Plizio Visual Lab
Khosrov Forest
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Forest
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Khosrov Forest State Reserve in the Ararat Province is one of the world's oldest protected areas, with a legacy dating back to the 4th century. It was established by the Armenian King Khosrov III Kotak between 330 and 338 AD as a royal hunting ground and a sanctuary for wildlife. The modern reserve was officially formally organized in 1958 and spans approximately 29,000 hectares in the Geghama Mountains. The landscape features a mix of arid semi-deserts, juniper forests, and alpine meadows, supporting an extraordinary range of biodiversity. Inhabitants include rare species such as the Caucasian leopard, Syrian brown bear, and the Bezoar goat. Beyond its natural significance, the area is home to numerous historical monuments, including the Havuts Tar monastery and the nearby basalt columns of the Garni Gorge. The reserve serves as an open-air museum of natural history and remains a critical habitat for endangered species of the Armenian Highlands, representing a unique intersection of ancient history and environmental conservation.
- Location: Armenia
- Top sights: Vishapak`ar · Geldzhigin · Khosrovasar
- Nearby: Ararat (34 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -6 | -4 | 2 | 6 | 12 | 17 | 21 | 21 | 16 | 9 | 2 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 16 | 15 | 29 | 42 | 57 | 44 | 25 | 19 | 20 | 33 | 19 | 15 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The reserve is typically accessed from the capital city or nearby villages by arranged transport, as public options to the entrance are usually limited.
Best season
The best time to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mildest and the ancient flora is in full bloom or showing autumn colors.
Terrain & paths
Expect a mix of rugged trails, rocky paths, and dense woodland areas that require a reasonable level of fitness for exploring this historic natural environment.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots, ample water supplies, sun protection, and a reliable physical or downloaded map are highly recommended when venturing into this expansive ancient reserve.
Parking
Visitors generally leave their vehicles at designated entrance gates or nearby base communities before proceeding on foot or with an authorized local guide.
Safety
Stick to the marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem, and always be aware of local wildlife, ensuring you travel with a guide if unfamiliar with the vast area.
Time needed
A typical visit ranges from a half-day excursion to a full-day hike, allowing enough time to appreciate the ancient natural beauty without rushing through the landscape.
Geography
Facts
- The original hunting ground was created by King Khosrov III between 330-338 AD.
- The modern state reserve was formally established in 1958.
- The total area of the reserve covers approximately 29,196 hectares.
- Over 1,800 plant species grow here, accounting for 50% of Armenian flora.
- The famous 'Symphony of Stones' basalt columns are located within the reserve.
- It is a crucial habitat for the critically endangered Caucasian leopard.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Khosrov Forest (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How difficult are the trails in Khosrov Forest?
Difficulty varies a lot, from easy walks to more demanding routes. The terrain is dry, rocky, and often sunny.
What is the best season?
Spring and autumn are usually the most pleasant. Summer can be very hot, and in winter some trails are harder to use.
Are there toilets or rest areas?
At main entry points or visitor spots, usually yes, but inside the area they are rare. Bring water and snacks.
Is a guide useful?
Yes, especially for longer or more remote routes. A guide helps with navigation, wildlife signs, and safe rest spots.
What is the area known for?
For dry gorges, rocky landscapes, wildlife, and a very well-preserved natural area. It is one of Armenia’s oldest protected spaces.
Khosrov Forest: where is it located?
Khosrov Forest is located in Armenia.
Khosrov Forest: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vishapak`ar, Geldzhigin, Khosrovasar.
Khosrov Forest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Khosrov Forest: why is it worth visiting?
The Khosrov Forest State Reserve in the Ararat Province is one of the world's oldest protected areas, with a legacy dating back to the 4th century.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Armenia →
Nearby cities
Masis
Masis is a notable railway junction and industrial center located in the agricultural Ararat Province.
Artashat
Artashat is the capital of the Ararat Province, built near the ruins of the ancient Armenian capital of the same name.
Ararat
The city of Ararat is an industrial town in the Ararat plain, known primarily for its large cement factory.
Metsamor
Metsamor is a modern city built to house the workers of Armenia's only nuclear power plant.
Abovyan
Abovyan is a modern industrial city located just north of Yerevan, serving as a major satellite town.
Gavar
Gavar is a mountainous city located near Lake Sevan, known for its cold winters and historical monuments.
Lchashen
Lchashen is a village near Lake Sevan, widely recognized for its important Bronze Age archaeological discoveries.
Hrazdan
Hrazdan is an important industrial center in the Kotayk Province, situated on the banks of the Hrazdan River.
Charentsavan
Charentsavan was established in the mid-20th century as an industrial hub for machinery and tool manufacturing.
Sevan
Sevan is a popular resort town on the shores of Lake Sevan, Armenia's largest body of water.
History & landmarks
Khor Virap
A monastery in the Ararat plain, known for its stunning views of Mount Ararat.
Selim (Orbelian's Caravanserai)
Armenia's best-preserved caravanserai, a 14th-century stop on the Silk Road located at 2410 meters altitude.
Sevanavank
A monastic complex located on a peninsula at the northwestern shore of Lake Sevan with scenic views.
Nature
More places
Ararat Cement Factory
The Ararat Cement Factory is a large production facility that supplies construction materials to both the domestic market and for export.
Khor Virap
An important pilgrimage site offering a spectacular view of Mount Ararat, famous as the prison of Gregory the Illuminator.
Spayka Greenhouse Complex
The Spayka Greenhouse Complex in the Ararat valley is a massive high-tech agricultural facility.
Ararat Valley Vineyards
The sun-drenched slopes at the foot of Mount Ararat produce some of the best wine grapes for wine production in the Caucasus.
Zvartnots Cathedral
The ruins of a 7th-century centrally planned aisled tetraconch type Armenian cathedral.
Ararat Plain
A wide and fertile plain along the Aras River, the agricultural heart of Armenia.
Azat Valley
A picturesque valley in the Kotayk region, partly designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Geghard Monastery
A medieval monastery being partially carved out of the adjacent mountain, surrounded by cliffs.