Armenia's Northern Pearl

This route connects the high-altitude Lake Sevan, medieval monasteries, and the green forests of Dilijan. Over the course of one day, the scenery changes several times — from the open shores of Sevan to the forest roads of Tavush and the small Lake Parz.

The journey begins at Lake Sevan — one of the main natural symbols of Armenia.

The lake sits at an altitude of about 1,900 meters above sea level and is surrounded by mountain ranges. Here we will make a stop to take in the panorama of Sevan and climb up to the peninsula.

On the high ground stands the Sevanavank Monastery.

The surviving churches of the monastery complex date back to the 9th century. According to historical sources, the monastery's construction is linked to the Armenian princess Mariam, daughter of Ashot I Bagratuni.

Today Sevanavank is known not only for its history but also for its location: from the monastery grounds opens one of the most recognizable panoramas of Lake Sevan.

After Sevan we head to Dilijan. Along the way the landscape gradually changes — the open mountain expanses give way to the dense forests of the Tavush region.

The next stop is Old Dilijan.

Walking through the historic part of the town, you will see traditional houses with wooden balconies, small craft workshops, and architecture that conveys the atmosphere of old Dilijan.

Next we head into the forests of Dilijan National Park to the Haghartsin Monastery.

The main part of the monastery complex was built between the 10th and 13th centuries. Haghartsin was an important spiritual and cultural center of medieval Armenia.

A distinctive feature of this place is the combination of architecture and nature. The stone churches stand almost in the middle of dense forest, so the atmosphere here changes with every season.

The next historical point on the route is the Goshavank Monastery.

The monastery complex was founded at the end of the 12th century and is associated with the name of Mkhitar Gosh — an outstanding Armenian thinker, scholar, and lawmaker.

In the Middle Ages, Goshavank was a major educational and cultural center. Theology, philosophy, and other sciences were studied here, and manuscripts were created and copied.

The famous Armenian khachkars — stone crosses with the finest carving — deserve special attention.

After the rich historical part of the route, we head to Lake Parz, located among the forests of Dilijan National Park.

The name "Parz" translates from Armenian as "clear" or "transparent."

This small forest lake is surrounded by trees and mountains. Time is allotted here for walking, relaxing, and taking photos in nature.

It is here, among the forests by Lake Parz, that our journey through one of the greenest parts of Armenia comes to an end.

Who this tour is for

This route suits those who want to combine nature and the history of Armenia in one trip.

In a single day you will see high-altitude Sevan, stroll through Old Dilijan, visit the medieval monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank, and end the journey at the forest Lake Parz.

We especially recommend this route to lovers of lakes, forests, medieval architecture, quiet walks, and beautiful natural landscapes.