting to be discovered. It is a newly uncovered tourist destination for travelers from all around the world. But before you start packing your bags or thinking about how to plan a trip to Armenia, let us give you a brief introduction to the country's weather, culture, background and specialty.

Culture and History of Armenia

Regardless of having an ancient background that dates back 6 millennials, Armenia has successfully kept its culture alive. Several civilizations thrived and have seen a downfall over the years, surprisingly - Armenia has outlived them all, preserving its traditions and customs. The archaeological studies and proofs are enough to speak for the nation's age. According to modern theories, it existed already in 4000 BC. So if you are planning a trip to Armenia, expect to be blown away by ruins, monasteries and other architectural wonders.

Nature and Geography of Armenia

Armenia is rich in its natural diversity, considering its small area of about 29,000 km2. Ranging from bewitching green canyons to semi-desert lands and the four-peaked volcano mount Aragats, Armenia has got awe-inspiring geographical features. The biggest lake of the Caucasus region is also found in Armenia, Lake Sevan. It is the blue pearl of the nation. The lake is surrounded by a 360° view of the mountains, villages, and small islands.

Best season to visit

When planning a trip to Armenia, you must know that the Armenian weather cycle consists of all seasons. It has sweaty summers to chilly winters with a lot of snowfall in most parts of the country. The nation's hottest months would be from June to September. During this time the temperature can range from 37°C to 40°C. However, guests can enjoy fine cool winds in the evening from the mountains. The temperature can also vary based on your location in the country. Generally north is not as hot as the south in the summers.

Armenian Seasonal Changes

Every season in this Caucasian country has its own charm and appeal. If you like hiking then sign up for a trek through the stunning autumn landscapes and hills. You can also try snowboarding and skiing in winter. We advise visiting Tsaghkadzor spa town during this time of year. For the summers, opt for chilling out under the shade of green trees in the guesthouses of Dilijan guesthouses. When visiting in spring, you will witness the blooming of vibrant and sweet-smelling flowers in the Armenian valleys.

Reasons for planning a trip to Armenia

Armenian culture and the present are largely indebted to its inheritance of various traditions from the Silk Road era. It is unique and distinctive in its own way. This has helped Armenia stand out as an optimal travel destination. Armenia might be small but the presence of multiple UNESCO recognized World Heritage Sites, makes it worth visiting. Most of them include ancient churches, cathedrals and monasteries which is no surprise then according to the historic records, Armenia is said to be the first country in the world to completely embrace Christianity as its official state religion. We are talking about 301 AD here, which means this was about 1700 years ago! There are so many offbeat locations and traditions in Armenia that travelers and backpackers yet can discover including Armenian Duduk, Khor Virap Monastery, Lavash (Bread), Ararat Brandy, Armenian Carpets, Khachkars (Stone Art), and the list keeps growing!

A land filled with mysticism and colorful culture, Armenia is a land of historic imagination. When you step in here you will feel like you have entered a whole new world. There are so many places to visit in Armenia, no matter if you are taking an adventurous trip or a family vacation.
With a prospering past that is linked with the legends of the Silk Road and the inclusion of Mount Ararat in the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, it is a great place to visit. But what is famous in Armenia? What are the recommended or offbeat locations to visit? No more stressing out with this question, here we have 5 places to visit in Armenia!

Witness Lake Sevan

One of the most visited tourist destinations in Armenia would probably be Lake Sevan. Blessed with mind-boggling beauty and refreshing greenery, this lake has clean blue water and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains on all sides. People looking for a getaway from the busy city life must visit this place. It is located around 66km away from the capital city of Yerevan. The size of the lake is 1,900m and is locally known as the ‘Pearl of Armenia’. You can take your friends or family here for a fun holiday and perform various water sports. This is a great place for photographers as well, they can capture panoramic shots of the lake and hills around it.

