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Sights of Armenia Gegharkunik
Azhdahak Mountain
- RegionGegharkunik
- Distance from Yerevan91.4 km
- TypeMountain
Gegharkunik
About this place
Mount Azhdahak is the highest peak in the Geghama Mountain Range, located in its central part. It is an extinct volcanic cone with a crater that is 50 meters deep and 500 meters in circumference, containing a lake formed by accumulated water, called Vishapalich (“Dragon Lake”).
The mountain stands at 3,597 meters above sea level. For most of the year, it is snow-covered, and its slopes are barren.
The name Azhdahak comes from Aži Dahāka, the evil dragon of Iranian mythology. “Aži” means viper, snake, or dragon, who was defeated by Trita/Traetaona, the god of thunder.
On the way up Mount Azhdahak, one can see petroglyphs and vishapakar (dragon stones) depicting various animals such as fish, mythical dragon-beasts, and more.
Interesting
facts about Azhdahak Mountain
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The Geghama mountains are rich in petroglyphs and vishapakar, dating as far back as the 4th–5th millennia BC.
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In Armenian folklore, the name Azhdahak is also known as the name of a Median king and a dragon.
Weather in Gegharkunik
The high season in Armenia lasts for a long time due to the pleasant climate conditions. Warm days in Armenia start in March and last until late autumn; winter is usually snowless and not long. The high precipitation season is variable. The tourist season for Azhdahak Mountain depends on the weather conditions.
Azhdahak Mountain
FAQ
What is Mount Azhdahak?
Mount Azhdahak is the highest peak of the Geghama Mountain Range, in its central part, rising to 3,597 meters above sea level. It is an extinct volcanic cone that is snow-covered for most of the year, with barren slopes.
What is in the crater of Mount Azhdahak?
The crater is 50 meters deep and 500 meters in circumference. Water has collected in it to form a lake called Vishapalich, or Dragon Lake.
Where does the name Azhdahak come from?
The name comes from Aži Dahāka, the evil dragon of Iranian mythology who was defeated by the thunder god Trita/Traetaona; aži means viper, snake or dragon. In Armenian folklore, Azhdahak is also known as the name of a Median king and a dragon.
What can you see on the way up Mount Azhdahak?
On the way up you can see petroglyphs and vishapakar (dragon stones) depicting animals such as fish and mythical dragon-beasts. The Geghama mountains are rich in petroglyphs and dragon stones dating as far back as the 4th–5th millennia BC.
Gegharkunik
Plan your visit
Address
Azhdahak Ltd., Гавар, Армения
Gegharkunik
Sights near Azhdahak Mountain
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