Mount Ara and the Shadow of Ancient Legends
Ancient extinct volcano between the Kasakh and Razdan rivers, with views of Ararat and Aragats, the 7th-century Surb Zoravar church, and the mythological legend of King Ara.
Tour Snapshot
Duration
1 Days
Price
$0.00
Destination
Ararat Valley
Category
Hiking Tours
Overview
Mount Ara (2,577 m) is an ancient extinct volcano whose silhouette, when viewed from a distance, resembles a reclining human body — the origin of the Armenian legend of King Ara the Beautiful, who died in battle against the Assyrian Queen Semiramis. The vegetation transforms as you ascend: open plains at the base, oak groves midway, and lush northern slopes above.
The hike begins near the Church of Surb Zoravar (7th century) at the mountain's base. From the summit on clear days, you see snow-capped Ararat, the Aragats massif, and the Kasakh Gorge all at once.
Highlights
- Summit views: Mount Ararat, Aragats, Kasakh Gorge
- Church of Surb Zoravar (7th century) at the trailhead
- Legend of King Ara the Beautiful and Queen Semiramis
- Changing vegetation: steppe → oak groves → mountain forest
Included & Excluded
Included
- Guide (English/Russian)
- Private transportation
Not Included
- Lunch
- Personal expenses
Important Information
- Moderate fitness required — ~3 h round trip
- Good hiking shoes essential
- Best April–October