Unlock the mysteries of Karahunj

Karahunj is found around 200 km away from Yerevan, the largest Armenian city. It is also the next best place to explore on your trip to Armenia. But what is so special about this place? And what is the mystery? Karahunj is like an Armenian Stonehenge. There are around 200 large stones on the site and each one has a 5 cm diameter hole. Scientists are still studying the origin and use of these rocks; they are still in a dilemma and have no answers. The mystery remains unsolved. 

The marvels of Dilijan National Park

Dilijan National Park is a great place for visitors to take a close look at the natural marvels of Armenia. The park was founded in 2002 to safeguard a multitude of medicinal mineral water springs, natural monuments and various other aspects. You will be able to take a quick peek into the vibrant and diverse Armenian culture. The park also has several other worth-visiting sites like Jukhtak Vank, Goshavank Monastery and Haghartsin Monastery.

Up to Tatev Monastery

Found 253 km away from Yerevan city, Tatev Monastery is another Armenian wonder that is worth exploring when taking a trip there. You don’t need to arrange for many resources to visit this place, you just have to book a taxi/cab to the monastery. Upon reaching the complex, you will be greeted with a view of the special intricately carved medieval structures of this monastery which was built around the 9th century AD. There is also a gorgeous view of the mountain range in the background and the longest non-stop double track cable car ride in the whole world (Guinness World Records). 

When planning a holiday trip, Armenia might not be the first name that pops up in your mind. However, Armenia is a great travel destination for different types of people. There are so many things to do in Armenia to enjoy your vacation to the fullest! Here are the top 5 things to do in Armenia that you can try when on a tour of this Caucasian nation.

Get yourself a pair of wings at the Tatev Monastery

Tatev monastery is the first site on the checklist of places to see when visiting Armenia. The monastery was known to be an educational and religious preaching center back in the middle ages. Where are the wings? Well this Guinness Book of Records recognition holder, the ‘Wings of Tatev’ is alternatively known as the longest reversible cableway in the world. When taking a ride you will have a clear, aerial view of the monastery and surrounding mountains. You will also be taken over the gushing Vorotan River. This 12-minute route with a distance of 3.5 miles will make your Armenia trip well worth remembering. The start point is at the Halidzor village and the track leads 320 m up to the monastery. It is also the shortest way up to the Tatev Monastery.

Just some Hiking things to do in Armenia

Armenia is the world's first country ever to establish its official religion as Christianity. This means that there are numerous monasteries, churches and cathedrals set between lush green forests, beautiful valleys and mountains. This calls out to all the adventurous and enthusiastic hikers and trekkers. The top best places to visit while trekking in Armenia would include Etchmiadzin Cathedral and churches of Vagharshapat, Sanahin and Haghpat Byzantine monastery from the 10th century, Geghard Monastery in Upper Azat Valley and there are many many more. You can also take a quick walk along the river Azat from the Garni temple. You will be amazed to see basalt column cliffs and multiple rock formations.

Looking at the Planets from Byurakan Observatory

The Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory can be found in Byurakan village and is a major astrophysics research center of Armenia. You can spot it from a far distance, crediting to its large silver domes. The guests at the observatory are exposed to what once was the largest telescope of the USSR, a 2.6m Cassegrain reflector. You can also see a wide collection of observatory artifacts related to astrophysical studies and learn more about space. What is more interesting is that the visitors are allowed to use a powerful telescope to get a closer view of planets, stars and the moon. When taking a family trip, make sure you visit this observatory.

Stepping into the Wonderland; Khosrov Forest State Reserve

The Khosrov Forest State Reserve is the best option for outdoor, environment/nature and animal lovers. You are able to witness the widest and richest possible biodiversity in whole Armenia. Founded about 1400 years ago by Armenian King Khosrov II Kotak, the state reserve has more than 6000 Caucasus flora species and about 3500 endemic flora species. Out of 283 vertebrae species, the few most commonly spotted ones by the visitors are the Bezoar goat, the Caspian Snowcock and Caucasian leopards.