Lake Kari and Amberd fortress: a day trip

Lake Kari

Lake Kari lies at around 3,200 m on the southern slopes of Aragats, surrounded by rocky peaks and snowfields that last well into summer. On a calm morning the summits are mirrored in the water. A paved road climbs to the lake from the village of Byurakan, so it is one of the easiest ways to reach real high-mountain scenery in Armenia.

Even in July it can be cold and windy at the lake, so bring a warm jacket. The road is usually open from late spring to autumn and closed by snow in winter.

Amberd fortress

On the way down from the lake, stop at Amberd, a medieval fortress on a rocky promontory high above a river gorge. Next to its walls stands the Vahramashen church, built in 1026. The setting is spectacular at sunset, and on clear nights the dark sky above Amberd is a favourite of photographers.

Byurakan

The village of Byurakan is home to the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory, founded in 1946 by the astronomer Viktor Ambartsumian. It lies on the road to both the lake and the fortress.

How to get there from the hotel

Lake Kari and Amberd are on the southern slopes of the mountain, on the other side from Aragats Hotel. The drive runs around the mountain via Ashtarak and Byurakan; allow around an hour and a half each way. Leave after breakfast, visit the lake in the morning light, and stop at Amberd in the afternoon.

Not driving? We can arrange a car with a driver on request.