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Dilijan

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Overview

Dilijan is a town with mild climate and fresh air to the northeast of Yerevan. It is famous for its lovely surroundings, called the "Armenian Switzerland" by the locals, due to the densely forested valleys and mountains

Wikivoyage guide · 21 sections

▸Introduction725 chars

Most visitors to Armenia spend all of their nights in Yerevan. Spending a night or two in Dilijan while exploring Tavush Marz region is well worth it. There are plentiful accommodations in Dilijan, from the luxury of the Tufenkian Hotel to much more basic hotels or homes. From Dilijan you can explore up to the Georgian border and the remote Shamshadin region much more easily than from Yerevan, and then continue on to Lori Marz.

▸Understand2,448 chars

The first settlements in this area were established around the end of the second millennium and beginning of first millennium BC. Some excavated collections of artifacts from that period are exhibited in the museums of Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Tbilisi, Baku and Yerevan, with the reminder kept in the Dilijan Geological Museum.

During the Medieval period this territory belonged to the Arsacid kings and was one of their favourite forest and a summer resorts used for hunting. A bit later, in the 13th century, Bujur Dili settlement was founded here. The monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank were built between the 10th and 13th centuries, quickly developed and have served as cultural and educational centers in the intervening centuries. Some other important religious and educational centers have also survived in Dilijan, such as the Jukhtak Vank Monastery and Matosavank Monastery.

Since the town came under Russian rule in 1801, the population has gradually grown. A school, library and several theaters were opened. In the second half of the 19th century Dilijan’s fame as of a resort center started to grow.

Facts

Rank

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Coordinates

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Source

WBP almanac

External sources

Wikivoyage Wikipedia

Media

From Wikipedia3,046 words

WBP editorial3

Seasonal rhythms for the active traveller

Dilijan’s mountainous setting creates a climate that swings between crisp, pine‑scented springs and snowy, muffled winters. Early May offers a burst of wildflower colour along the old town’s stone lanes, while the surrounding national park awakens for day‑long hikes without the summer crowds. By late September the temperature steadies, making it ideal for mountain‑bike loops that trace old forestry roads now peppered with mushroom‑foragers. Winter, though quieter, brings a quiet charm: the town’s spa facilities warm up against a backdrop of snow‑capped firs, and local cafés serve hot mulled tea that steams in the frosty air. Planning your visit around these seasonal moods lets you match activity level with atmosphere, rather than chasing the generic summer ‘high‑season’ rush.

A taste of local craft beyond the museum walls

While the central street’s galleries showcase polished works, the real workshop culture persists in the neighbourhoods beyond the pedestrian core. Small family‑run workshops still produce hand‑woven wool blankets using looms that have been in the same household for generations. Visitors can arrange a brief sit‑down with the weavers, who will demonstrate the rhythmic back‑and‑forth that turns raw fibre into the deep reds and earthy ochres typical of Tavush textiles. Similarly, a handful of itinerant copper smiths set up modest stalls on weekends, offering to etch simple motifs on copper plates for a modest fee. Engaging with these artisans provides insight into a living tradition that’s quietly woven into the town’s everyday rhythm.

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During Soviet years it was already widely known as a mountain climatic and balneological resort; there used to be 35 major sanatoriums hosting tens of thousands people yearly. It was popular among creative people, musicians and painters. However, all its fame faded away quite quickly after the collapse of Soviet Union, the number of tourists fell dramatically, and sanatoriums and all other tourist-oriented infrastructure went into a serious decline. The situation has started to improve. Tourists (mainly wealthy Armenians and some foreigners as well) have started coming back, giving a fresh breath to the town. New hotels and restaurants have started to appear again. There are still many signs of decline; there is a feel of abandonment and some provincial neglect (which is somehow inherent to the majority of Armenian towns). Nonetheless, pristine nature, calm and relaxed atmosphere and ancient monasteries are still the main points of interest and the main reasons to visit the town.

▸See4,589 chars

1 Old Dilijan historic complex, Sharambeyan str.. A little cobbled street with the traditional buildings. Created in 1979 by artist Hovhannes Sharambeyan. The aim of the historic center was to present the history of Dilijan, its lifestyle, and the interest of the people who live there. Here instead of the previously established workshops and houses, 16 studios were opened where you could see items used in everyday life as well as handmade works of Dilijan craftsmen and artists. In 2005 the territory was leased by American-Armenian businessman James Tufenkian, who has already had a list of hotel complexes named “Tufenkian Hospitality” Ltd.

Historic museum, Sharambeyan str. (part of "Old Dilijan" historic center, entrance is next door to Tufenkian restaurant). In a 19th century house decorated with furniture, carpets and crockery of that time. 3,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

2 The Geological Museum and Art Gallery of Dilijan, 28 Miasnikyan str, ☏ +374 26824450, dilijanmuseum@gmail.com. Tu-Su 10:00-18:00; during summer till 21:00. Here are some excerpts from the "Page Info" page of this small museum's Facebook site: "The Geological Museum and Art Gallery of Dilijan which was founded in 1950... provides a comprehensive view of the history of the Dilijan Region, the historical development of the local people, their way of life, material culture monuments, historical and geographical conditions." "[The land of Dilijan was so rich in archeological relics] that it... was able to provide museums of the... city with [items that are] more than 3,000 years old.... The rare pictures stored here also make the Geological Museum of Dilijan a treasury." It contains works by Armenian and Russian painters, "Dutch, Italian and French painters of the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries", etc. Following your guided tour of the museum, you can participate in a hands-on workshop The Art of Printmaking which will help you discover and differentiate among the artistic processes and practices of printmaking. The workshop will also teach you the specialized technique of transferring images from a matrix (e.g., a metal plate, block of wood, stone, linoleum) onto another surface, such as paper or fabric. All necessary materials and equipment are provided to create your own print based on already-incised images on different matrices. At the end of the workshop, you will be able to take home your new artwork. (updated Jul 2023)

3 Jukhtak Vank Monastery (on the edge of Dilijan, a 10-minute hike from the Dilijan Mineral Water plant). A nice little an 11th– or 12th-century monastery. Huge iron bands hold one of the two churches together, preventing its collapse.

