Kotayk, just east of Yerevan, is home to some of Armenia’s most visited sites. This region is packed with ancient monuments, natural curiosities and mountain resorts, all less than an hour from the capital.

Garni Temple

The pagan Temple of Garni is the only standing Greco-Roman style building in the entire post-Soviet space. Dedicated to the sun god Mihr, it crowns a fortified plateau that also holds the ruins of an ancient royal palace and Roman-style baths with well-preserved mosaic floors.

Geghard Monastery

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Geghard Monastery is partly carved directly into the cliff face. Founded in the 4th century, with its main church dated to 1215, this medieval site offers exceptional insight into Armenian monastic traditions.

The Symphony of Stones

In the Garni Gorge stands the Symphony of Stones, also known as the Basaltic Organ: a natural rock wall made up of regular hexagonal prisms, a spectacular geological curiosity.

Tsaghkadzor

Tsaghkadzor, whose name means “gorge of flowers”, is nestled among lush valleys and snow-capped peaks. Its landscapes burst into wildflowers in spring and summer, while winter transforms it into a popular ski and snowboard resort.

Practical information

Access: About 30 to 45 minutes by road from Yerevan.
Best time to visit: Year-round, skiing in winter at Tsaghkadzor, hiking the rest of the year.