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Khor Virab

Ararat  >  Armenia

Khor Virap offers stunning views of Mount Ararat and a rich birdwatching experience, attracting species from nearby wetlands and migration routes.

Added* by Anna Yargina
Most recent update 6 јуни 2025

Description

Khor Virap is a unique birding site located in the Ararat valley, offering spectacular views of Mount Ararat and a mix of habitats such as wetlands, agricultural fields, and semi-desert. The nearby marshes and open landscapes attract a rich variety of birdlife year-round such as голема бела чапја, жолта чапја, мустаклеста сипка, штрк, Пупунец and пчеларка. Its scenic beauty, historical monastery, and bird diversity make the area a must-visit for birdwatchers.

Details

Access

Khor Virap is located in the Ararat Valley in southwestern Armenia, about 40 km south of Yerevan, near the Turkish border. You can get there by car in about 40–50 minutes from Yerevan. There’s a parking lot near the monastery, with free parking available for visitors. Press P on the map for directions.

Public transport is limited but possible: Bus 467 / Marshrutka 483 from Hayrenik stop to Lusarat. Buses 453, 459, 467 from Hayrenik stop to Artashat and then marshrutka 013 to Khor Virab.

The area is best explored on foot, especially around the monastery and nearby fields and wetlands, where many birds can be seen. Allow at least 2–3 hours for birdwatching, or more if you want to explore the monastery and surrounding landscapes at a relaxed pace.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Plain , Steppe , Reedbeds , Scattered trees and bushes

Conditions

Hilly

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring migration

Route

Unpaved road , Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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