4 Matosavank Monastery (a 25-minute hike from the Dilijan Mineral Water plant: Follow the marked trail from the water bottlers). A 13th-century small Armenian monastery, hidden in a forested area 3 km northwest from the town. It sits in close proximity to the monastery of Jukhtak Vank as well as to a nearby cemetery. The church is in ruin and it is easy to miss, and not terribly interesting from the outside, but the inside is a cool, moist, green, mossy world unto itself. The low light illuminating bright green algae-covered khachkars is very soothing, and the environment transports you far from your daily life. (updated Jul 2023)

5 Museum of Folk Art after V. Sharambeyan, 1 Getapnya str., ☏ +374 91703047. Tu-Sa 11:00-18:00, Su 11:00-16:00. The building used for this museum was built at the end of the 19th century and served as a summer house of Princess Mariam Tumanyan. Works of contemporary folk masters and self-taught artists are collected here, as are significant ethnographic exhibits. 300 dram.

6 Rundown theme park. Remains of a Soviet-era theme park. Consists of a few lanes with trees and rundown roller coasters. There have been some rumors that it will be renovated by the owners of United World College Dilijan and turned into a local Disneyland, but no exact dates are given for when this would be done. (updated Jun 2015)

7 Ecokayan Ponds, 50 Hovq st, ☏ +374 99 315101, info@ecokayan.com. 24/7. Set in a beautiful valley formed by the Kayenajur rivulet, a left tributary of Argstev river. Very charming landmark for the nature lovers, hikers and peoples to escape from the hustle–and–bustle of the cities. You may go horseback riding and fishing in the ponds, shoot an arrow in the archery, rent a summer house or even book a room in the nearby Ecokayan Dilijan hotel. You may enjoy Dilijan traditional food at the nearby Riverbend Dilijan restaurant - night club. 0. (updated Mar 2023)

▸Nearby3,445 chars

8 Aghavnavank Monastery, on the outskirts of Aghavnavank village, in Dilijan National Park. 12th-13th century monastic complex. The church is a small structure with the dome in the center and its depositories. It is built with yellowish polished stone. Hood of the dome and roof were covered with polished slabs, but only few of which preserved. Shaped stones of cornice fell down. There are also numerous constructions remained to the south of monument, which most probably constituted logistical and residential premises of the church congregation. (updated Jul 2023)

9 Goshavank Monastery (22 km east of Dilijan: 16 km following the main Dilijan-Ijevan highway and then 6 km off this road after the turning to the monastery.). Goshavank monastery is surrounded by a traditional village. There is a groundskeeper who opens the main church building up for visitors and can give a tour. This is the one church in all of Armenia where entrance to one of the chambers is not free. The chamber is nice, but you can certainly enjoy the rest of the complex without it, especially since it may not be offered in English. There are excellent carved details and khachkars here, but the "lacework" khachkar at Goshavank is one of the most impressive in the world.

10 Haghartsin Monastery (13 km from town: 8 km following the main Dilijan-Ijevan highway and then 5 km off this road after the turning to the monastery. There is also a walk from Haghartsin Monastery to Goshavank one: the trail is not marked, takes 3 hr, 10 km). One of Armenia's most popular monasteries, Haghartsin is nestled in lush forested mountains about a half hour drive from Dilijan. The monastery is in good condition and has a resident priest who sometimes gives tours. There are a few different churches, a large gavit, a huge dining hall, khachkars and a massive hollow tree. A slightly sweet bread is often being baked in an old oven.

11 Lake Parz (Parz lich), on the 9th km north-east from Dilijan, in the north-west of Areguni Mountain Chain, on a marvelously forested slope. This clear lake is a dream, a miraculous vision. As poet Gevorg Emin says: “Go to Lake Parz, I urge you to go. One last time I tell you to go as long as the magic is there.” The lake's altitude is 1,350 m, length – 300 m, width – 70-80 m. Water temperature reaches 15.5°C at summertime. There is a restaurant overlooking the lake. (updated Jul 2023)

12 Lake Tzrka, 7 km from the village of Gosh. A long time ago, leeches were bred here for traditional and non-traditional medicines. There are no longer leeches now, but the lake is called Tzrka by their name. It is better to travel by foot rather than by car to enjoy the beautiful wildlife surrounding the lake.

13 Mantash Fortress (Ashot Yerkat Fortress, Mantashberd) (on top of a steep mountain, on the right bank of Aghstev River, about 25 km north-east from Dilijan). It was built under the Arab rule and was one of Armenia's invulnerable fortresses. Ruins of the fortress has two entrances, the doors of which were made of large stones. The passable parts of the mountain are fortified with walls that have pyramid-shaped towers on top. (updated Jul 2023)

14 Molokan Villages, Lermontovo and Fioletovo villages. If you take the highway toward Vanadzor, a few of the villages you pass will be those of the Molokans. A Russian old believer sect, much like the Amish in Pennsylvania, they grow beards and shun technology. (updated Jun 2015)

▸Do2,001 chars

Ceramic course – Some of the wood and ceramic makers shops at Sharambeian Street ("Old Dilijan" historic center) are ready to organize classes for a moderate price, in which participants are encouraged to create a souvenir for themselves.

