Kotayk Province
Why Visit Kotayk
Kotayk Province is located in the central part of the Republic of Armenia. According to the commonly accepted version, the name “Kotayk” is associated with Khosrov Kotak, a representative of the Arsacid royal dynasty of Greater Armenia. However, there are other theories suggesting that the name may have an older ethnic origin and be connected to a tribe bearing the same name.
Some studies identify Kotayk with the land of Etuni mentioned in Urartian cuneiform inscriptions, while Ghévond Alishan considered it possible that the district of Kotakene, mentioned by the Greek geographer Claudius Ptolemy, refers to this very region.
What to See
Tsaghkadzor, located in Kotayk Province, is one of Armenia’s most famous mountain resorts. Over time, it has borne different names and developed into both a historical and an important tourist center.
In ancient times, it was known as Tsaghkots Dzor and Tsaghkunyats Dzor. Due to the monastic complex established here during the Middle Ages, the area was also called Kecharis or Kecharoyk. Later, in the 15th century, during the period of Ottoman influence, it was renamed Darachichak, the Turkish translation of “Tsaghkunyats Dzor.” In 1947, the settlement regained its historic name, Tsaghkadzor.
What to Do
Historical and Cultural Heritage
Kotayk Province is one of Armenia’s richest historical and cultural regions. More than 3,200 monuments are recorded here, ranging from ancient settlements to medieval monastic complexes.
The province is particularly famous for its two internationally renowned monuments:
- Garni Temple
- Geghard Monastery
Garni Temple
The pagan Temple of Garni is one of the most famous structures from Armenia’s Hellenistic period. It was built in the peripteral style and is believed to have been dedicated to the sun god Areg-Mihr. The temple stands on a high podium, and a stone staircase of nine steps leads to its main entrance. Its architecture is distinguished by carefully crafted carvings and harmonious proportions, where diverse ornamental motifs are united into a single coherent composition.
Geghard Monastery
The Geghard Monastery Complex is one of the most significant spiritual centers of Kotayk. It is renowned for its rock-cut churches and medieval architecture, which blends harmoniously with the surrounding natural landscape.
What to Taste
- Edible wild plants
- Mineral water
- Organic honey
Must See
Khosrov Forest State Reserve
Garni Temple
Paragliding
Hankavan
Travel Tips and suggestions to Kotayk
- Climb mountains
- Visit Bjni Fortress
- Ride the ropeway in Tsaghkadzor
- Visit Khosrov Forest State Reserve
- Visit the Honey Museum
- Go paragliding
- Drink mineral water
- Visit Arzni
- Visit Lernanist
- See the Symphony of Stones
Best Time to Visit
To reach Abovyan or nearby villages from Yerevan, you can use suburban minibuses, which usually cost around 200–400 AMD. For a more comfortable option, taxi services are available. A taxi ride from Yerevan to Abovyan typically costs approximately 1,500–2,500 AMD, depending on the exact destination and service provider. If your destination is Tsaghkadzor, a taxi ride will generally cost around 5,000–8,000 AMD.
How to Get There from Yerevan
The climate of Kotayk Province is diverse due to significant variations in elevation, ranging from about 800 meters to over 3,500 meters above sea level. The province includes climate zones ranging from dry continental to cold mountainous conditions. Summers are warm in the lowlands and cool in the highlands, while winters are cold and snowy.
Today, Tsaghkadzor and the village of Lernanist are among Armenia’s most popular mountain resorts. They are especially known for their winter sports opportunities.
Important
In Armenia, it is still often necessary to carry cash. Many places, especially in the regions, operate on a cash-only basis. Although there are restaurants and hotels that accept card or online payments, they are not very common. Museums also generally require cash, and remember that almost all museums are closed on Mondays.
