Things To Do
in Yeghvard
Yeghvard is a picturesque town located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia, surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush greenery. The town features a historic church, St. Astvatsatsin Church, dating back to the 5th century, which is a popular tourist attraction. Yeghvard is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.
The town also offers various hiking and outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts to enjoy.
- "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 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Surb Astvatsatsin Church, a stunning example of Armenian architecture. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take photos of the intricate carvings.
Have lunch at a local café, trying some traditional Armenian dishes like khorovats. Afterward, stroll through Yeghvard's charming streets and visit local shops.
End your day with a relaxing walk in the town park, soaking in the serene environment. Grab dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Armenian cuisine.
Begin the day with a hike in the nearby Khosrov Forest State Reserve. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings filled with diverse flora.
Pack a picnic and have lunch in one of the picturesque spots in the forest. After lunch, continue exploring the scenic trails and watch for wildlife.
Return to Yeghvard and relax at your accommodation. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant, reflecting on the day's natural beauty.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, with ancient churches and monuments.
- Peaceful and quiet atmosphere, suitable for relaxation and retreat.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains and lush landscapes.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Community-oriented environment with friendly locals.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Fewer job opportunities, especially for specialized professions.
- Public transportation options may be lacking or infrequent.
- Isolation from larger urban centers, which may affect social activities.
- Harsh winters can be challenging for residents.
Best Activities in Yeghvard
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views while hiking in the nearby mountains of Yeghvard.
Take a short trip to Lake Sevan, where you can swim, picnic, or enjoy various water sports.
Experience the natural scenery of Yeghvard on horseback. Local stables offer guided tours.
Enjoy a leisurely day outdoors at one of the local parks with facilities for picnics and relaxation.
Ride through scenic trails that provide both challenges for experienced bikers and enjoyment for beginners.
Visit areas around Yeghvard that are home to various bird species, ideal for both novice and expert bird watchers.
Explore historical sites in and around Yeghvard, including churches and ancient monastic complexes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Yeghvard with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Yeghvard
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient church with stunning architecture and a picturesque backdrop, ideal for capturing both the structure and surrounding landscapes.
Explore the ruins that offer a glimpse into history, surrounded by scenic views that are perfect for photography.
A hill located just outside of Yeghvard that provides panoramic views of the area, great for capturing sunset photos.
The riverbank offers tranquil spots and beautiful scenery for nature photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
A short drive from Yeghvard, this monastery is set against a backdrop of mountains and is perfect for dramatic landscape shots.
A public park that features lush greenery, walking paths, and seasonal flowers, providing a vibrant setting for photographs.
Capture the local culture and vibrant scenes of everyday life by photographing the bustling markets in Yeghvard.
Food in Yeghvard
Yeghvard Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try Armenian dish, khorovats is a type of grilled meat, often made from pork or lamb, seasoned with local herbs and spices. It's best enjoyed at traditional roadside grills called tonirs, which can be found along the main roads of Yeghvard.
Must-Try!
Dolma consists of grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, minced meat, and herbs. It's a popular dish in Armenia and can be found in local eateries and home-cooked meals.
Lavash is a soft, thin unleavened flatbread that forms an integral part of Armenian cuisine. It is often used to wrap grilled meats, cheese, and fresh herbs, creating a delicious and portable meal. Look for it in bakeries and at street food vendors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Yeghvard better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of the town, Yeghvard Food Market offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, meats, and dried fruits. Visitors can also explore stalls selling traditional Armenian street food such as grilled meats, bread, and pastries.
During special events and festivals, Yeghvard hosts street food festivals where visitors can sample an array of local and regional delicacies, including grilled meats, kebabs, stuffed pastries, and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone for the first time in Yeghvard, a firm handshake along with direct eye contact is considered polite. It is also common for men to greet women with a nod or a smile rather than a handshake unless initiated by the woman.
Dressing modestly is important in Yeghvard, especially when visiting religious sites. Both men and women should avoid overly casual attire, and women are encouraged to wear skirts or dresses that cover the knees, and to cover their shoulders.
Armenians are known for their hospitality. If you are invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or flowers. It is respectful to accept food or drink offered to you, as declining may be seen as impolite.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Yeghvard with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Yeghvard
Ensure a smooth experience
In Yeghvard, as in many parts of Armenia, tipping is generally expected in the service industry. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill at restaurants, cafes, and for taxi services. Tips may also be given for hotel staff and guides, particularly if they provide exceptional service.
In Yeghvard, payment methods can vary. Cash is widely accepted, and the Armenian dram (AMD) is the official currency. Credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller businesses or markets. Mobile payment options are also gaining popularity, but may not be universally available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Yeghvard.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Yeghvard, as the weather starts to warm up and flowers begin to bloom. Expect mild temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local parks.
Summer (June to August) in Yeghvard can be warm, with temperatures often rising above 30°C (86°F). This is peak tourist season, perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals and cultural events. Expect longer days and plenty of sunshine, but also prepare for occasional heat waves.
Autumn (September to November) is another wonderful time to visit, with cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. The landscape transforms into a mix of warm colors, making it great for photography. This season also features harvest festivals and local food events.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold in Yeghvard, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, this season offers a unique charm, especially around the holidays. Expect a peaceful atmosphere, and if you enjoy winter sports, nearby mountains provide opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
Yeghvard at Night
Hiking in Yeghvard
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic gorge located near Yeghvard, offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the Hrazdan River and surrounding cliffs.
A protected area with diverse flora and fauna, featuring several marked trails for hikers of all levels, and rich in historical sites.
The highest peak in Armenia, offering challenging hikes with breathtaking panoramic views. The ancient ruins and diverse ecosystems make it a popular hiking destination.
A hike that takes you from the ancient Garni Temple down to the Azat River Gorge, showcasing beautiful rock formations and stunning landscapes.
While a bit further from Yeghvard, the area provides a variety of trails with views of the iconic Mount Ararat, making it a worthwhile hiking experience for enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Yeghvard through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Yeghvard by plane.
The main international airport serving Yerevan, Armenia, located approximately 50 km from Yeghvard.
The primary airport in Tbilisi, Georgia, situated around 250 km from Yeghvard.
An airport located in Ganja, Azerbaijan, roughly 320 km from Yeghvard.
An international airport in Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan, approximately 340 km from Yeghvard.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Yeghvard, representing a significant portion of the population.
A minority ethnic and religious group in Yeghvard, known for their unique cultural practices.
A small community in Yeghvard, mainly consisting of individuals from the former Soviet Union.
Includes various smaller demographic groups and immigrants from nearby regions.
The Soul of Yeghvard
Discover the essence of Yeghvard through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Yeghvard, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball is widely played among youth in Yeghvard, with several schools having teams and participating in local competitions.
Volleyball has a significant presence in the area, attracting both male and female participants in schools and recreational leagues.
Wrestling is a traditional sport in Armenia, and it is practiced in Yeghvard, often with local clubs participating in regional tournaments.
Chess is a popular intellectual sport in Yeghvard, with many locals participating in chess clubs and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yeghvard.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Armenian cuisine traditionally includes a lot of meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Yeghvard offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as stuffed vegetables, lentil soups, and bean salads. Additionally, look for dishes featuring locally grown fruits, nuts, and herbs for flavorful plant-based choices.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled meats, fresh salads, rice pilaf, and certain types of cheese, all of which are commonly found in Yeghvard. Additionally, traditional Armenian bread, such as lavash, is often gluten-free, but it's essential to inquire about preparation methods to ensure it meets dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Yeghvard with these cultural adventures.