1 Copper jewelry and batik, 34 Myasnikyan Street, Dilijan, Tavush region, ☏ +374 96270482, buduart@mail.ru. Classes are available 7 days a week, from 10:00 to 22:00. Reservations must be made 24 hours in advance.. Organised by Buduart Studio. As painters and jewelry makers, Arman Badeyan and Margarita Malkhasyan the couple founded Buduart studio, a gallery which combines a space for guests to explore their creative side. At the Buduart workshop and gallery, artists, art lovers and craft enthusiasts may gather to make jewelry or paint batik in a relaxing friendly environment under Arman and Margarita’s guidance. (updated Aug 2021)

Sewing history and culture, ☏ +374 60651500, +374 77772505, armenecoop@gmail.com. Classes are available 7 days a week, from 11:00 to 18:00. Reservations must be made 1 day in advance.. The Youth Cooperation Center of Dilijan is a non-governmental organization dedicated to increasing the civic participation of young people for community development. One of its other projects is ARMENECOOP, which provides training in leadership, entrepreneurship, sewing, and pottery for unemployed women from the Dilijan area. ARMENECOOP also offers a sewing class in Dilijan where visitors may learn about the history of sewing and make a roll-up pencil case or a tote-bag decorated with Dilijan’s distinctive motifs. (updated Aug 2021)

Tufenkian hotel organises various courses and tours:

Horseback riding – Some of the hotels (e.g. Getap and Tufenkian Hotels) offer tours in the area (1½–6 hr) and lessons for the beginners.

Cooking class – Learn how to prepare some of Armenian dishes or Armenian Khorovats/BBQ (1½ hr, 3-10 participants). Classes must be scheduled two to three days in advance.

Horse sleigh ride – Snow season only.

▸Dilijan National Park3,130 chars

15 Dilijan National Park, ☏ +374 268 2-70-32, +374 268 2-71-71. This park surrounds Dilijan town. Most popular activities in the area are here, i.e. hiking, because the town is compact and the surrounding countryside is beautiful and best experienced at low speeds. Some trails can also be done by bicycle—inquire at the national park HQ. It has marked trails and you can discover some lesser-known monasteries, a lake, forests, springs and wildlife. Though, it can sometimes be a "hassle" to pay the entrance, as there is usually no-one on the route who can accept the payment—it may be necessary to pay in the tourist office or the national park HQ. 500 dram.

The national park has the following 12 eco trails (PDFs) offering both natural and cultural attractions:

Aghavnavank Village – Redwood Grove. An easy hike suitable for a family. From tourist information center take the road north to Ijevan, after 16 km turn right (there will be a sign for Gosh & Chambarak). Drive another 11 km. Then after a bridge there will be green sign marking the trail beginning. (updated Jul 2023)

Dilijan – Ayridash area/Astkhakar Peak. From tourist information center drive 2.5 km along the road towards Vanadzor. Turn left to Shamakhyan village. At the highest point in the village there will see a green sign indicating the beginning of the trail. (updated Jul 2023)

Dilijan – Dilijan Mountains loop. This circuitous trail bringing visitors to the one of the highest peaks in the area. (updated Jul 2023)

Dilijan – Matosavank and Jukhtak Monasteries. A 60-120 min hike. From tourist information center take the road to Vanadzor, after 3 km turn right (there will be brown road signs for Matosavank and Jukhtak Monasteries). Travel down the dirt road for 3 km, after that Matosavank will be on the left and Jukhtak on the right. (updated Jul 2023)

Dilijan – Natural mineral spring Ttu Jur – Parz Lich Lake. Take the right fork 200 m after the town square—this is the beginning of the trail. (updated Jul 2023)

Dilijan National Park Office – Waterfall. National park office is 500 m away from tourist information center following the road north to Ijevan. (updated Jul 2023)

Goshavank – Gosh Lake. A short walk down from Goshavank Monastery there is a small Gosh Lich (Lake). It has a nice picnic area there. (updated Jul 2023)

Haghartsin Monastery – Shamakhyan Village. From tourist information center take the road north to Ijevan, after 8 km turn left ( there will be a sign for Haghartsin Monastery). Follow it for another 6 km. The beginning of the trail is 100 meters before the road ends (near the chapel with khatchkars). (updated Jul 2023)

Haghartsin Village – Abeghakar Peak. From tourist information center drive 10 km along the road north to Ijevan. Once passing Haghartsin village there is a small picnic area and ascending dirt road with a green sign marking the beginning of the trail. (updated Jul 2023)

Parz Lake – Goshavank Monastery. A 3-hr hike. There is a sign near a lake marking beginning of the trail. (updated Jul 2023)

A good summary of the surrounding area and the national park can also be found here.

▸Buy784 chars

Crafts on Sharambeyan Street around "Old Dilijan" historic complex. This street has some little shops where artisans are busy hand making their craft. Prices start from 500 dram.

Visit Revik to see his wood working studio, with some great traditional designs for everything from Christmas tree decorations to cribs. The tourist information office has additional information on local crafts purchases and local painters you can visit.

Grocery stores are mainly located on a square near the bus station and the 3 town's main square (1 km E of "Old Dilijan" historic complex).

