Agarak - Discovering Armenia

Travelling to Agarak

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Agarak, a pretty good destination in Armenia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Agarak and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Agarak, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Armenia, here's everything to know about Agarak for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Agarak

Agarak is a town located in the southeastern part of Armenia, near the border with Iran. It is the administrative center of the Syunik Province and has a population of around 5,000 people. The town is situated in a mountainous area and has a dry climate. Its economy is largely based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. Agarak is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including the 9th-century Smbataberd fortress and the ancient Shikahogh Reserve forest. Additionally, the nearby Agarak Copper-Molybdenum Combine is one of the largest mining enterprises in the country.

What to visit in Agarak

Agarak is a town located in the Syunik Province of Armenia. While it is a small town, there are a few tourist attractions that visitors can enjoy. Here are some of them along with some information about each: 1. Zorats Karer - Also known as Karahunj, this ancient stone observatory is said to predate Stonehenge and was used to observe astronomical events. It consists of various standing stones arranged in a circular pattern, and visitors can explore the area and learn more about its history.
2. Shaki Waterfall - Located about 10km from Agarak, this beautiful waterfall cascades down from a height of around 18 meters. Visitors can hike to the waterfall and enjoy the surrounding nature.
3. Khndzoresk - This historic site is a village located on the steep slope of a gorge and is known for its unique rock formations, old houses, and bridge. Visitors can explore the area and learn about its history, including the famous cave dwellers who used to live there.
4. Tatev Monastery - Located about 28km from Agarak, this medieval monastery is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Armenia. Visitors can take a cable car ride to reach the monastery, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Mt. Ukhtasar Petroglyphs - Located about 40km from Agarak, this site is known for its impressive collection of ancient petroglyphs, which depict various animals, people, and objects. Visitors can explore the area and learn about the history of these fascinating artifacts.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that can be found in and around Agarak. Visitors are sure to enjoy the area's rich history, natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences.

When to go on holiday to Agarak

The best time to visit Agarak, Armenia is from May to October, when the weather is warm and dry. During these months, you will experience an average temperature between 20-30°C (68-86°F), and the chances of rain are low, making it the perfect weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, keep in mind that June to August are the hottest months, so if you prefer milder weather, May or September would be a good time to visit.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Agarak

Agarak is a town located in the Syunik Province of Armenia. The most common way to get to Agarak is by taking a taxi, bus or car from the nearby city of Kapan, which is around 15 kilometers north of Agarak. If you are planning to travel from Yerevan to Agarak, you can take a bus or marshrutka (minibus) from the Kilikia Bus Station in Yerevan to Kapan, and then take a taxi or bus to Agarak from there. The journey from Yerevan to Kapan takes around 6-7 hours.
Alternatively, you can hire a private car or taxi to take you to Agarak from Yerevan or any other city in Armenia. This option is more expensive but also more convenient, as you can stop at any point along the way and explore other parts of Armenia. I recommend checking with a local tour agency or using a transportation app like GG, Yandex or Uber to plan your trip to Agarak.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Agarak, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Agarak

Agarak is a town located in the Syunik Province of Armenia, known for its rich cuisine that incorporates both Armenian and regional flavors. Here are some typical foods of Agarak: 1. Khorovats: Khorovats is a type of Armenian barbecue that is made with grilled meat (typically lamb, beef or chicken) and seasoned with salt, pepper, onions, and sometimes other herbs.
2. Gata: Gata is a traditional Armenian pastry that is made with flour, sugar, milk, and butter. It is usually served with tea or coffee, and sometimes stuffed with nuts or other sweet fillings.
3. Dolma: Dolma is a dish made with grape leaves that are stuffed with a mixture of rice, ground beef, and spices. The stuffed leaves are then cooked in a tomato-based sauce and served hot.
4. Manti: Manti are small dumplings that are filled with spiced ground beef, lamb, or sometimes pumpkin. They are usually served in a tomato-based sauce or with a plain yogurt sauce.
5. Ghapama: Ghapama is a traditional Armenian dish that is made with a whole pumpkin that is stuffed with rice, dried fruits, and nuts. The pumpkin is then baked until tender and served hot.
6. Lavash: Lavash is a soft, thin unleavened Armenian flatbread that is popular throughout the country. It is usually served alongside other dishes or used to wrap grilled meats and vegetables.
7. Harissa: Harissa is a popular Armenian porridge that is made with cracked wheat, chicken broth, and a variety of herbs and spices. The dish is usually served hot with pieces of chicken or beef added to it.
You can find general info about typical foods in Armenia here.

