Top 7 Mountain Lakes of Armenia

Armenian lakes are diverse. There are about 100 lakes in Armenia, a part of which dries up during the dry season. Lakes of Armenia are freshwater and diverse in their origin. There are lakes of landslide, crater, and glacial origin. The largest lake in Armenia is the freshwater Lake Sevan. However in this article we will focus on mountain lakes. The mountain lakes of Armenia listed below are one of the most beautiful and interesting lakes in the country. You can see them during your ascents, and in some of them you can and need to swim.

Mountain Lakes of Armenia

Crater Lake of Azhdahak

There are many extinct volcanoes in Armenia. Azhdahak is one of the most beautiful extinct volcanoes in Armenia. The name Azhdahak is connected to the Armenian mythology. The mountain is known for ancient dragon stones (stone sculptures in the form of Armenian dragons – vishaps) and petroglyphs, which depict animals, mythical creatures and rituals.

At the top of Mount Azhdahak there is a crater lake, which is the highest mountain lake in the country. It is located at an altitude of 3515 meters above sea level. The water in the lake is crystal clear and icy. After a long ascent in hot weather, it will be especially nice to dip in the crater lake of Azhdahak.

Lake Tsakqar

Another mountain lake that you need to swim in is Tsakqar. This mountain lake is located at an altitude of 3272 m above sea level. The area is 3 hectares. The lake is located in the Syunik region, at the summit of the Zangezur mountain range.

The views of the lake are breathtaking. Even in the Armenian summer heat, there are still blocks of ice in the lake. But you will not regret it if you decide to swim in this icy lake. It is a great way to freshen up, recharge and feel the adrenaline rush. In summer, you can set up tents near the lake and spend the night in this wonderful place. This will be an adventure that you will remember for a lifetime.

Lake Nazeli

Lake Nazeli is located in the Gegharkunik region, in Geghama Mountains, at an altitude of 3100 m above sea level. It is located between the mountain peaks of Azhdahak and Spitakasar. Lake Nazeli is also called Badi (Duck Lake).

This mountain lake is another convenient place for overnight hikes. For example, on your way to the top of Mount Azhdahak, you can rest and spend the night near Lake Nazeli. During the day you will see gorgeous landscapes, and at night you will see an incredibly beautiful starry sky.

Lake Armaghan

This crater lake is located at an altitude of 2793 meters above sea level, on the top of Mount Armaghan. The extinct volcano Armaghan is located in the Gegharkunik region. It is a natural monument. A small lake Armaghan makes this mountain look even more beautiful.

Alpine plants growing around the lake give this place an incredibly beautiful look. However, it is better not to swim in this lake. A layer of slit covering the bottom of the lake makes it difficult and dangerous for swimming.

Lake Rapi

The Aragats masif is rich in mountain lakes. Lake Rapi is one of the most beautiful lakes of Aragas. It is located in the northern part of the massif, at an altitude of 3001 m above sea level.

The North face of Mount Aragats rises above Lake Rapi. The views of the North face and alpine vegetation make this place indescribably beautiful. You can swim in Lake Rapi, as well as have an overnight stay on its shore. Also, at a convenient time of the year, paddleboarding tours are held on Lake Rapi, during which you can go paddling.

Lake Umroy

Umroy is another lake located on Mount Aragats. It is situated on the eastern slope of the mountain, at an altitude of 3050 meters above sea level. Umroy is the largest lake of Mount Aragats. This beautiful mountain lake is included in the list of natural monuments in Armenia.

Lake Ukhtasar

Lake Ukhtasar (Tsghuk) is located at an altitude of 3300 m above sea level, 2.3 km north-west of the Tsghuk mountain peak. The water in the lake is crystal clear and cold at any time of the year.

This lake is one of the most interesting places in the Syunik region. On the shore of Lake Ukhtasar there are many petroglyphs, which depict hunters with weapons, various types of animals, rituals, and even astrological symbols. All this testifies to the fact that thousands of years ago people lived here. It can be assumed that over the centuries people came here for pilgrimage and performed various rituals.

Having discovered these mountain lakes of Armenia, you will enjoy the beautiful landscapes and refreshing water, as well as learn many new things about this country. Ancient sculptures and drawings located near these lakes will tell you about the history, myths and legends of Armenia.

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