There are a few bank branches where currency can be changed. Also about 5-7 ATMs are scattered around town and, similar to grocery stores, it's easier to find them near bus station and the town's main square.

▸Eat and drink2,234 chars

In Dilijan, drinking is done wherever people eat, not at dedicated bars. It usually entails vodka, though beer and wine are not uncommon.

1 Cafe Dili (50 m of bus station). Inexpensive small family restaurant with 6 tables serving Armenian food and some other fast food options. Owners assure they use only local organic ingredients for cooking and indeed it tastes really good. Portions are of decent size. WiFi. No alcohol except beer. There is adjacent bakery cooking nice cakes and cookies, which can be taken away or eaten in the cafe. Mains 500-2,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

2 Bar & Grill "Flying Ostrich" by Dolmama, 6 Sayat Nova str., ☏ +374 60 655080. Fancy bar & restaurant with nicely decorated interior. Live music played at some of the evenings. (updated Jun 2015)

3 Restaurant Mimino, the building of bus station, Maksim Gorki str., ☏ +374 98 08 24 40. Quite cheap restaurant with exceptional Georgian cuisine. Big portions. Khingali dumplings are 2 or 3 to the US dollar... and they are not small. Decorated in a theme of old Soviet movie "Mimino". There is an outside take away grill place preparing bratwurst sausages. (updated Jun 2015)

4 Cafe #2 (near the central traffic circle overlooking the central lake), ☏ +374 60 700805. 09:00-22:00. A large, modern cafe overlooking a lake, with food options, free wifi, and space to work. US$1 to 10. (updated Aug 2017)

5 Kchuch, 37 Myasnikyan St. (by the top of the stairs near old town.), ☏ +374 41 886010. Fantastic Armenian cuisine for a great price. Almost everything is slow cooked in ceramic kchuch in a traditional way. US$8. (updated Jan 2018)

6 Shawerma (Just below the bus station). A modern shawerma fast-food joint, with rotisserie meat served in a pita or lavash sandwich. Cheap and fast food. US$3. (updated Jun 2015)

7 Tufenkian Restaurant (Haykanoush Restaurant), Sharambeyan Street. Restaurant with rustic modern Tufenkian furniture and upscale Armenian menus and prices. Although it looks fancy, the food isn't particularly good. There is also a traditional bakery on the first floor of the restaurant facing the promenade street; however, it seems to work only during high tourist season (i.e. summer months). Mains from 2,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

▸Along Yerevan-Ijevan highway1,407 chars

To get into any of the following restaurants you'll need a car or a taxi. Although they seem to be worth it.

8 Getap Restaurant and hotel complex, Tblisyan St. (5th north of Dilijan, along the river), ☏ +374 99 888-334. Great traditional wooden eating booths outdoors, some of them over the river serve as the perfect setting for fresh fish, meat or vegetable barbecues. There is also children's playground, table tennis. Wi-Fi. About 3,000 dram per person. Housing: one room flat 15,000 dram, two room flat 20,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

9 Haghartsin restaurant-hotel-bar complex, Kamo street, 121 (the first building at the entrance of Dilijan town, to the right on the way from Yerevan, just after the last turn from the tunnel), ☏ +374 268 2 777 0, +374 77 636565 (mobile). round-the-clock. It's a pleasant and quiet place near the road from Yerevan to Ijevan with large car parking. It's possible to taste national cuisine in a modern restaurant hall or cozy gazebos among trees. US$10-20. (updated Jun 2015)

10 Haleb Restaurant, 38/2 Tbilisyan Highway, ☏ +374 41 722270. 10:00–00:00. Syrian-Armenian cuisine, friendly staff. Restaurant consists of a detached private houses-cabins. Good reviews. (updated Jun 2015)

11 Kessab Restaurant, 97 Tbilisyan Str. (on a highway leading to Ijevan, about 3km from the centre), ☏ +374 94822882. Western Armenian/mid-eastern food. Good view. (updated Jun 2015)

▸Budget2,044 chars

1 Dghyak Pansion, 50 Sayat-Nova st. (in close proximity to the Dilijan-Ijevan highway and the forest), ☏ +374 26823003, +374 93416811 (German), +374 93187518 (English), dghyak.dilijan@gamil.com. Check-in: noon, check-out: noon. Dghyak Pansion was constructed in 2010. Bedrooms are on the first and second floor, which also has a large conference room. There are 21 comfortable rooms (Junior, Standard, Superior, Family, Deluxe and Lux). One room has two furnished bedrooms. Amenities: 21 rooms, bathroom, satellite, billiard/tennis, conference hall, garden, hot/cold water, swimming pool. Double 18,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

2 Diligence Hotel, 69a Sajat-Nova Str., ☏ +374 94 407761. Nice proper mid-range hotel with very reasonable price policy which makes it to place it in a budget section. Spacious rooms with brand new furniture. Hotel is surrounded by a forest. Friendly staff. However, weak WiFi inside rooms. Double 18,000-20,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

Dilijan National Park. The National Park's information center provides a broad range of tents for camping, and also rents bikes (1,000 dram/hr or 5,000 dram/day) and small gas cookers. 2,000-4,000 dram per day, plus 2,000 dram/day for sleeping bag. (updated Apr 2016)

3 Nina B&B, 18 Myasnikyan st, ☏ +374 91 767734. Pretty simple rooms in a typical guesthouse. Some rooms are in the house where host lives, but a few others are in a small detached cottage. Near the town's center. Wi-Fi. She offers good dinner for a reasonable price. Double 16,000 dram with shared bathroom, 22,000 dram - en suite. (updated Jun 2015)

