Lchashen

Located at an elevation of 1900 meters on the northwestern shore of Lake Sevan, Lchashen is an important archaeological site. In the 1950s, the artificial lowering of the lake's water level exposed a massive Bronze and Iron Age settlement. Archaeologists discovered nearly 30 ancient wooden chariots and carts, which are now displayed in the History Museum of Armenia, along with cuneiform inscriptions from the Urartian king Argishti I. The village is surrounded by the vast waters of Lake Sevan and the Gegham mountains. The shoreline consists of rocky beaches and sparse vegetation typical of the high-altitude climate. Local food focuses heavily on the lake's catch, primarily Sevan trout (ishkhan) and whitefish (siga), often grilled over open fires. Reaching the village takes about 50 minutes by car from Yerevan via the M4 highway. The archaeological zone lies just outside the residential houses, close to the water. The summer months from June to August offer the best conditions for a visit, as winters at this altitude are snowy and temperatures drop below freezing.

Nearby cities

Sevan

Sevan is a popular resort town on the shores of Lake Sevan, Armenia's largest body of water.

Gavar

Gavar is a mountainous city located near Lake Sevan, known for its cold winters and historical monuments.

Vardenis

Vardenis is a town located near the southeastern shore of Lake Sevan, acting as an agricultural hub.

Martuni

Martuni is a town situated on the southern shores of Lake Sevan, known for its fishing and agriculture.

Hrazdan

Hrazdan is an important industrial center in the Kotayk Province, situated on the banks of the Hrazdan River.

Dilijan

Often called the 'Armenian Switzerland', Dilijan is a spa town surrounded by dense forests and national parks.

Charentsavan

Charentsavan was established in the mid-20th century as an industrial hub for machinery and tool manufacturing.

Yenokavan

A picturesque mountain village that has developed into the center for ecotourism and outdoor adventures in Armenia.

Ijevan

Ijevan is a forested city in northeastern Armenia, famous for its carpets, wine, and scenic landscapes.

Abovyan

Abovyan is a modern industrial city located just north of Yerevan, serving as a major satellite town.

History & landmarks

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.

Haghartsin Monastery

A 13th-century monastery complex hidden in the lush, emerald forests of Dilijan National Park.

Nature

Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia and one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world.

Lake Parz

Lake Parz is a small forest lake in Dilijan National Park, known for its crystal-clear water.

Lake Akna

Lake Akna is a picturesque crater lake in the Geghama Mountains, surrounded by alpine meadows.

More places

Mount Azhdahak

Azhdahak is the highest point of the Geghama Mountains, featuring a crater lake at its summit.

Mount Azhdahak

An extinct volcano and the highest peak of the Geghama Mountains, featuring a crater lake.

Geghama Mountains

A volcanic mountain range in central Armenia known for its numerous craters and mountain lakes.

Gegharkunik Potato Farms

The cool climatic conditions around Lake Sevan are excellent for growing high-quality Armenian potatoes.

Sevan National Park

Sevan National Park was established to protect the fragile ecosystem of Lake Sevan and its surroundings.

Sevan Mountain Range

A mountain range along the eastern shores of Lake Sevan offering picturesque views.

Vardenis Mountains

A mountain range forming the southern boundary of the Lake Sevan basin.

Sotk Gold Mine

The Sotk Gold Mine, located in the Gegharkunik Province, is one of the most important gold mines in Armenia.