Mount Armaghan, a truly outstanding SUV adventure

Mount Armaghan is an extinct volcano at an elevation of 2.811m (9,222ft) above the sea level, located in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia. 

The road to the summit, located within the Geghama Mountains, is totally unpaved. It is impassable in winters. At the top of the mountain there is a small volcanic lake called Armaghan lake, partially filled with water, which has a diameter of 100 m and is fed by rainwater. Open to all motorized vehicles, however, strongly recommended for high clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicles. The road is very rough--only try driving it in a 2wd car, if you're planning to buy a new car. Locals say that Armaghan Mount is God's gift, and having once been here, you will certainly return. The drive is definitely worth it. A drive not to be missed! There are many excellent photo opportunities. In 2009 a new domed basalt church was built on the top of the mountain, called Armaghan Church.

Do not travel this road in severe weather conditions. The road is pretty steep. Starting from Madina, at 2.288m above the sea level, the ascent is 5.7 km long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 523 meters and the average gradient is 9.17%, with sections up to 12%. 
Pic: Samvel Martirosyan

 

• Driving the paved mountain road to the border at Sotk Pass
• The road to Vorotan Pass, not recommended if you're prone to car sickness