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Sep 19, 2025
Horseback riding: Garni-Khosrov waterfalls
We start the horse riding at 9:00 from the Garni Gorge. We cross the Azat River and enter the Khosrov Forest State Reserve and from the checkpoint we continue the road through the forest environment and along the river to the Eghbayrutyan Spring. From here the road to the Vahagni and Astghik waterfalls begins, it is full of beautiful and rich vegetation, with an interesting trail. A photo session, tea, coffee and bread break are organized at the waterfalls. Return by the same route until 17:00. 🚩 Start: Garni, 09:00 🥾 Duration: about 5 hours 🌿 Difficulty: medium 📷 Tips: photo stops, medieval architecture, nature observation 🥗 Option: light food or village lunch, by prior order․ October 11, Garni Canyon, 9:00
Sep 18, 2025
Azat Reservoir
💧 Azat Reservoir – An Artistic Mirror of Garni’s Beauty and Nature General Information The Azat Reservoir is located in the Ararat region, about 12 km southeast of the village of Garni. It was built in 1976 on the Azat River to provide irrigation water. Today, the reservoir serves not only agricultural needs, but has also become a tourist attraction. Nature and Environment The Azat Reservoir is surrounded by mountains and rocky slopes. It is especially impressive in spring and autumn. In spring, the fields around the reservoir bloom, and the area turns into a colorful landscape. In autumn, the slopes acquire yellow, red and brown shades. In summer, the area around the reservoir becomes a recreation area for nature lovers and picnickers. The reflection of the reservoir against the backdrop of the mountains creates a mirror-like view that attracts photographers. Tourist importance The Azat reservoir has become...
Sep 07, 2025
🌊 Astghik and Vahagn Waterfalls – The picturesque wonders of Khosrov Forest
🌊 Astghik and Vahagn Waterfalls – The Scenic Wonders of Khosrov Forest General Information In the Khosrov Forest, in the vicinity of Garni, two magnificent waterfalls have been preserved: Astghik and Vahagn Waterfalls. They are not only examples of natural beauty, but also have a symbolic meaning associated with ancient Armenian beliefs and mythology. 🌸 Astghik Waterfall Astghik was the goddess of love and beauty in Armenian mythology. The waterfall bearing her name is hidden deep in the Khosrov Forest, among high rocks and green areas. The constant flow of water creates a light mist that sparkles under the sun's rays, like thousands of stars. It is considered a favorite place for lovers and young people, where people come to take photos and enjoy the delicate beauty of nature. Active tourists often combine this visit with Geghardavank and Aghjots Monastery. ⚡ Vahagn Waterfall Vahagn was the god of war and fi...
Sep 07, 2025
🏛 Aghjots Monastery – a medieval monastic complex in the Khosrov Forest
🏛 Aghjots Monastery – a medieval monastery complex in the Khosrov Forest Location and historical overview Aghjots Monastery is located in the Khosrov State Forest of Ararat Province, about 7 km southeast of Geghardavank. According to tradition, it was founded by Gregory the Illuminator in the 4th century as a hermit's hermitage, on the site where the priest Stepanos was martyred. In the 13th century, the monastery was rebuilt with new churches and became an important spiritual center of the region. Architectural description The monastery complex included several churches and a cloister. St. Stepanos Church – built in 1212–1217, cruciform plan, central dome. Poghos-Petros Church – built in 1270, decorated with bas-reliefs of the apostles Paul and Peter at the entrance. Porch – added to the St. Stepanos Church, served as a gathering place. Numerous khachkars and a medieval cemetery are scattered around the area....