4 Petit Dilijan B&B, 22 Sharambeyan st., ☏ +374 55 19-28-82, +374 77 19-28-82, info@petitdilijan.am. A very comfortable, clean little B&B. It feels like a real homestay option, while being very professional and thorough. The owner speaks very good English. There is also an option of having breakfast and dinner prepared, which is very recommendable. Double 5,000 dram per person. Lunch 2,000 dram per person, dinner 3,000 dram per person. (updated Jun 2015)

▸Mid-range2,585 chars

5 Casanova Inn, 63 Hovsepian st., ☏ +374 41 414400. Inn consists of two 3-storey houses and features a sauna, indoor pool, snack bar, free Wi-Fi. Good and warm reviews on a booking sites. It can get noisy due to the cars passing the nearby road. Double 20,000-30,000 dram. Sauna – 10,000 dram for 1 hour. (updated Jun 2015)

6 Daravand Hotel, 46 Abovyan St. (heading up Abovyan Street, pass under the bridge, on your right, on a short dirt driveway with two sharp turns), ☏ +374 2680 7857, +374 94 420965. Guesthouse was opened by an Armenian carpenter on the scenic road to Jukhtak Monastery. Built in a quiet canyon, the guesthouse is very comfortable and cozy. Seven guest rooms are available. A library and games room and billiard room are available for gaming. Open air dining area is also available, overlooking the beautiful valley. The bar, living room and nice garden provide areas for guests to congregate and relax. The owner Razmik is very accommodating, helpful and speaks decent English. 22,000 dram en suite, or 16,000 dram with shared bathroom. (updated Jun 2015)

7 Dili Villa Guesthouse, 12a Myasnikyan st., ☏ +374 268 27059, +374 91 456164. It is a three-storey house with a winter garden, charming loggia with a fireplace, studio and a nice balcony with the breathtaking view of mountains. Dili Villa offers dinner/lunch service, a free pick up service in Dilijan, as well as sightseeing tours by 4x4 SUV. The guesthouse has a Sat TV and Wi-Fi internet. Capacity for overnight stay: up to 13 people and for the meal: up to 30 people. Cottage for 2 people 18,000 dram, double 26,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

8 Haghartsin restaurant-hotel-bar complex, 121 Kamo st. (far from the center, about 1,000 dram by taxi, one of the last buildings on the road towards Yerevan), ☏ +374 268 2 7770, +374 77 636565, fax: +374 268 2 7770, info@haghartsin.com. It's a pleasant and quiet place near the road from Yerevan to Ijevan, with large guarded car and bus parking. There are 21 comfortable rooms(DBL/TWN/TRPL), 10 comfortable cottages and 10 motel rooms with SPA and Sat TV in the hotel, a conference hall with large plasma screen, heated swimming pool, fitness hall, children's room and playgrounds, billiards (snooker and Russian), Finnish and Russian sauna and bar. The hotel's atmosphere is something of a woodsy mountain retreat. Also here you can taste national cuisine in a modern restaurant hall, wedding hall, banquet room, open-air summer cafe or cozy gazebos among trees. Double 25,000 dram, triple 30,000 dram. Full board 7,000 dram per person. (updated Jun 2015)

▸Splurge1,285 chars

9 Best Western Paradise Hotel Dilijan, 156 Kamo Str, ☏ +374 268 24016. 4-star hotel built in 2011. Far away from the center. Restaurant serves only European cuisine. This is the place where most of European package tourists stay. All rooms are quite big and have balconies. Overall, good value for the money. Double from 25,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

10 Takht House, 14, 3rd alley, Ordjonikidze st., ☏ +374 91417537, +374 91416620. A two-storied rural old mansion that was reconstructed and now is rented to tourists. It has 4 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 8 people. 63,000 dram for the entire house. (updated Jun 2015)

11 Tufenkian Hotel (Ananov guest house), Sharambeyan Street (top of the street, on the left), ☏ +374 10 65 58 77. Part of the high end Tufenkian chain of hotels; good location. Located in renovated 19th century-style Ananov Guest House. Double 42,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

12 Villarest Cottage Complex, 20 Parz Lich St., ☏ +374-98-444409. Premium hotel consisting of a group of cottages in a mountainous environment a few kilometers away from Dilijan on the way to Parz lich lake. Hotel has a garden, children’s playground, ski storage, free WiFi, restaurant serving Armenian and European cuisine. Double 36,000 dram, suite 50,000 dram. (updated Jun 2015)

▸Go next845 chars

Debed Canyon – the famous canyon with several beautiful monasteries in the vicinity of it, including UNESCO World Heritage Sanahin Monastery and Haghpat Monastery

Ijevan – Attractive town 25 min north with a river running through it, and with the beautiful canyon full of cascades and with some caves by the nearby Yenokavan village, and nearby Makaravank Monastery.

