Debed Canyon Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally stunning Debed Canyon with our comprehensive tour guide. Find the best things to do, places to stay, and must-try dishes in Debed Canyon.


Introduction to Debed Canyon

Debed Canyon, located in Northern Armenia, is a magnificent natural beauty that stretches for over 60 km. The canyon is carved by the Debed River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, hills, and forests. Debed Canyon is home to several culturally significant landmarks, museums, and churches. It is also a prime destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping.

In this comprehensive tour guide to Debed Canyon, we will take you through the must-see attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and local culture and customs. Let’s dive in!

List of Places to Visit in Debed Canyon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Haghpat Monastery: One of the most important monuments in Armenia, the Haghpat Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery dates back to the 10th century and boasts remarkable architecture and intricate decors.

  • Sanahin Monastery: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sanahin Monastery is a must-visit destination for history buffs. The monastery dates back to the 10th century and is renowned for its fascinating frescoes, stones carvings, and bas-reliefs.

  • Museum of Mikoyan Brothers: Located in Sanahin, this museum is dedicated to the Mikoyan brothers, who played a pivotal role in Armenian politics.

Natural Attractions of Debed Canyon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lori Berd Fortress: Built in the 10th century, the Lori Berd Fortress served as a significant stronghold during the reign of the Armenian Kingdom. Visitors can explore the remains of the fortress and learn about its rich history.

  • Akhtala Monastery: The Akhtala Monastery is famous for housing beautiful frescoes that date back to the 13th century. The monastery is also a popular destination for its serene and picturesque surroundings.

  • Jukhtak Vank Church: The Jukhtak Vank Church is a 700-year-old monastery that sits atop a hill overlooking the Debed River. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Debed Canyon

  • The Haghpat-Akhtala Trail: This 12km hiking trail is considered one of the best trails in Debed Canyon. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Akhtala Monastery and the surrounding forests.

  • The Dilijan-Debed Canyon Bike Trail: This bike trail is a challenging but exhilarating 65km trail that takes you through lush forests and undulating hills.

Best Things to Do in Debed Canyon: Activities and Tours

  • Visit a Lavash Bakery: Lavash is a traditional Armenian flatbread that is baked in clay ovens. Visitors can watch the process of making Lavash and even taste some freshly baked ones.

  • Visit a local dairy: Armenia is famous for its dairy products, and Debed Canyon is no exception. Visitors can tour a dairy farm and watch the process of cheese and yogurt making.

  • Take a hot air balloon ride: Experience the beauty of Debed Canyon from a different perspective with a hot air balloon ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Debed Canyon

Day Activity
1 Visit Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries
2 Hike the Haghpat-Akhtala Trail
3 Discover the local food scene
4 Visit the Museum of Mikoyan Brothers and Akhtala Monastery
5 Take a hot air balloon ride
6 Visit Dilijan and Lori Berd Fortress
7 Hike the Jukhtak Vank Church trail

Food and Drink Scene of Debed Canyon

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khorovats: Khorovats is the Armenian version of barbecue, where meat is grilled over an open flame. It is often served with fresh herbs, vegetables, and bread.

  • Mantou: Mantou is a traditional Armenian dumpling that is filled with spiced meat and vegetables.

  • Tolma: Tolma is a dish made of stuffed grape leaves, often filled with spiced meat, rice, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Armenian wine: Armenia is famous for its wine, with a history of winemaking that dates back to 4,000 years. Some of the most popular Armenian wines include Areni, Voskepar, and Khndoghni.

  • Armenian brandy: Armenian brandy is renowned for its exceptional quality and is often compared to cognac.

Where to Stay in Debed Canyon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget Hotel: This four-star hotel is located near the Debed River and offers guests stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Babadzor B&B: This cozy bed and breakfast offer visitors a glimpse of local life in Debed Canyon.

  • Sanahin Bridge B&B: This guesthouse is located near the Sanahin Monastery and offers visitors comfortable accommodation and fantastic views.

What to Buy in Debed Canyon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Carpet and rugs: Debed Canyon is famous for its handwoven carpets and rugs, often featuring traditional Armenian motifs.

  • Silverware: Armenian silverware is renowned for its intricate designs and filigree work, often incorporating religious symbols and motifs.

Local Culture and Customs of Debed Canyon

  • Hospitality: Armenians are known for their hospitality, and visitors to Debed Canyon can expect a warm welcome from locals.

  • Respect for elders: Armenians have a deep-rooted respect for the elderly, and visitors are expected to show the same respect.

Best Time to Visit Debed Canyon

The best time to visit Debed Canyon is between May and October when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Debed Canyon

Do:

  • Try traditional Armenian cuisine.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Explore the numerous hiking trails in Debed Canyon.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.

  • Litter or damage the natural and cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Debed Canyon

Debed Canyon is generally safe for visitors. However, visitors should take normal precautions against petty theft and be aware of their surroundings.

Health in Debed Canyon

Visitors are advised to drink bottled water and take normal precautions to avoid waterborne diseases. Medical facilities in Debed Canyon are limited, and visitors should have travel insurance with medical coverage.

Getting to Debed Canyon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Debed Canyon

The nearest airport to Debed Canyon is Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, which is about a 2.5-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Debed Canyon

There are several bus stations in Yerevan that offer regular bus services to Debed Canyon.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car or a private taxi for transportation to Debed Canyon.

How to Get Around in Debed Canyon

The best way to get around in Debed Canyon is by car or taxi. Visitors can also use public buses that run between the major towns and villages of Debed Canyon.

Where to Go Next from Debed Canyon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Dilijan: Known as the “Switzerland of Armenia,” Dilijan is a picturesque town that offers visitors numerous hiking trails, wildlife tours, and cultural tours.

  • Lake Sevan: One of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Sevan is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and boating.

Conclusion

Debed Canyon is a true hidden gem in Armenia, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With numerous cultural landmarks, hiking trails, local food, and wine, there’s something for everyone in Debed Canyon. We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to Debed Canyon.

Debed Canyon with Tumanyan Town at the bottom Debed Canyon with Tumanyan Town at the bottom View of Debed Canyon from Haghpat Monastery View of Debed Canyon from Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Debed Canyon from Kobayr Monastery belltower Debed Canyon from Kobayr Monastery belltower