Ararat Region

Named after the iconic biblical mountain, the Ararat Region lies in the southwestern corner of Armenia, bordering Turkey and Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan exclave.

Сердце Араратской долины

Lоcated in the heart of the Ararat Valley—the enduring symbol of Armenian identity—the region offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. One of its most spectacular viewpoints is Khor Virap Monastery, where visitors can enjoy an unforgettable panorama of Mount Ararat. The monastery is among Armenia’s most cherished pilgrimage sites, attracting both locals and travelers from around the world.

The fertile valleys of the Araks, Azat, and Vedi rivers make Ararat the country’s most important agricultural region. Endless orchards of apricots and peaches line the highways, creating one of Armenia’s most recognizable landscapes. During the harvest season, roadside stalls brim with fresh sun-ripened fruit, dried fruits, homemade jams, and other local specialties.

The Ararat Valley is also considered one of the world’s earliest centers of grape domestication and winemaking, with one of the highest concentrations of indigenous grape varieties. The region’s cuisine reflects its agricultural abundance. Signature dishes include summer tolma made with stuffed vegetables and cabbage, grilled and fried vegetables, pork and lamb barbecue, khashlama, pilaf with raisins and dried fruits, emmer wheat pilaf, and Lenten tolma.

Nature, Heritage, and Traditional Crafts

Founded in the 4th century, Khosrov Forest State Reserve is one of the oldest protected areas in the world and Armenia’s largest nature reserve. Located near the ancient city of Dvin, it is home to remarkable biodiversity and offers outstanding opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. Its diverse landscapes range from semi-deserts and mountain steppes to woodlands and alpine meadows.

Traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive in the region’s villages. Carpet weaving, silversmithing, and jewelry making remain important local arts, while the potters and tonir makers of Shahumyan (historically known as Yuva) are renowned throughout Armenia. These centuries-old skills have been carefully preserved through generations of artisans.

Ararat is also home to two of Armenia’s historic capitals: Artashat, founded in the 2nd century BCE, and its successor, Dvin. The region is equally famous for the Vordan Karmir (Ararat cochineal), a native insect once used to produce the brilliant crimson dye that illuminated medieval Armenian manuscripts.

Highlights

Food & Agriculture

• Tolma

• Khashlama

• Seasonal edible banjar (wild greens)

• Apricots

• Peaches

• Grapes

Museums

• Paruyr Sevak House-Museum

Nature

• Ararat Valley

• Mount Ararat

• Araks River Valley

• Mount Yeranos

• Urts Mountain Range

• Khosrov Forest State Reserve

• Azat Cave

• Angel's Canyon

Historical & Religious Sites

• Khor Virap Monastery (7th–17th centuries)

• Kaqavaberd Fortress (10th–14th centuries)

• Aghjots Vank Monastery (13th century)

Why to visit Ararat region?

The Ararat Region is one of Armenia's most captivating destinations, where breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and living traditions come together. Visitors can admire the iconic view of Mount Ararat from Khor Virap Monastery, explore the fertile Ararat Valley—one of the world's oldest centers of winemaking—and discover historic sites, traditional villages, and the pristine beauty of Khosrov Forest State Reserve. Renowned for its orchards, vineyards, and authentic Armenian cuisine, the region offers an unforgettable journey through the country's cultural and natural heritage.