Ashtarak Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

Welcome to Ashtarak, a town where time slows down and stories rise from ancient stones. Just 20 kilometers northwest of Yerevan, this charming Armenian town is a haven of historical churches, cozy wine cellars, romantic legends, and local hospitality.

Ashtarak is one of those rare places that blends age-old traditions with everyday village life. Whether you're gazing across the Kasagh River Gorge, sipping wine in a stone-walled cellar, or wandering past apricot orchards with Mount Aragats on the horizon, Ashtarak makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret waiting to be shared.

📅 Best Time to Visit Ashtarak

With its mild highland climate and proximity to both Yerevan and Mount Aragats, Ashtarak is lovely year-round—but some seasons bring out its true magic.

Ideal Travel Seasons:

• Spring (April–June): Blooming apricot trees, lush green hills, and crisp air—perfect for walking tours and outdoor dining.

• Autumn (September–October): Wine harvest season, golden vineyards, and cool evenings—Ashtarak at its romantic best.

• Summer (July–August): Hot but dry, with clear views of Aragats and a festive local vibe.

• Winter (December–February): Quiet and snowy; great for those who enjoy a peaceful, introspective visit.

Pro tip: Time your visit with a local wine festival or a village market day for the full cultural immersion.

🍷 What to Eat Nearby

Ashtarak is known for traditional Armenian food with a special love for wine, homemade preserves, and simple yet flavorful dishes.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Tolma: Grape leaves stuffed with minced meat and herbs.

• Khorovats: Armenian barbecue, often cooked roadside or in backyards.

• Gata: A sweet bread filled with butter and sugar—perfect with Armenian coffee.

• Walnut Preserves: A unique local specialty, often homemade and beautifully aromatic.

Top Food & Wine Spots:

• Ashtaraki Dzor Restaurant & Winery: A favorite for both locals and visitors. Scenic vineyard views and authentic cuisine.

• Qari Kamurj Tavern: Cozy, rustic, and famous for homemade brandy and grilled meats.

• Local Fruit Markets: Look out for figs, pomegranates, and fresh herbs in season.

Insider Tip: Try Armenian “oseh”—a spinach-yogurt soup popular in the region and great on warm afternoons.

🚗 How to Get to Ashtarak

One of the best things about Ashtarak? It’s super accessible from Yerevan, making it ideal for a day trip—or a restful base for exploring Aragatsotn province.

Travel Options:

• By Car: A 30–40 minute drive from Yerevan on the M1 highway. Roads are smooth and scenic.

• By Minibus (Marshrutka): Regular rides leave from Yerevan’s Kilikia Bus Station.

• By Taxi: Affordable, especially if shared. Great for flexibility and stopovers en route.

Getting Around:

• On Foot: The town is compact, and walking is the best way to explore its alleys, churches, and views.

• Taxis or Rideshare: Limited but available—arrange through your hotel or guesthouse.

🌟 Things to Do in Ashtarak

Historic Sights:

• Karmravor Church: A 7th-century gem with a red tile roof and timeless presence—tiny but unforgettable.

• Tsiranavor and Spitakavor Churches: Perched above the Kasagh Gorge, these ruins are steeped in legend and perfect for sunset views.

• Ashtarak Bridge (17th century): A scenic stone bridge spanning the river, a must for photos.

Local Culture:

• Wine Tastings: Visit small local wineries for family-made wine and fruit distillations.

• Artisan Workshops: Look for handmade lace, wood carvings, and traditional instruments.

• Picnic in the Gorge: Pack local bread, cheese, and apricots and relax by the river.

Nearby:

• Amberd Fortress & Mount Aragats: Just a short drive away, this dramatic fortress offers highland beauty and history in equal measure.

• Saghmosavank Monastery: Overlooking a deep canyon, this site is one of Armenia’s most breathtaking spiritual spots.

Traveler’s Tip: Ask locals to share the legend of the three sisters that inspired the town’s ancient churches—it’s poetic and quintessentially Armenian.

🧭 Travel Tips & Safety

Essentials:

• Currency: Armenian Dram (AMD). Carry small notes for markets and tips.

• Language: Armenian is spoken; Russian is useful. English is limited, but people are helpful.

• Dress: Casual is fine, but cover shoulders and knees if visiting religious sites.

Etiquette:

• Hospitality: If offered food or wine, accept—it’s considered respectful and a sign of friendship.

• Photos: Always ask before photographing locals or private homes.

Safety:

• Extremely Safe: Ashtarak is quiet and welcoming.

• Nature Caution: If hiking around the gorge or Aragats foothills, bring water and good shoes.

✨ Why Visit Ashtarak?

Ashtarak isn’t trying to be flashy—it just is: authentic, gentle, and steeped in history. It’s a place where legends live in church walls, wine flows like conversation, and time slows just enough for you to notice the apricot blossoms, the mountain breeze, and the kindness of strangers.

If you’re looking for an Armenian destination with heart, heritage, and homemade wine, Ashtarak will quietly win you over.