Exploring Scenic Trails in Dilijan National Park
Greetings, fellow travel enthusiasts! Join me on a virtual journey to one of Armenia’s hidden gems – Dilijan National Park. As an avid lover of Armenia, I can’t wait to share the wonders of this cultural retreat and the picturesque hiking trails that await every nature enthusiast.
Where is Dilijan National Park?
Nestled in the heart of Armenia, Dilijan National Park is located in the Tavush Province. The park covers a vast area, extending between the villages of Teghut and Hovk. To reach this nature lover’s paradise, you can start your journey from Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. A scenic drive of approximately 95 kilometers to the north-east will lead you to the enchanting landscapes of Dilijan.
Armenia, with its rich biodiversity, boasts more than half of the flora and fauna found in the Caucasus region. Among its four national parks – Dilijan, Sevan, Arpi, and Arevik – Dilijan National Park stands out for its unique blend of ancient forests, a mild, humid climate, and rejuvenating mineral springs. Originally established as a nature reserve in 1958, it transformed into a national park in 2002, becoming a haven for those seeking an escape into nature.
Conquering Mount Apakekar
Our first adventure takes us to Mount Apakekar, nestled between the villages of Teghut and Hovk. While its elevation is a modest 1651 meters, the route offers a captivating experience. As we ascend, the Sartsapat mountain range with its upward-reaching cliffs accompanies us. The 11-kilometer journey weaves through meadows, where grazing animals may greet us. From the forested foothills to the mountain’s summit, nature unfolds its beauty in every step.
From Lake Parz to Gosh
Next, we embark on the most popular route, a 7-kilometer trek from Lake Parz to Gosh. The trail winds through a dense beech forest, revealing the breathtaking sights of Lakes Parz and Gosh. The journey continues to the village of Gosh, home to the historic Goshavank Monastery. Along the way, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the “Red Deer Breeding Center,” a collaborative effort between the park and the Caucasus Natural Fund to restore and release red deer into their natural habitat.
From Jukhtak Monastery to Matosavank
For those with limited time, a shorter yet equally fascinating 3.5-kilometer route from Jukhtak Monastery to Matosavank awaits. Traverse the Bldan gorge, ascend to Jukhtak Monastery, and descend through a dense forest to discover the hidden Matosavank Monastery. This compact journey provides a glimpse into Dilijan’s historical and natural wonders in just 1-2 hours.
From Jukhtak Monastery to Haghartsin
For the adventurous souls seeking a more strenuous hike, the 20-kilometer route from Jukhtak Monastery to Haghartsin promises an exhilarating experience. Passing through dense forests, ascending the Ijevan Mountains, navigating rocky terrains, and finally descending to the iconic Haghartsin Monastery – this trail is a perfect blend of challenge and reward.
In this blog post, I’ve introduced you to some of the captivating hiking trails in Dilijan National Park. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking to explore national parks, Dilijan has something for everyone. As you plan your next adventure, consider immersing yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Dilijan – an experience that promises memories to last a lifetime. Stay tuned for more tales from the trails and the heart of Armenia’s wilderness! 🌲🏞️
