Aparan - Discovering Armenia

Travelling to Aparan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Aparan, 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 Aparan 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 Aparan, 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 Aparan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Aparan

Aparan is a town located in the Aragatsotn province of Armenia. It is situated about 45 km northwest of the capital city of Yerevan and has a population of approximately 13,000 people. The town is known for its historical and cultural significance, as well as its beautiful natural surroundings. It boasts many interesting sights, including the 11th-century Saint Astvatsatsin Church, the Saghmosavank Monastery, the Aparan Memorial Complex, and the Aparan Reservoir. Additionally, Aparan is famous for its traditional carpet weaving industry, and visitors can observe the process and purchase high-quality handmade carpets at the local workshops.

What to visit in Aparan

1. Saghmosavank Monastery: a 13th-century Armenian monastery located in the village of Saghmosavan. It is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the Kasagh River Gorge.
2. Arshakid Mausoleum: this ancient burial chamber dates back to the 4th century AD and is located in the town of Aparan. It is believed to be the final resting place of an Armenian prince from the Arshakid dynasty.
3. Aparan Reservoir: this manmade lake is a popular spot for fishing and swimming in summer, and it also offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Voskevaz Winery: located in the nearby village of Voskevaz, this winery offers tours and tastings of its award-winning wines, which are made from locally grown grapes.
5. The Gorge of Qasakh River: this stunning gorge is located just outside of Aparan and offers hiking trails with beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscape.
6. Dzorakap Monastery: a medieval Armenian monastery located in the village of Dzorakap. It is known for its beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings.
7. Tsaghkahovit Fortress: an ancient fortress located near the village of Zovuni. It was built in the 9th century AD and played a key role in defending the region against invaders.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Aparan.

When to go on holiday to Aparan

The best time to visit Aparan, Armenia is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing can be enjoyed. Temperatures during these months are generally between 20°C to 30°C, making it a comfortable climate for tourists. It is worth noting that the spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) seasons are also good times to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. However, winter (December to February) can be quite severe with heavy snowfall and extreme temperatures, so it's not recommended to visit during this season unless you plan to engage in winter sports activities.

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

How to get to Aparan

To get to Aparan, Armenia you can take a bus or taxi from Yerevan. The bus ride from Yerevan to Aparan takes approximately one hour and costs around 500 AMD (less than $1 USD). Buses leave from the Kilikia bus station in Yerevan and run regularly throughout the day.
Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi from Yerevan to Aparan. The cost for a one-way trip is around 8000-10000 AMD (approximately $16-$20 USD). If you prefer to drive yourself, you can rent a car in Yerevan and drive to Aparan. The distance between Yerevan and Aparan is around 50 kilometers and takes around one hour to drive. It is recommended to use a GPS or a map to navigate.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Aparan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Aparan

1. Kakhana - Aparan's signature dish, made from boiled meat with potatoes, onions, and thickened sour cream. It is usually served with matnakash bread.
2. Harissa - A traditional Armenian porridge made from pounded wheat, chicken, and spices. It is a hearty meal that is usually eaten during colder months.
3. Dolma - Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, herbs, and spices. It can be served hot or cold and is a popular dish in Armenian cuisine.
4. Tolma - Similar to dolma, it is a stuffed dish, but instead of grape leaves, vegetables like eggplants, tomatoes, and bell peppers are used.
5. Khorovats - A type of barbecue that is popular all over Armenia. It is usually made from pork or lamb and marinated in spices, then grilled to perfection.
6. Matnakash - A traditional Armenian bread that has a unique pattern in its shape, resembling the shape of a human ear. It is usually served with butter and cheese.
7. Zhingyalov Hats - A flatbread stuffed with a variety of fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, basil, and greens. It is a popular vegetarian dish in Armenian cuisine.
8. Lavash - A paper-thin unleavened flatbread that is a staple in Armenian cuisine. It is eaten with almost every meal and often used to wrap various meats and vegetables.
You can find general info about typical foods in Armenia here.

Is Aparan an expensive destination for tourists?

Aparan is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists. Accommodation and food costs are relatively inexpensive compared to other popular tourist destinations. However, transportation costs may vary depending on the mode of transportation used and the distance traveled. It's recommended to compare prices and plan accordingly to stay within a budget while traveling in Aparan.

Where to find accomodation in Aparan

Aparan is located in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia, so it's best to find accommodation in Aparan itself or in nearby towns like Ashtarak, Talin or Aragats. These towns have a range of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. Additionally, Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia, is only about an hour's drive away and has a wide variety of accommodation options as well.
You can check hotel prices at Aparan here:
Booking.com

Is Aparan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Aparan is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Armenia is known for its friendly and hospitable people, and crime rates are relatively low. However, as is the case with any destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when travelling alone or at night. It is also recommended to take basic safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas.
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 Aparan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Aparan the most?

Aparan, Armenia is a great destination for families and couples who enjoy the outdoors and experiencing Armenian culture. This region is known for its hiking trails, including the famous Mount Ara, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, Aparan is home to historic monasteries and other cultural landmarks, perfect for those interested in history and culture. While there may not be as many nightlife options for young people as there are in other areas of Armenia, the quiet and peaceful atmosphere makes it a great destination for a relaxing vacation. Overall, Aparan offers something for everyone, but those who appreciate nature and history will likely enjoy the region the most.

How to get around Aparan

In Aparan, the most common modes of transportation are taxi, minibus, and private car. However, the most convenient and efficient way to move around the city is by using a taxi. There are plenty of taxi services available and the fares are relatively cheap. Minibuses are also a good option, especially if you want to travel to nearby towns or villages, but they can be crowded and not very comfortable. If you prefer to have more flexibility and freedom to explore the area, renting a car might be a good option as well.

What to see around Aparan

Sure, here are a few options for day trips from Aparan: 1. Amberd Fortress - A medieval fortress located on the slopes of Mount Aragats, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Hovhannavank Monastery - A 13th-century Armenian monastery situated on a hill overlooking the Kasagh River canyon.
3. Saghmosavank Monastery - An 13th-century Armenian monastery located on the edge of a deep canyon, also offering wonderful views of the surrounding area.
4. Lake Arpi National Park - A scenic park located near the border with Turkey, with beautiful mountainous landscapes and opportunities for hiking.
5. Talin Cathedral - An ancient Armenian cathedral from the 7th century AD, located in the town of Talin and known for its historic significance and intricate stonework.
I hope these options help plan a lovely day trip from Aparan!
For every travel information about Armenia you can click here.

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