Noyemberyan – A small town near the border with Georgia, featuring 2 small nearby monasteries

Berd – If you'd rather go to the remote and beautiful Shamshadin area, Berd is the only town in that region and therefore a good base for further exploration

Vanadzor – Armenia's 3rd-largest city, featuring Soviet industrial architecture, although it also has a few nice churches

Yerevan – If you didn't come from the vibrant capital of Armenia, it's the most logical place to go next

Introduction

Place in Tavush, ArmeniaDilijan Դիլիջան FlagSealDilijanShow map of ArmeniaDilijanShow map of TavushCoordinates: 40°44′27″N 44°51′47″E / 40.74083°N 44.86306°E / 40.74083; 44.86306Country ArmeniaProvinceTavushMunicipalityDilijanGovernment • MayorArmen SantrosyanArea • Total13 km2 (5.0 sq mi)Elevation1,500 m (4,900 ft)Population (2022) • Total15,914 • Density1,200/km2 (3,200/sq mi)Time zoneUTC+4 (AMT)WebsiteOfficial website, www.dilijan.amDilijan at GEOnet Names Server Dilijan (Armenian: Դիլիջան) is a spa town and urban municipal community in the Dilijan Municipality of the Tavush Province of Armenia. The town is one of the most important resorts in Armenia, situated within the Dilijan National Park. The forested town is home to numerous Armenian artists, composers, and filmmakers and features some traditional Armenian architecture. Sharambeyan Street in the city centre, has been preserved and maintained as the heart of Dilijan's old town, complete with craftsman's workshops, a gallery and a museum. Hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking are popular recreational activities. As of the 2011 census, Dilijan has a population of 17,712. Dilijan is currently the fastest-growing urban settlement in Armenia. As of the 2022 census, Dilijan has a population of 15,914.

History

[edit] Early history and Middle Ages[edit] Dilijan's historic Sharambeyan Street, which was recently renovated through the efforts of the Tufenkian Foundation of Cultural Heritage. Historically, the area of modern-day Dilijan -known as Hovk'- was part of the Varazhnunik canton of Ayrarat; the 15th province of the historic Greater Armenia. During excavations conducted in the 1870s, many valuable items were found, dating back to the late Bronze and the early Iron ages (between the end of 2000 BC and the beginning of 1000). Some of the excavated collections were transferred to the museums of Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Tbilisi, Baku and Yerevan, while the remainder was kept in the Dilijan Geological Museum. During the medieval era, the territory of Dilijan was known as Hovk'. Hovk' was a favourite forest and a summering place for the Arsacid kings to display their abilities in hunting. The settlement of Bujur Dili was founded during the 13th century near the area of modern-day Dilijan. The monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank were built between the 10th and 13th centuries. The monastery complexes have quickly developed and have served as cultural and educational centers. Haghartsin is one of the iconic examples of the developing Armenian architecture during the Middle Ages. Many other important religious and educational centers of the Middle Ages have survived in Dilijan, such as the Jukhtak Vank Monastery and Matosavank Monastery. Modern History[edit] Traditional 19th-century house in Dilijan In 1501-02, most of the Eastern Armenian territories including the territories of modern-day Tavush, were swiftly conquered by the emerging Safavid dynasty of Iran led by Shah Ismail I. In 1666, the name Dilijan was mentioned for the first time in the notes of the French traveler Jean Chardin. The territories of present-day Lori and Tavush along with the neighboring Georgia, became part of the Russian Empire in 1800-01. The territories became an official region of Russia as per the Treaty of Gulistan signed between Imperial Russia and Qajar Persia in October 1813, following the Russo-Persian War of 1804–13. Since the town became under the Russian rule in 1801, the population of Dilijan had gradually grown. In 1868 the first public education school was opened in Dilijan. Auspicious conditions for cultural development have appeared at the end of the 19th and in the beginning of the 20th centuries. Many theatre groups were organized during the 1890s and the first library of the town was opened in 1908. Dilijan's town hall in the city's central square. In the second half of the 19th century, Dilijan became a well-known mountain resort the town began to grow gradually. By the end of the 19th century, many entertaining centres were opened in the town, and the famous open-air theatre, known as Rotunda, was built in 1900. The theatre became a favorite place for locals and the visiting Russian intellectuals. At that period, many modern houses were constructed in a unique traditional architectural style. Many wealthy Armenians from Tiflis and other areas of Transcaucasia began to build their own villas in Dilijan. The architecture in Dilijan has been characterized with gable tiled roof, wide patterned oriel and whitewashed walls. The style has quickly been spread all over the villages at the Aghstev river valley. At the beginning of the 20th century, many traditional crafts have been developed in Dilijan including metalsmith, carpet weaving, fine arts, wood engraving and other types of folk crafts. During the Battle of Karakilisa in May 1918, Dilijan was the main staging point of the Armenian forces under the command of General Tovmas Nazarbekian. Following the brief independence of Armenia in 1918-20, Dilijan became part of the newly founded Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1930, it was part of the newly formed Ijevan rayon, until 1958 when Dilijan became a town of republican subordination. Following the independence of Armenia in 1991, Dilijan became part of the newly formed Tavush Province as per the 1995 administrative reforms. Nowadays, in addition to being one of the most prominent mountain resorts in Armenia, Dilijan is planned to be an international educational centre for both locals and foreigners, through the establishment of many developed schools and educational institutions.

