Before booking a tour to any country tourists often search for the must-visit destinations to understand what they do not want to miss. However, some are focused on more than just its well-known landmarks. For the adventurous traveler, there are countless hidden gems in Armenia waiting to be uncovered.
These secret spots provide a unique glimpse into Armenia’s natural beauty and culture. Some of them are not so popular, the others are literally hidden in the mountains. The list does not include only churches or monasteries. There are also museums and unusual caves that tourists can explore. Join us as we explore seven captivating locations that highlight Armenia’s charm.
Khndzoresk and Hin Khot
Khndzoresk and Hin Khot are two epic spots in Armenia’s south that you have to visit. The first is an old cave village consisting of natural and manmade caves. It’s got a great swinging bridge that’s perfect for Instagram shots. Imagine walking above a gorge with all these ancient caves around you. By the way, the village was partially inhabited until the 1950s.
Just a 40-minute drive away is a ghost village hidden in the mountains. Abandoned stone houses, wild nature taking over, and total peace and quiet. You can wander around and feel like you’re in another world. It’s perfect if you want to escape the usual tourist traps.
Even some locals haven’t been to Hin Khot. So, if you’re up for an adventure and want to feel the vibe of real, untouched Armenia, hit up Khndzoresk and Hin Khot.
Noratus Cemetry
This place is a must-see if you’re a history lover. When heading to Sevan turn from the main highway and head to Noratus Cemetery. Located near Lake Sevan, this place is packed with khachkars or Armenian cross-stones. It’s got the biggest cluster of them in Armenia.
Walking through the cemetery is like stepping back in time. Some khachkars date back to the 10th century, and they’re covered in detailed carvings. You’ll see scenes of weddings and farm life etched into the stones.
Khachkars are placed near every church in Armenia. However, you can hardly feel the beauty and power of khachkars anywhere better than in Noratus Cemetery. The legend says villagers tricked Tamerlane’s army by making the khachkars look like soldiers.
The cemetery is open 24 hours, and you have plenty of time to walk there.
Khosrov Forest State Reserve
If someone asked to name the most popular site in Armenia, it would be the Garni Temple and the nearby Symphony of Stones. However, not everyone knows that nearby this site is the Khosrov State Reserve founded in the 4th century.
Its founder is King Khosrov who picked this forest as a royal hunting ground. Now it spans 27,000 hectares in the Ararat province. It has a diverse ecosystem with many protected species. This is a haven for wildlife and is home to 1,500 species, including bezoar goats, brown bears, and even leopards.
One of the ways to explore it is to join one of the hiking tours. In addition to waterfalls and rivers, the reserve is rich in historical monuments like Havuts Tar Monastery and Aghjots Monastery. This place is home to hundreds of monuments, including cross-stones and castles.
Lastiver Cave
One of the secrets of Tavush province is hidden in its green forests. The mountains here are all green making this region feel like Armenia’s own Switzerland. The caves are in a stunning gorge near Yenokavan, surrounded by green trees.
You’ll see waterfalls, tall trees, and cliffs. The main cave is on a steep slope. To reach it, people built a log ladder, giving the place its name, Lastiver, meaning “up the raft.” They say people hid here during the Mongol invasion.
Lastiver is perfect for hiking, ecotourism, and adventure. It remains pristine with crystal-clear river water and fresh air.
Kobayr Monastery
This Monastery near Tumanyan village in Lori province dates back to the 12th century. This ancient site is rich in history and stunning architecture. Perched on a cliff, it offers breathtaking views of the forests and the Debed River canyon below.
The monastery’s stone carvings and frescoes, some depicting Christ and the apostles. It was built by the Kyurikid princes and later taken over by the Zakarians. The mural paintings on the walls depict the members of the Zakarian family. Besides, the monastery used to be an important educational and cultural center in medieval Armenia.
Parajanov Museum
Hidden gems in Armenia aren’t just monasteries or churches. Visiting the Parajanov Museum in Yerevan is just out of this world. Dedicated to the legendary filmmaker Sergey Parajanov, this museum isn’t just for film buffs.
Visitors can dive into the life and art of one of the 20th century’s greatest masters. The museum was born from an idea by Parajanov’s friend Zaven Sargsyan. It now boasts 1,400 exhibits, including unique graphics, dolls, and collages. Over 30 years, it has showcased exhibitions worldwide, from Cannes to Los Angeles.
Levon’s Divine Underground
Another unique museum is the so-called Levon’s Underground Cave. Just outside Yerevan, in the village of Arinj which is 5 minutes away from the capital city, you’ll find Levon’s Divine Underground. When Levon Arakelyan’s wife asked for a simple potato cellar, he ended up digging for 23 years! Thus, he created a vast network of caves with rooms, stairs, and sanctuaries.
This underground gem goes 21 meters deep and covers 300 square meters. Levon used only hand tools, often working every day. Today, his wife runs a small museum in his honor.
