Goshavank Monastery Information | Photos | Location

Nestled among the emerald forests of Tavush Province, Goshavank Monastery feels like a place untouched by time. Tucked into the quiet village of Gosh, this 12th–13th century monastery is both a spiritual haven and a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture. Built on the ruins of an earlier monastery destroyed by an earthquake, Goshavank rose during Armenia’s golden cultural era and is closely tied to the legacy of Mkhitar Gosh—a revered scholar, jurist, and theologian.

If you're searching for a peaceful, less-crowded alternative to Armenia’s more famous religious sites, Goshavank offers solitude, history, and breathtaking natural beauty, all wrapped into one unforgettable visit.

📅 Best Time to Visit Goshavank

Goshavank sits in the rolling green highlands of Dilijan National Park. Its climate is pleasant most of the year:

• Spring (April–June): Lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, and perfect hiking weather.

• Summer (July–August): Warm and vibrant—great for combining your visit with nearby lakes or forest walks.

• Autumn (September–October): Glorious foliage, crisp air, and golden light for photography.

• Winter (November–March): Quiet and snowy—stunning but access may be limited due to icy roads.

🕒 Goshavank Monastery Timings:
Open daily, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (free entry, no tickets required)

🏛️ What to See at Goshavank

The monastery complex is compact but incredibly rich in detail and history.

🧱 Architectural Highlights:

• Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God Church): The main church, completed in 1191, with intricate dome carvings and arched entryways.

• Surb Grigor Church: Features elegant lines and inscriptions from the early 13th century.

• Gavit (Narthex): A dark, mysterious hall with a star-shaped ceiling—great for acoustic chanting.

• Mkhitar Gosh’s Tomb: A modest stone marks the final resting place of the monastery’s founder and namesake.

• Khachkars (Cross-Stones): Some of Armenia’s most famous khachkars are located here, including the intricately carved “Gosh Khachkar,” renowned for its lace-like design.

📸 Photography Tip: Visit in the morning for soft light and few crowds. The stone looks especially striking in contrast with forest greenery.

🍽️ What to Eat Nearby

While Gosh is a quiet village, there are several nearby places to enjoy traditional Tavush hospitality and food.

Local Specialties:

• Mountain Trout: Often grilled and served with fresh herbs and lemon.

• Zhingyalov Hats: A flatbread stuffed with wild greens and herbs—popular in this region.

• Wild Mushroom Dishes: Forest-foraged mushrooms sautéed or used in omelets and soups.

• Berry Preserves & Honey: Often homemade, served with fresh lavash or yogurt.

Where to Eat:

• Gosh Village Guesthouses: Many offer homemade meals to guests and visitors upon request.

• Cafés in Dilijan (30 mins away): For a wider variety of dishes, head back to town for garden restaurants and taverns.

🫖 Pro Tip: Sip mountain tea with thyme and mint—both calming and aromatic.

🚗 How to Get to Goshavank

Goshavank is about 120 km (2.5 hours) from Yerevan and just 30 minutes northeast of Dilijan.

Travel Options:

• By Car: The best and most flexible way. Take the M4 highway toward Dilijan, then follow signs to Gosh.

• By Taxi: Reasonably priced from Dilijan; make sure to arrange a return trip in advance.

• By Marshrutka: Shared vans from Yerevan to Dilijan, then hire a local taxi to reach Goshavank.

🛤️ Roads to Gosh are scenic but winding—drive slowly and enjoy the forest views.

🧳 Travel Tips & Safety

• Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes—grounds are uneven, and some areas can be muddy after rain.

• Quiet Respect: Goshavank is still an active religious site; speak softly and dress modestly.

• Weather: Even in summer, temperatures can be cool in the shade—bring a light jacket.

• Cash: No ATMs nearby—carry small bills if you plan to shop or eat locally.

• Local Insight: Ask villagers about the trail to Gosh Lake, a hidden alpine lake only a short hike away.

🎒 Ideal for a day trip or as part of a Dilijan National Park itinerary.

✨ Why Visit Goshavank?

Goshavank is not just another monastery—it’s a peaceful place that merges Armenia’s intellectual legacy, spiritual traditions, and natural splendor. With fewer crowds, a welcoming village setting, and a profound connection to Armenian heritage, Goshavank feels like a secret worth discovering—one you'll carry with you long after your journey ends.