Is Agarak an expensive destination for tourists?

Agarak is not typically considered as a popular tourist destination in Armenia. It is a small border town and doesn't offer many attractions for tourists. However, if you are planning to visit Agarak, you will find that the cost of living there is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Armenia. Accommodations and food are generally cheaper in Agarak. However, since Agarak is located close to the Iranian border, there are some restrictions and regulations related to cross-border transportation and trade. You should also take into account any additional expenses related to travel, such as transportation and visa fees. Overall, Agarak is not an expensive destination for tourists, but it may require some extra planning due to its location and border regulations.

Where to find accomodation in Agarak

If you are planning to visit Agarak, your best bet would be to search for accommodation options in the nearby city of Kapan, which is around 20 km away. Kapan offers a range of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments for travelers. Additionally, there are some guesthouses and hotels available in the smaller nearby towns of Meghri and Goris. However, keep in mind that the options in these areas may be more limited.
You can check hotel prices at Agarak here:
Booking.com

Is Agarak a safe destination for tourists?

Armenia is generally considered a safe country for tourists, and the village of Agarak is no exception. However, like any travel destination, it is always important to use common sense and take precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended that you follow basic safety guidelines such as staying aware of your surroundings, keeping your belongings secure, avoiding walking alone at night, and respecting local customs and traditions. It is also a good idea to check the current travel advisories for Armenia before your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Armenia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Agarak.

What type of travelers will enjoy Agarak the most?

Agarak, Armenia is a great place to visit for those who love nature, hiking, and exploring historic sites. It is suitable for couples, families, and solo travelers who want to relax and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the region. The town has a few interesting archaeological and historic sites, such as the Lernapar Museum and the ruins of Aghjots Vank monastery. It is also located near the beautiful Shikahogh State Reserve, which offers stunning nature trails for nature lovers to explore. Overall, Agarak is a perfect getaway for anyone who wants to enjoy the peaceful countryside and its fascinating history.

How to get around Agarak

There are several transportation options for getting around Agarak, Armenia. The most common way is by car, whether it is a rental car, taxi or personal car. There is also public transportation in the form of buses and minibuses, which are affordable but can be crowded and do not run on a fixed schedule. Walking and cycling are other options, as Agarak is a small town with few major roads. However, be aware that the terrain can be hilly and some roads may not be paved.

What to see around Agarak

Here are some places to consider for a day trip from Agarak: 1. The Tatev Monastery - The monastery is located in the mountains near the town of Tatev and is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Armenia. You can take a cable car from Halidzor to the monastery to enjoy stunning views on the way.
2. The Khndzoresk Cave Village - Khndzoresk is a charming cave village located near the town of Goris. The village has many caves and tunnels that were once used as homes, schools, and even churches.
3. The Shushi Fortress - The fortress is located in the city of Shushi, which is a historic town in Artsakh. The fortress offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
4. The Jermuk Waterfall and Hot Springs - Jermuk is a spa town in the mountains of Vayots Dzor Province, famous for its hot springs and mineral water. The Jermuk waterfall is a stunning sight to see, and you can also take a dip in the hot springs.
5. The Vorotan Canyon - The Vorotan Canyon is a picturesque canyon in the Syunik Province that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. You can also hike through the canyon and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
For every travel information about Armenia you can click here.

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