My hardest ascent

“Mount Katar reminds me of an inaccessible but charming Armenian woman”, says Anna Khachatryan, who recently joined our hiking group, in our conversation about the expedition to Mount Katar.

First time in Katar

Mount Katar is the second highest peak of the Khustup-Katar massif. To our knowledge, no one has ever climbed this mountain. As a part of this expeditionary hike, we were the first to climb this peak, 3012 m high, with beautiful and breathtaking views. This two-day hike was full of adventures and new discoveries.

“Hours, kilometres, and we ended up in Tatev village. Fortunately, we spent the night indoors and not in tents. We woke up early in the morning and reached an altitude of 2700 meters by cars. From here, we began our ascent to Mount Katar. At first, it seemed that the ascent would be easy. It was a little foggy; we were surrounded by unbelievably beautiful landscapes. I wanted to take pictures all the time. On our way to the top, we fell, got tired, and ran out of breath. Three hours later, we were at the summit (3012 m). There is nothing better than the feeling of triumph when you overcome a difficult peak”, says Anna.

This was Anna’s first expeditionary hike. “Seems crazy, that none of the living people (at least not a single hiking group in Armenia) has ever climbed Katar, and I am among the 16 lucky ones who will do it first. I think that’s why this trip will always be special for me”.

The hardest ascent

She says that physically this was her most difficult ascent. “For a moment my heart was pounding, I was out of breath and very tired. I kept repeating to myself that I must reach the top. The group was already on top, when I joined them. I came last, but was very happy that I managed to overcome this challenge”.

Recalling that day, Anna said, “When we reached the top, Hrachuhi presented the whole group with ArmGeo badges. It was a very symbolic moment, as if we received medals”.

Anna says that she started hiking when she was 12-13 years old. “The first camps were in Byurakan with scouts from other countries. Then the university began and I stopped hiking for several years. I have been following ArmGeo for more than three years, but for some reason did not join their hikes. My brother inspired me, when he started to hike with them in 2019. He introduced me to ArmGeo, and now I consider myself a part of this big family”.

Endless discoveries

Anna says that it is impossible to list all the reasons why she participates in hikes. “I love sunsets and sunrises on the mountains, colors, and the pleasant fatigue after a long walk. I love meeting new people and seeing my friends with whom we already share many memories. On the other hand, hikes are endless discoveries. Firstly, you discover yourself, then a hiker next to you, and then the nature. To be honest, I still have many fears. In the mountains, I try to find stronger Anna. One day I will find her”.

Anna has been participating in hikes for two months, but the memories that she collected during this time make it seem like much more time has passed. “Each hike “recharges” me. After many months of break, I am finally motivated to work and implement my plans”.

Friendship with Armenia

During this time, Anna realized that she did not know Armenia well. “I always thought that you need to know you country before you start discovering other parts of the world. While hiking, I realized that my friendship with Armenia has just begun”.

Anna has a blog where she talks about her travels and about herself in general. “I think that my blog completely reflects me. I notice details, capture the atmosphere, share thoughts and do it all in my own way. I want to see more quality content in Armenian YouTube, so I try to contribute by sharing what I see. Many people have no idea about a hiking life. Now, hiking has a special place in my life. Therefore, this is a great opportunity to talk about this topic and inspire others”.

Now Anna dreams of going hiking in other countries. She believes, that with the rediscovery of hiking, an interesting new phase began in her life.

Finishing the conversation, Anna said, “I am forever in love with the mountains”.

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Hiking Memoirs