Geography

[edit] Dilijan National Park Dilijan's forest. Lake Parz Dilijan lies on the banks of Aghstev River with a length of more than 20 kilometres (12 miles) and at a height of 1,500 metres (4,921 feet) above sea level. The valley is surrounded with the Lesser Caucasus mountains from the north, and the Semyonovka mountain pass from the south. The mountainous areas -mainly the ranges of Bazum and Pambak mountains- are all covered with thick forests occupying a territory of more than 34,000 hectares (84,016 acres). Reaching up the highest peaks of the mountains, the forests turn into Alpine meadows. In addition to Aghstev River, many other tributaries flow through the town. Dilijan National Park[edit] The forests of Dilijan cover an area of more than 34,000 hectares. For the enrichment of the natural life around Dilijan, the state forest reserve was founded in 1958 to become known as Dilijan National Park later in 2002. Woods cover 94% of the park territory and with around 40 types of trees and 18 types of bushes, being mostly oaks, beeches, hornbeams, maples, elms, willows, etc. The national park is also rich in its fauna, including brown bear, wolf, marten, otter, lynx, sylvan cat, Persian squirrel, sylvan dormouse, hedgehog, chamois, European red deer, wild hog, pheasant, quail, partridge, Caspian turkey, culver, white-tailed eagle, lammergeyer, pygmy eagles, golden eagle, hawk and others. Lake Parz is one of Dilijan's most attractive natural landmarks. It is situated in the northern part of the town at a height of 1,400 metres (4,593 feet) above sea level. It has an area of 2 hectares (5 acres) and an average depth of 8 metres (26 feet). To the east of the Lake Parz, at a distance of 3 kilometres (2 miles) from Gosh village, Lake Tzlka is located at a height of 1,500 metres (4,921 feet). Aghstev River with its tributaries passes through the town and the surrounding forest. Its origins are from the northwestern part of the Pambak mountain range, at a height of 2,980 metres (9,777 feet). Aghstev River has a length of 133 kilometres (83 miles). Many tributaries flow into Aghstev such as Bldsan, Ghshtoghan, Haghartsin and Getik rivers. Climate[edit] The climate in Dilijan is classified as warm summer humid continental climate (Köppen Dfb) with cool weather during the summer and cold with snowfalls in winter. With its montane climate, Dilijan is a town-resort with favorable oxygen regimen, unique landscape features and curative mineral water. Climate data for Dilijan (1991-2020) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 17.1(62.8) 19.1(66.4) 25.3(77.5) 30.0(86.0) 31.2(88.2) 34.0(93.2) 35.5(95.9) 37.3(99.1) 33.0(91.4) 31.4(88.5) 23.9(75.0) 21.8(71.2) 37.3(99.1) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 4.2(39.6) 5.0(41.0) 8.2(46.8) 14.5(58.1) 18.9(66.0) 21.6(70.9) 24.4(75.9) 24.3(75.7) 20.8(69.4) 16.4(61.5) 10.7(51.3) 6.3(43.3) 14.6(58.3) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −6.2(20.8) −5.5(22.1) −2.9(26.8) 2.3(36.1) 6.5(43.7) 9.3(48.7) 12.7(54.9) 12.3(54.1) 9.0(48.2) 3.9(39.0) 0.0(32.0) −3.9(25.0) 3.1(37.6) Record low °C (°F) −20.2(−4.4) −21.6(−6.9) −14.7(5.5) −11.8(10.8) −1.5(29.3) 1.3(34.3) 4.6(40.3) 4.0(39.2) −0.8(30.6) −4.7(23.5) −14.2(6.4) −18.5(−1.3) −21.6(−6.9) Average precipitation mm (inches) 21.4(0.84) 28.0(1.10) 48.5(1.91) 74.3(2.93) 102.4(4.03) 95.3(3.75) 75.1(2.96) 51.8(2.04) 45.6(1.80) 48.6(1.91) 33.2(1.31) 22.5(0.89) 646.7(25.47) Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm) 4.6 5.1 7.8 11.5 15.8 12.6 8.5 7.4 6.6 7.9 5.4 4.2 97.4 Average relative humidity (%) 68 66.8 68 73.2 77.8 77.5 76.2 74.6 77.9 79.1 73.4 68.2 73.4 Mean monthly sunshine hours 118.3 128.7 141.8 135.9 163.8 206.4 198.7 194.3 185.2 141.6 125.9 115.9 1,856.5 Source: World Meteorological Organization(Temperature Normals),NOAA

Demographics

[edit] Downtown Dilijan in autumn 2015 The majority of the population in Dilijan are ethnic Armenians who belong to the Armenian Apostolic Church, under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Tavush based in Ijevan. There is also a small community of Russians who are spiritual Christians known as Molokans. As of the 2011 census, Dilijan has a population of 17,712, down from 23,700 reported in the 1989 census. Currently, the town has an approximate population of 16,600 as per the 2016 official estimate. As of the 2022 census, Dilijan has a population of 15,914. Historical populationYearPop.±% p.a.197624,056—    198930,433+1.83%200116,201−5.12%201117,712+0.90%202215,914−0.97%Source: Dilijan does not a have a church building, and the church services are conducted at a building within the Tufenkian Old Dilijan complex. The town's monumental church is currently under construction since April 2016.

