Things to Do in Sevan, Հայաստան

Sevan is a picturesque lakeside town in Armenia, renowned for being home to Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world. Situated at an elevation of 1,900 meters above sea level, this stunning destination offers breathtaking mountain scenery, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. The town serves as the perfect base for exploring the lake's pristine shores and the historic Sevanavank Monastery perched on a peninsula. Beyond its natural beauty, Sevan is deeply intertwined with Armenian history and spirituality. The area has been inhabited since ancient times and features numerous archaeological sites, medieval monasteries, and traditional fishing villages. Visitors can enjoy fresh lake trout, explore ancient churches, take boat trips across the expansive waters, and experience the unique high-altitude lake ecosystem that makes this region truly special.

Top Things to Do in Sevan

Visit Sevanavank Monastery

This 9th-century monastery complex sits majestically on a peninsula overlooking Lake Sevan, offering spectacular panoramic views. The two surviving churches, Surp Arakelots and Surp Astvatsatsin, showcase classic Armenian ecclesiastical architecture with their distinctive cross-dome designs. The monastery provides insight into Armenia's Christian heritage while serving as one of the most photographed landmarks in the country.

Booking Tip: Entry is free, but consider hiring a local guide for 3,000-5,000 AMD to learn about the monastery's history. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for the best lighting and fewer crowds. The climb up the peninsula involves steep steps, so wear comfortable shoes.

Lake Sevan Boat Trip

Explore the vast expanse of Lake Sevan by boat, taking in the surrounding Geghama and Vardenis mountain ranges from the water. These trips often include stops at secluded beaches, fishing demonstrations, and opportunities to spot local bird species. The boat rides provide a unique perspective of the monastery and shoreline that cannot be appreciated from land.

Booking Tip: Boat trips cost 15,000-25,000 AMD per person for 2-3 hours. Book through local operators near the main beach area, and confirm the route includes monastery views. Best conditions are May through September with calm morning waters. Bring sun protection as there's little shade on the water.

Noratus Cemetery Khachkars

Visit the largest collection of khachkars (Armenian cross-stones) in the world at Noratus Cemetery, featuring over 900 intricately carved memorial stones dating from the 10th to 17th centuries. Each khachkar tells a unique story through its detailed religious and secular motifs, representing one of Armenia's most important cultural art forms. The site offers profound insight into medieval Armenian craftsmanship and burial traditions.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 1,000 AMD with guided tours available for 5,000 AMD. Visit during daylight hours for the best viewing of carved details. Located 5km from Sevan town, accessible by taxi (2,000-3,000 AMD) or organized tour. Allow 1-2 hours to properly explore the extensive collection.

Sevan National Park Hiking

Explore the diverse landscapes of Sevan National Park through well-marked hiking trails that wind through alpine meadows, rocky outcrops, and along pristine shorelines. The park protects unique high-altitude ecosystems and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, including various bird species and endemic plants. Trails range from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents with rewarding summit views.

Booking Tip: Park entry is free, but guided hiking tours cost 8,000-15,000 AMD per person. Best hiking season is May through October with wildflowers peaking in June-July. Rent hiking equipment in Sevan town if needed, and always inform someone of your hiking plans. Weather can change rapidly at this altitude.

Traditional Fishing Experience

Learn traditional Armenian fishing techniques on Lake Sevan while trying to catch the famous Sevan trout (ishkhan). Local fishermen share generations-old methods and stories about the lake's fishing heritage while providing insights into the delicate ecosystem. The experience often includes preparing and cooking your catch using traditional recipes and local herbs.

Booking Tip: Fishing experiences cost 12,000-20,000 AMD including equipment and guide. Best fishing times are early morning or evening from May through September. Book through guesthouses or local operators who can provide permits if required. Some tours include traditional fish preparation and lakeside cooking.

Getting There

Sevan is easily accessible from Yerevan, located approximately 65 kilometers northeast of Armenia's capital. The most convenient option is driving or taking a taxi, which takes about 1-1.5 hours via the M4 highway through scenic mountain landscapes. Regular marshrutkas (shared minibuses) depart from Yerevan's Northern Bus Station every 30-60 minutes for 800-1,200 AMD, though they can be crowded during peak season. Private transfers cost 15,000-25,000 AMD and offer more comfort and flexibility for exploring the region.

Getting Around

Sevan town is compact and walkable, with most attractions within walking distance of the town center. For visiting nearby sites like Noratus Cemetery or exploring different parts of the lake shore, taxis are readily available for 1,500-3,000 AMD for short trips. Bicycle rentals are popular during summer months for lakeside exploration, costing around 3,000-5,000 AMD per day. Many visitors rent cars in Yerevan for maximum flexibility, as public transportation to remote areas around the lake is limited.

Where to Stay

Sevan Town Center

Lakefront Hotels

Sevanavank Peninsula Area

Tsaghkunk Village

Noratus Village

Lchashen Shoreline

Food & Dining

Sevan's dining scene centers around fresh lake fish, particularly the prized Sevan trout (ishkhan) prepared in various traditional styles. Lakeside restaurants offer scenic dining with specialties like grilled trout, fish kebabs, and traditional Armenian dishes using local ingredients. Popular establishments include Harsnaqar Restaurant for upscale lakefront dining and local taverns serving authentic home-style cooking. Don't miss trying khorovats (Armenian barbecue) while enjoying lake views, and sample local honey and dried fruits sold by roadside vendors. Most restaurants are seasonal, operating primarily from May through October.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Sevan is from May through September when weather is warm, roads are accessible, and all tourist facilities are operational. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather for swimming and water activities, though this is also the busiest period. Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) provide pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful natural scenery with wildflowers or autumn colors. Winter visits are possible but many restaurants and accommodations close, and weather can be harsh at this high altitude with temperatures dropping well below freezing.

Insider Tips

Visit Sevanavank Monastery at sunset for magical golden hour photography with fewer tour groups

Try the local Sevan trout at family-run restaurants rather than tourist establishments for authentic preparation and better prices

Bring warm clothing even in summer as temperatures can drop significantly in the evening due to the high altitude location

Things to Do in Sevan