When did you set a goal to climb Ararat?

I have always dreamed of Ararat. I walked its snow-covered slopes up and down in my dreams. I used to imagine myself reaching its top no less than a thousand times. Even now I cannot say what was more real – the ascent to Ararat, which I actually did, or my dreams about Ararat, no matter how fantastic they may seem. 

What kind of obstacles did you face?

The only obstacle between me and Mount Ararat was a border on a map.

How did you imagine the ascent to Ararat?

I thought everything would be the same as during an ordinary mountain ascent.

And what was it like in reality?

In reality, everything turned out differently – not as I had imagined. I walked slowly and didn’t even feel like I was walking. I was neither cold nor hot. There was no fatigue, I was simply climbing to the top – to freedom. Maybe that is how happiness feels. 

What were your thoughts when on the peak of the mountain?

I was thinking about the sun! All my thoughts were about the sun.

What is one word to describe your emotions at that moment?

I can’t find just one word, so I’ll tell you about my emotions in a whole sentence: “My heart was filled with light”.

What was your most memorable moment?

Joy, which I experienced on the top of Ararat… I can hardly recreate that atmosphere again, but I can forever keep this moment in my heart.

Has the ascent to Mount Ararat changed your life?

I don’t know. What kind of things should have changed? I still feel like myself.

What has Ararat become for you?

It has always been our Ararat, “my” Ararat …

Are you planning to complete the ascent to Ararat again?

I don’t know.

What would you advise to people who are dreaming of climbing Mount Ararat?

Plan your ascent to the top of Ararat only when you feel ready: physically, and most importantly, mentally…

Don’t hurt Ararat, and it will never hurt you.

 

Lilit Hovhannisyan 

Read more about Ararat ascent here.

Hiking and trekking tours in Armenia