Sevan National Park National Park

Address: Sevan National Park, Gegharkunik Province, Armenia

Website: https://www.armenia.travel/en/article/lake-sevan

Sevan National Park protects Lake Sevan and its surrounding shoreline and highland ecosystems in the Gegharkunik region of Armenia; the park was established to conserve the lake’s natural and cultural features.

A large alpine freshwater lake at high elevation, the area offers shoreline views, swimming and boating in summer and short hikes along the nearby hills. The Sevan Peninsula contains a prominent monastic complex visitors commonly visit for views across the water.

The park was created to protect the lake’s environment and the cultural monuments along its shores. The peninsula monastery complex dates from the medieval period and remains one of the park’s principal cultural sites.

Situated in the Gegharkunik province of eastern Armenia, the park surrounds Lake Sevan and the adjacent highland terrain on the Armenian Plateau.

• Viewing point: Lake Sevan sits at high elevation and the peninsula provides panoramic views across the lake, making it a popular short visit from nearby towns.
• Best time to visit: Summer months bring beaches and water activities along the lake shore, while shoulder seasons are cooler and quieter for hiking.

What to See#

• Sevanavank Monastery: A hilltop monastic complex dating to the 9th century situated on the Sevan Peninsula; the monastery consists of two churches that are a frequent stop for visitors to the park.

Sevan is about 65 km northeast of Yerevan by road (roughly 1-1.5 hours). Drive or take marshrutka minibuses from the Sevan bus station; the park and Sevanavank are a short drive from the town of Sevan.

• Rent a boat at the eastern shore of Lake Sevan to explore shoreline monasteries and remote beaches.
• Try the local trout in lakeside restaurants - Sevan is known for its fresh catch.
• Visit Sevanavank monastery in the late afternoon for softer light and better photos of the peninsula.