Lake Sevan covers 940 square kilometers and occupies almost a quarter of Gegharkunik’s area. Sevan National Park lies in the lake basin and protects highland ecosystems. There are 267 bird species in the park and its buffer zone. The Artanish Peninsula is also a natural area: it provides habitat for many of these birds and is home to around 34 mammal species. The lake, protected area and peninsula offer different perspectives on the region’s landscape and wildlife.
Lake, Mountains and Highland Nature
Gegharkunik is shaped by the Gegham, Vardenis, Sevan and Miapor mountain ranges. Their elevations range from 2,500 to 3,500 meters. Mount Azhdahak, at 3,597 meters, is the highest point in Gegharkunik and a dormant volcano. Several hiking trails lead to its summit. Because of its remote location, guided jeep or hiking tours with local guides or adventure travel operators are recommended. If you plan to visit the summit, take this recommendation into account.
Various cycling routes are also described. One runs from the village of Drakhtik on Lake Sevan through the Areguni Mountains to Kalavan. Another starts in the village of Tsovagyugh and also leads to Kalavan. The details about the starting points and routes help distinguish the two options: the route from Drakhtik includes both the lake and the Areguni Mountains in its description, while the other starts in Tsovagyugh.
Monasteries and Khachkars
Sevanavank 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. Sevanavank is also known as the Black Monastery. Another historic stop on Lake Sevan is Hayravank: the monastery dates from the 9th to 12th centuries and sits on a rocky outcrop above the lake. You can reach Hayravank by train to the town of Sevan, then by taxi to the monastery. Check current transport options and timetables before planning your trip.
In Noratus, more than 900 intricately carved khachkars can be seen in the cemetery. A hiking trail leads from there to the Noratus Peninsula. The route to the Noratus Peninsula runs between the white cliffs of Noratus and a large pine forest. You can therefore explore historic stone carvings and a described hiking route as two distinct regional experiences, without combining them into a single fixed tour.
Trails and Activities on the Water
Kayak tours are offered on Lake Sevan and the Getik River; several tour operators offer them around the Sevan Peninsula. Visitors can try windsurfing and water skiing at Shorzha Beach on Lake Sevan. There are also sandy beaches, beach cafés and numerous water sports on the shores near the town of Sevan and on the Sevan Peninsula. Tour options and beach services can change. If a kayak tour or a particular beach activity is important to your plans, check availability in advance.
Lake Sevan also offers a seasonal opportunity: when conditions allow, it is suitable for wild ice skating. This activity is explicitly dependent on conditions. It therefore differs from the water sports mentioned above and should not be planned without considering conditions.
Regional Cuisine
A local fish to try is ishkhan trout from Lake Sevan, which you can sample grilled. Gavar kyufte is another regional specialty: it is made with minced meat, onions, egg and a little flour, seasoned with salt and then boiled. The two dishes showcase different aspects of regional cuisine—fish from the lake and a boiled dish made with minced meat.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Sevan, Tsapatagh, Kalavan, Wardenis, Nerkin Getashen, Martuni, Tsamakaberd, Chkalovka.
For the main travel overview: Armenia.
