When did you set a goal to climb Ararat?

It is difficult to set the goal when there is no one among your acquaintances who has completed an ascent to Mount Ararat. It is like something from another world. But everything changes when you believe in your dream and make friends who inspire you. You become ready to set a goal: to reach the top of Ararat.

What kind of obstacles did you face?

I had to overcome lack of confidence and boost my self-esteem.

How did you imagine the ascent to Ararat?

I thought everything would be more difficult.

And what was it like in reality?

The ascent turned out to be… leasier, more interesting and more meaningful than I expected. My friends and I talked a lot, shared different stories during the ascent, and this really united our group.

Kars

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

All my feelings were frozen because of the cold wind blowing at that moment, and my mind and heart were covered in ice. To get to the top as soon as possible is the only thing you care about during the ascent. But up there, neither frost nor wind can stop you from “becoming friends” with Ararat and “have a heart to heart talk” with it.

What one word would you use to describe your emotions on the top of Ararat?

Happy!

What was your most memorable moment?

There were a lot of events, so it’s difficult to single out just one. People were probably the most interesting. People who continue the ascent despite being tired, who support and encourage each other, cheerfully sing national songs, animatedly discuss something, and play games at a rest stop. All these amazing moments are captured in my memory like photographs in an album.

Has the ascent to Mount Ararat changed your life?

I thought about it on the way back and it didn’t seem very encouraging. You begin to understand how much your life has changed only after returning home, when you look at Ararat from this side. Then you feel nostalgia for Ararat, a desire to rise again to a height of 5165 meters.

Lake Van

What has Ararat become for you?

Ararat is a mountain you always look at. I used to admire Ararat and felt sad because it was so far away. Now I can’t help looking at Ararat because I am so glad we “know” each other.

Are you planning to complete the ascent to Ararat again?

Yes, but only if Ararat calls me again!

What advice would you give to those people for whom Ararat is still a dream?

Start thinking about the ascent to Ararat not as a dream, but as a goal. Believe me, if you change your approach, anything is possible. Be ready to answer the call of Ararat.

Lianna Arakelyan