Stepanavan Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich Stepanavan in Armenia with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, and more.


Introduction to Stepanavan

Stepanavan is a picturesque town located in Northern Armenia, in the Caucasus region of Asia. It is surrounded by the lush forests of Dsegh, Pambak, and Tavush. Since it is the land of the famous Armenian writer Hovhannes Tumanyan, Stepanavan has always been a cultural hub. It is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the natural beauty of Armenia and its rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Stepanavan

If you’re planning a trip to Stepanavan, here are the must-visit places you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hovhannes Tumanyan House-Museum: This museum is dedicated to the famous Armenian writer Hovhannes Tumanyan, who was born in the village of Dsegh. Located in the center of Stepanavan, the museum displays Tumanyan’s personal belongings, manuscripts, and photographs. You can also enjoy his collections of folk tales, stories, and poems while you’re there.
  • Stepanavan Dendropark: This arboretum is located on the eastern slopes of the mountain range, overlooking the town of Stepanavan. You’ll see a rich collection of plants from all over the world, with some dating back to the late 1800s. It’s a great place to relax and stroll around, and the view of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking.
  • Karahunge: While this ancient site is a bit further from Stepanavan, visitors absolutely must see it. Karahunge is an ancient astronomical observatory at the top of a hill. It is believed to be over 7,500 years old, and it has over 2000 stones standing on a 3-hectare land.

Natural Attractions of Stepanavan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Odzun Church: This 5th-century church is located in the village of Odzun, near Stepanavan. It is a great example of Armenian architecture and religious art. The surrounding nature is simply stunning and the lush green mountains are visible from the top of the church.
  • Lori Fortress: This medieval fortress is located on a hill above the village of Lori. The views of the surrounding area are breathtaking, and the fortress itself is an amazing example of Armenian architecture.
  • Lake Arpi National Park: This park spans over 330 hectares, and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can hike through the park and see rare plant species such as the Armenian walnut, as well as various animal species such as bezoar goats and wild horses.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stepanavan

As a mountainous area, Stepanavan is perfect for hiking and biking. If you’re looking to explore the trails of Stepanavan, here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Dsegh-Kalinin Park
  • The Pambak River Gorge
  • The Tavush Region Hiking Trail
  • The Yenokavan Canyons

Best Things to Do in Stepanavan: Activities and Tours

Here’s a list of things to do in Stepanavan that will give you a unique experience:

  • Zip-lining in Yell Extreme Park
  • Swimming in Odzun Mineral Springs
  • Food Tour of Stepanavan
  • Horseback Riding in Dsegh

Week-Long Itinerary for Stepanavan

Here’s an itinerary suggestion for a week-long stay in Stepanavan:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Hovhannes Tumanyan House-Museum, explore the town of Stepanavan
Day 2 Drive to Karahunge, visit Lake Arpi National Park
Day 3 Hike the Dsegh-Kalinin Park Trail
Day 4 Visit Odzun Church, go zip-lining in Yell Extreme Park
Day 5 Visit Lori Fortress, go swimming in Odzun Mineral Springs
Day 6 Hike the Pambak River Gorge Trail
Day 7 Explore Tavush Region Hiking Trail and the Yenokavan Canyons

As each activity may take a few hours to complete, plan accordingly.

Food and Drink Scene of Stepanavan

Armenian cuisine is considered one of the oldest in the world, and Stepanavan boasts a rich food culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khashlama – A traditional meat stew cooked in a clay pot with vegetables and spices
  • Manti - Dumplings usually stuffed with spiced lamb, beef or cheese and served with yogurt sauce.
  • Khorovats - A popular Armenian barbecue dish, made with skewered and grilled meats and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Armenian Brandy - Considered some of the best brandy in the world, Armenian brandy is a must-try for anyone visiting Stepanavan.
  • Wine - Armenian wine is produced using ancient methods that have been handed down from generation to generation. The result is a range of delicious wines that reflect the local terroir.

Where to Stay in Stepanavan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Stepanavan has a variety of accommodation options ranging from comfortable hotels to backpacker-style hostels. Here are some options:

  • Hotel Alex: Located in the city center of Stepanavan, Hotel Alex offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
  • Camping in Odzun: This is the perfect option for those who want to comfortably experience nature. Tents and camping equipment are available.
  • Dsegh Hostel: Located near Hovhannes Tumanyan House-Museum, this hostel offers affordable dormitory-style accommodation with free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Stepanavan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

  • Handmade Pottery: You’ll see many shops selling unique handmade pottery in Stepanavan.
  • Armenian Wine: A bottle of Armenian wine is a great choice to bring back home with you.
  • Traditional Carpet: Stepanavan is known for its beautiful carpets which are hand-loomed in the traditional Armenian style.

Local Culture and Customs of Stepanavan

Armenia is known for its rich cultural heritage, and Stepanavan is no exception. Here are some customs and traditions of Stepanavan:

  • Pita Bread Tradition: Armenians have many traditional ways of making bread, and one of the most important ones is “Tonir Lavash” which is baked in the Tandoor oven.
  • Folk Music and Dance: Traditional Armenian folk music and dance are an essential part of the cultural heritage of Stepanavan.

Best Time to Visit Stepanavan

The best time to visit Stepanavan is in the spring when the weather is mild and the forests are lush and green. Autumn is also a great time to visit as the colors of the leaves change to shades of orange and yellow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stepanavan

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Try Armenian cuisine and traditional drinks.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to locals.
  • Wear revealing clothing while visiting religious sites.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Stepanavan

Stepanavan is a safe location for travelers. However, it is always advisable to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Health in Stepanavan

There are no significant health risks associated with traveling to Stepanavan, but it’s always best to have updated vaccinations and check with your doctor before traveling to Armenia.

Getting to Stepanavan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Stepanavan

The nearest airport to Stepanavan is Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, Armenia. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Stepanavan.

Bus Stations Near Stepanavan

There are a number of bus routes that run from Yerevan to Stepanavan daily.

Other Options

Renting a car is also a good option to get to Stepanavan.

How to Get Around in Stepanavan

The best way to explore Stepanavan is on foot or by car. However, you can also rent a bike or a horse to get around.

Where to Go Next from Stepanavan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after visiting Stepanavan:

  • Dilijan: A beautiful spa town known for its charming narrow streets and fresh air.
  • Alaverdi: Home to the largest cathedral of Armenia, the Sanahin Monastery, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
  • Gyumri: The second-largest city in Armenia is famous for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Stepanavan is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover or a culture enthusiast, you will find plenty to explore and enjoy in this town. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip to Stepanavan with ease and discover the best this destination has to offer!

Hnevank Monastery Hnevank Monastery Lori Berd Fortress, Church Lori Berd Fortress, Church Stepanavan Dendropark Stepanavan Dendropark Church of St Nicholas in Amrakits village Church of St Nicholas in Amrakits village