Culture

[edit] Architectural findings from Dilijan. Dilijan has a rich historical and cultural heritage. During the nearby excavations in the prehistoric cemeteries of Golovino and Papanino, bronze items of almost three thousand years old were found, including armours, daggers, pitchers, ear-rings and others were found. All those items could be found either in the Dilijan museum or in the Hermitage Museum. In 1932 the State Theatre was founded in Dilijan under the supervision of the honored USSR artist Hovhannes Sharambeyan, while the school of music was founded in 1946. On 26 January 2013, the American University of Armenia and the Central Bank of Armenia inaugurated a new state-of-the-art library at the Knowledge for Development Center in Dilijan. On the same day, the Dilijan branch of Tumo Center for Creative Technologies was also opened in the development center. Monuments[edit] The Dilijan Museum of Popular Art. Dilijan Museum of Popular Art: formerly a residential house dating back to the second half of the 19th century, converted into a traditional art museum in 1979. The open-air theatre, also known as the Rotunda: built in 1900, it is located at the centre of the town. Many prominent artist performed in the theatre including H. Abelian, Vahram Papazian, A. Hrachian and others. Dilijan Museum of Geology: opened in 1952, it is located at the centre of the town. Memorial to Soviet Armenia: built in 1970 by the artists A. Tarkhanyan, S. Avetisyan, K. Vatinyan, symbolizing the 50th anniversary of the Sovietization of Armenia. Five edges of the monument symbolize each decade of the 50 years. Memorial to World War II: built near central park in 1975 by K. Vatinyan and S. Mehrabyan to commemorate the local martyrs during World War II. Nearby attractions[edit] Haghartsin Monastery The remains of Jukhtak Vank Monastery Lesser Caucasus mountains Haghartsin Monastery: one of Armenia's most popular monasteries, Haghartsin is nestled in lush forested mountains about a half-hour drive from Dilijan. The monastery is in good condition and has a resident priest who sometimes gives tours. There are a few different churches, a large gavit, a huge dining hall, khachkars and a massive hollow tree. A slightly sweet bread is often being baked in an old oven. Goshavank Monastery: located to the north of the town, surrounded with a traditional village, and has a groundskeeper who opens the main church building up for visitors, and can give a tour. This is the one church in all of Armenia where entrance to one of the chambers is not free. The chamber is nice, but you can certainly enjoy the rest of the complex without it, especially since it may not be offered in English. There are carved details and khachkars here, but the "lacework" khachkar at Goshavank is one of the most impressive in the world. Jukhtak Vank Monastery: small 12th century monastery located just at the edge of Dilijan, only at a 10-minute hike from the Dilijan Mineral Water plant. Huge iron bands hold one of the two churches together, preventing its It has two separate churches, Surp Astvatsatsin and Surp Grigor with their surrounding cemeteries. Matosavank Monastery: located in the forest opposite to Jukhtak Monastery. It is easy to miss, and not terribly interesting from the outside, but the inside is a cool, moist, green, mossy world unto itself. The low light illuminating bright green algae covered khachkars is very soothing, and the environment transports you far from your daily life. Dilijan National Park: or the Dilijan Reserve, occupying 24,000 hectares, is well known for its forest landscapes, rich biodiversity, medicinal mineral water springs, natural and cultural monuments. Other historic monasteries: Saint Gregory of the 10th century, Saint Stepanos and Saint Astvatsatsin of to the 13th century with a number of khachkars in the complex.

Economy

[edit] Central Bank of Armenia's Educational Center in Dilijan Industry[edit] Dilijan is famous for its mineral water, being processed and bottled by the "Dilijan Mineral Water Plant" founded in 1947. The town is also home to the "Aramara" company for fine woodworking founded in 1993, and the "Dili" factory for dairy products founded in 2005. Dilijan is also famous for its hand-made rugs and carpets. The town has its own style of carpet design, with many samples shown at the Dilijan museum of traditional art. The famous Impuls factory of Dilijan for communication systems was opened in 1962 by the Soviets. However it was abandoned in the 1990s, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The Armenian government has announced plans to turn Dilijan into a regional financial capital, beginning with the move of much of the Central Bank's operations to Dilijan in 2013. Tourism[edit] Traditional cottages In 2009, it was announced by the Armenian government that Dilijan will turn into a developed financial centre for Armenia and the region. According to government officials, many of the operations and responsibilities of the Central Bank of Armenia will move the northern town-resort of Dilijan, starting from 2013. A sanatorium in Dilijan Currently, many significant financial and cultural institutions are operating in the town such as the Dilijan regional financial and banking centre, the United World College Dilijan, the Old Dilijan-Tufenkian Centre, the modern building of Dilijan theatre and the Dilijan Museum. The central amphitheatre of Dilijan is the venue of many summer festivals and cultural events. Dilijan is among the favorite destinations for local and foreign tourists. The town has a number of high-class hotels and sanatoriums, allowing the visitors the chance to enjoy the beauty of the National Park as well as the historical sites. The town is also famous for its mineral curing water fountains. In 2017, the Transcaucasian Trail began construction in Dilijan National Park. When complete, the trail will span the length of Armenia, from the Armenian-Iranian border and into neighbouring Georgia. As of May 2020 there is approximately 100 kilometres of trail within the Dilijan region that is complete and open to hikers, with many routes passing by monasteries in the region.

Education

[edit] United World College Dilijan campus opened its doors in fall 2014 As of 2009[update], Dilijan had 5 public education schools and 6 kindergartens with 2250 students and 350 children respectively. A music academy and another one for arts are also operating in the town. Dilijan has an operating branch of the Yerevan State Academy of Fine Arts. Three intermediate colleges for medicine, arts and crafts are also operating in the town. With a cost of US$80 million, the Central Bank of Armenia's Educational Center was opened in Dilijan in 2013. Around 150 employees of the Central Bank moved from Yerevan to Dilijan along with their families on the step towards the transformation of the town into a regional financial center. In 2014, the United World College Dilijan, a part of the global educational movement United World Colleges, was opened in the town. The construction of the Dilijan Central School was launched in 2013 by the Ayb Educational Foundation with the cooperation of the Central Bank of Armenia. In autumn 2015, the newly built state-of-the-art school was officially opened. In 2017, the Monte Melkonian Military College of the Ministry of Defence of Armenia was moved from the capital Yerevan to Dilijan. It is housed in an up-to-date complex built between 2011 and 2016 with an approximate cost of AMD 26 billion (around US$ 54.4 million).[citation needed]

Dilijan

Seasonal rhythms for the active traveller

A taste of local craft beyond the museum walls

Comparative perspective: Dilijan and the Alpine spa towns