Things to Do in Tavush Province, Հայաստան

Tavush Province, located in northeastern Armenia, is a captivating region where ancient history meets pristine wilderness. This mountainous province is home to some of Armenia's most significant medieval monasteries, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Haghpat and Sanahin, which showcase the golden age of Armenian ecclesiastical architecture. The region's landscape is dominated by dense forests, rolling hills, and the dramatic Debed River canyon, making it a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Beyond its spiritual heritage, Tavush offers authentic Armenian village life, traditional crafts, and some of the country's best hiking opportunities. The province serves as a gateway to Georgia, with the historic Silk Road routes passing through its territories. Visitors can explore ancient fortresses, sample local wines, and experience the warm hospitality of mountain communities while enjoying cooler temperatures and fresher air compared to Armenia's capital region.

Top Things to Do in Tavush Province

Explore Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries

Visit these magnificent 10th-century monastic complexes that represent the pinnacle of Armenian medieval architecture. Both UNESCO World Heritage sites feature intricate stone carvings, ancient libraries, and stunning examples of Armenian khachkars (cross-stones). The monasteries offer breathtaking views over the Debed canyon and provide insight into Armenia's rich Christian heritage.

Booking Tip: Entry is free but consider hiring a local guide for 8,000-12,000 AMD to fully appreciate the historical significance. Best visited in morning light for photography, and combine both sites in a single day trip.

Hike in Dilijan National Park

Discover Armenia's 'Little Switzerland' through well-marked trails that wind through dense deciduous forests, past crystal-clear lakes, and up to panoramic viewpoints. The park is home to diverse wildlife including brown bears, lynx, and over 120 bird species. Popular trails include the route to Parz Lake and the challenging hike to Aghavnavank Monastery.

Booking Tip: Park entry costs 1,000 AMD per person. Hire local guides through Dilijan visitor center for 15,000-20,000 AMD per day. Best hiking season is May-October, with autumn offering spectacular foliage.

Visit Goshavank Monastery Complex

Explore this 12th-century architectural masterpiece founded by scholar Mkhitar Gosh, featuring some of Armenia's finest khachkars including the famous 'Aseghnagorts' cross-stone. The monastery served as a major educational center and houses remarkable examples of medieval Armenian art and calligraphy. The peaceful setting among forested hills adds to its spiritual atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Free entry with optional donations. Local guides available for 5,000-8,000 AMD. Visit during late afternoon for golden hour photography, and combine with nearby Dilijan for a full day experience.

Experience Traditional Crafts in Dilijan Old Town

Wander through the reconstructed 19th-century neighborhood where local artisans demonstrate traditional Armenian crafts including pottery, woodcarving, and carpet weaving. Visit workshops where you can observe masters at work and purchase authentic handmade souvenirs. The area also features traditional architecture with characteristic wooden balconies and stone foundations.

Booking Tip: Workshop visits are free, with crafts ranging from 2,000-50,000 AMD. Many artisans speak basic English. Best visited Tuesday-Sunday when most workshops are open, avoiding Monday closures.

Wine Tasting in Ijevan Region

Sample distinctive wines from Armenia's northeastern wine region, known for unique indigenous grape varieties and traditional qvevri (clay vessel) fermentation methods. Local wineries offer tastings paired with regional specialties including aged cheeses, dried fruits, and traditional Armenian lavash bread. The area's microclimate produces wines with distinctive mineral characteristics.

Booking Tip: Winery tours cost 3,000-8,000 AMD including 3-5 wine tastings. Book ahead through accommodation or call directly. Best visited April-November when weather permits vineyard tours.

Getting There

Tavush Province is easily accessible from Yerevan by car or bus, with the journey taking 2-3 hours depending on your destination within the province. Regular marshrutkas (minibuses) depart from Yerevan's Kilikia Bus Station to major towns like Dilijan, Ijevan, and Vanadzor, costing 1,500-2,500 AMD per person. For more flexibility, rent a car in Yerevan or hire a private driver for approximately 25,000-35,000 AMD per day. The scenic route via the M4 highway offers stunning mountain vistas and passes through several historic villages worth exploring.

Getting Around

Within Tavush Province, local transportation consists primarily of marshrutkas connecting major towns, though services can be infrequent outside peak hours. Taxis are available in larger settlements like Dilijan and Ijevan, with rides typically costing 500-2,000 AMD for short distances. For maximum flexibility exploring monasteries and natural sites, a rental car is highly recommended as many attractions are located in remote areas with limited public transport. Walking and hiking are excellent ways to explore individual towns and natural areas, with most monastery complexes accessible on foot from parking areas.

Where to Stay

Dilijan town center

Haghpat village

Ijevan city center

Parz Lake area

Vanadzor outskirts

Sanahin monastery vicinity

Food & Dining

Tavush Province offers authentic Armenian mountain cuisine featuring fresh trout from local rivers, wild mushrooms, and herbs gathered from surrounding forests. Traditional restaurants in Dilijan serve specialties like khorovats (barbecue), jingyalov hats (herb-filled flatbread), and local honey-based desserts. Family-run establishments offer the most authentic experiences, often featuring home-grown ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. Don't miss trying local wines paired with aged cheeses, and be sure to sample fresh lavash bread baked in traditional tonir ovens. Many guesthouses offer home-cooked meals that provide insight into regional culinary traditions.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Tavush Province is from late spring through early autumn (May-October) when hiking trails are accessible and weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather but can be crowded at popular sites like Dilijan. September and early October provide spectacular autumn foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it perfect for photography and hiking. Winter visits are possible but some mountain roads may be challenging, and accommodation options are limited. Spring (April-May) brings wildflowers and mild weather, though some high-altitude areas may still have snow.

Insider Tips

Purchase a combined monastery pass from tourist information centers to save money when visiting multiple religious sites

Pack layers as mountain weather can change quickly, and temperatures drop significantly at higher elevations even in summer

Learn a few Armenian phrases as English is less common in rural areas, and locals greatly appreciate the effort to communicate in their language

Things to Do in Tavush Province