Ughtasar Petroglyphs Information | Photos | Location

Imagine a vast, wind-swept mountain plateau where thousands of ancient carvings lie scattered across volcanic stone, untouched by time. Welcome to Ughtasar Petroglyphs, one of Armenia’s most awe-inspiring and remote archaeological sites. Tucked high in the Syunik Mountains at over 3,000 meters above sea level, Ughtasar—meaning “Camel Mountain” for its distinctive silhouette—is a prehistoric treasure trove.

Here, you’ll find more than 2,000 rock carvings etched into dark, glacial boulders—depicting everything from wild animals and celestial symbols to hunting scenes and ancient rituals. This natural open-air museum feels both otherworldly and deeply human. Whether you’re a history buff, a hiker, or just craving something raw and real, Ughtasar is one of the most unforgettable places to visit in Armenia.

📅 Best Time to Visit Ughtasar

Ughtasar is only accessible during a short window each year due to its high elevation:

• Best Time: July to early September

• Spring (May–June): Snow may still block access roads.

• Autumn (late Sept onwards): Early snowfall can make roads impassable.

• Winter: Not accessible due to heavy snow and extreme cold.

☀️ Clear skies, wildflower-dotted meadows, and crisp air make July and August ideal for both exploration and photography.

🧭 Things to See & Do

🪨 Explore the Petroglyphs

Walk freely among hundreds of engraved stones. Look closely—you’ll see images of ibex, bulls, hunters with bows, dancers, sun wheels, and even early star charts.

🌌 Discover Ancient Astronomy

Some carvings may have celestial significance. Circular and cross-like patterns hint at early efforts to track the sky and mark seasonal changes.

🏞️ Visit the Crater Lake

Near the carvings lies a peaceful glacial lake—an excellent place to rest, picnic, or simply take in the silence and grandeur of the surroundings.

📸 Capture Epic Photos

The contrast of ancient rock art, wild landscapes, and dramatic skies creates a dream setting for photographers and nature lovers alike.

🚗 How to Get There

Ughtasar is remote—getting there is part of the adventure.

• By 4×4 Jeep: The only way up. The rugged path from the town of Sisian to the site takes about 1.5–2 hours and climbs steeply through rocky terrain.

• From Sisian: Most visitors base themselves here. You can arrange a guided tour with local drivers familiar with the trail.

• Final Approach: In some cases, the last stretch must be done on foot depending on road conditions.

🏞 Allow a full day for the round trip, including time to explore at the top.

🍴 What to Eat Nearby

There are no shops or vendors at Ughtasar. Bring food and water with you.

Nearby Options:

• In Sisian: Enjoy hearty Armenian fare like khorovats (grilled meats), tolma, lentil soups, and freshly baked lavash at family-run eateries.

• Picnic Tip: Pack fruits, nuts, bread, and bottled water to enjoy lunch by the lake or among the stones.

🧳 Travel Tips & Safety

• Dress in Layers: Even in summer, the high-altitude air can be chilly, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

• Footwear: Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes—terrain is rocky and uneven.

• Bring Essentials: No water, no bathrooms, no services. Bring everything you need and take it all back out.

• Altitude Awareness: The site is above 3,000m—walk slowly, hydrate, and listen to your body.

• Respect the Site: Do not walk on or touch the carvings. They’ve survived millennia—treat them with care.

✨ Why Visit Ughtasar?

Visiting Ughtasar is not just a trip—it’s a journey into humanity’s earliest whispers. The petroglyphs are a raw, emotional connection to people who lived, hunted, danced, and watched the stars thousands of years ago. Add to that the drama of the mountain setting, the remoteness, and the sheer sense of discovery, and you’ll understand why Ughtasar is one of Armenia’s most extraordinary destinations.

If you want to go beyond the usual routes, feel the pulse of the past beneath your feet, and breathe in the silence of ancient skies, Ughtasar belongs on your Armenian travel itinerary.