Things To Do
in Ejmiatsin
Ejmiatsin is a historic city located in the Armavir Province of Armenia. It is known as the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and is home to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the main cathedral of the Armenian Church. The city is rich in religious and architectural heritage, with many ancient churches and monasteries dating back centuries.
Ejmiatsin is also a popular pilgrimage destination for Armenians and tourists alike.
- "Barev" - Hello
- "Shnorhakalutyun" - Thank you
- "Tsnund" - Goodbye
- "Voch inch" - You're welcome
- "Bari gisher" - Good night
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mother Cathedral, the oldest state-built church in the world. Take time to appreciate its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.
Head to the History Museum of Ejmiatsin to learn about the rich heritage of this ancient city. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café serving Armenian cuisine.
Stroll through the city streets and soak in the beautiful sunset views. Visit a local market for souvenirs and traditional crafts.
Visit the Etchmiadzin Cathedral Complex and explore the surrounding chapels. Don't miss the chance to admire the exquisite frescoes and religious art.
Tour the Vagarshapat area, where you can see the ruins of ancient churches. Stop for coffee and pastries at a nearby bakery.
Catch a cultural performance at a local venue to experience Armenian music and dance. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers traditional dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical heritage, including the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with nearby mountains and scenic landscapes.
- Strong sense of community and hospitality among locals.
- Vibrant religious and spiritual life, reflecting Armenia's deep Christian roots.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other countries.
- Limited infrastructure and public services, which may affect quality of life.
- Economy is not as robust as in larger cities, leading to fewer job opportunities.
- Inadequate healthcare facilities and professionals catering to the population.
- Cold winters and lack of modern heating systems in some areas.
- Potential political instability or tensions due to the region's geopolitical dynamics.
Best Activities in Ejmiatsin
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
The spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To learn about the history and culture of the region.
Enjoy the peaceful outdoors and beautiful scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ejmiatsin with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ejmiatsin
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic Echmiadzin Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts stunning architecture and provides great views for photography.
The ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral offer a unique backdrop for photography, especially during sunset.
The Vagharshapat mountains surrounding Ejmiatsin provide panoramic views of the city and its beautiful landscapes.
Food in Ejmiatsin
Ejmiatsin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Armenian dish made with cracked wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a smooth consistency. It's often enjoyed during festive occasions and can be found at local eateries and restaurants in Ejmiatsin.
Must-Try!
Known as Armenian barbecue, khorovats features skewered and grilled meat, often marinated in flavorful spices. Look for this popular dish at local outdoor markets and street food stalls.
A beloved dish in Armenian cuisine, dolma consists of grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, meat, and aromatic herbs. It's a staple on many menus in Ejmiatsin and can be found in traditional restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ejmiatsin better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the bustling Ejmiatsin Food Market to experience the vibrant local food scene. Here, you can sample an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, dried fruits, and freshly baked bread. Don't miss the opportunity to try authentic street food specialties such as freshly grilled khorovats and freshly baked lavash, a traditional Armenian flatbread.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ejmiatsin, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and allowing them to speak first in conversations.
Armenians in Ejmiatsin are known for their hospitality, so it is respectful to accept food and drinks when offered, and to express gratitude for the host's generosity.
When visiting religious sites such as the Ejmiatsin Cathedral, it is respectful to dress modestly and cover the shoulders and legs out of reverence for the religious significance of the place.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ejmiatsin with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ejmiatsin
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ejmiatsin, Armenia, it is customary to leave a small tip of around 10% at restaurants and cafes if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated but not mandatory.
In Ejmiatsin, Armenia, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are increasingly being accepted in larger businesses and hotels. It's always best to carry some local currency for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ejmiatsin.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Ejmiatsin is in spring (April to June) when the weather is mild, and the city is in full bloom with a plethora of colorful flowers. This season also marks the celebration of Easter, and visitors can experience traditional Armenian Easter customs and festivities.
Summer (July to August) is another popular time to visit Ejmiatsin when the weather is warm and perfect for exploring outdoor attractions. Visitors can expect sunny days and vibrant local markets offering a variety of fresh fruits and local produce.
Autumn (September to November) is characterized by cooler temperatures and the beautiful fall foliage. This season is ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the stunning landscapes adorned with golden and red hues.
While winter (December to February) in Ejmiatsin is cold and the city experiences snowfall, it offers a unique charm with fewer tourists. Visitors can partake in winter activities such as ice skating and enjoy the festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
Ejmiatsin at Night
Hiking in Ejmiatsin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain located near Ejmiatsin, Mount Ararat is iconic for its height and snowy peak. It offers various hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is often associated with Armenian heritage.
Located about 30 km from Ejmiatsin, Garni Gorge features beautiful natural rock formations and the famous Symphony of Stones. Hikers can explore various trails along the gorge and enjoy the scenery.
This protected area is about 40 km from Ejmiatsin and offers diverse flora and fauna. The hiking trails here vary in difficulty and provide opportunities to see ancient ruins and wildlife.
Approximately 60 km from Ejmiatsin, Lake Sevan is one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world. Hiking around the lake offers stunning views and access to various island monasteries.
Located about 50 km from Ejmiatsin, Areni Gorge is known for its beautiful landscapes and the historic Areni Cave. Hikers can enjoy various trails along the gorge with views of vineyards and the river.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ejmiatsin through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ejmiatsin by plane.
The primary international airport serving Yerevan, Armenia, located about 9 km from Ejmiatsin.
The main international airport serving Tbilisi, Georgia, located approximately 270 km from Ejmiatsin.
An international airport in Kutaisi, Georgia, located about 330 km from Ejmiatsin.
An airport located in Gyumri, Armenia, approximately 127 km from Ejmiatsin, primarily handling domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Ejmiatsin, constituting a significant portion of the population.
A smaller minority group with a distinct cultural and religious identity.
Another minority group in Ejmiatsin, known for their unique heritage and language.
A minority group that includes ethnic Russians and people of Russian descent.
A small community with historical roots in the region.
The Soul of Ejmiatsin
Discover the essence of Ejmiatsin through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Ejmiatsin, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity among the youth in Ejmiatsin, with various clubs and recreational leagues.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and community centers, often attracting both male and female participants.
Athletics, including running and track events, is encouraged in schools and during local sports events.
Traditional wrestling is part of the cultural heritage in Ejmiatsin, with events often held during local festivals.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Armenian cuisine prominently features meat dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Ejmiatsin offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Look for dishes like stuffed eggplant (imam bayildi), lentil soup, and a variety of fresh salads made with local produce.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes such as grilled meats, rice-based pilafs, and yogurt-based sauces. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to the staff at restaurants, who are often accommodating to special dietary requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ejmiatsin with these cultural adventures.
