What Are the Must-See Attractions in Mount Ararat?

Mount Ararat, standing tall at 16,854 feet (5,137 meters), is a very famous mountain in Eastern Turkey. It is also termed as Ağrı Dağı in the Turkish language. This snow-covered peak is a natural wonder you must explore to make your Turkey holidays unforgettable. It is a place full of rich history and so many stories. Many people think that Mount Ararat is the sanctuary of Noah’s Ark, which is a story from the Bible. The mountain is a dormant volcano, meaning it is inactive right now. Despite that, it has shaped the land around it for thousands of years.

Travellers from all over the world are drawn to its natural beauty and mystery. No matter if you’re interested in history or the attractions surrounding it, Mount Ararat offers something special for everyone. Let’s delve ahead into the top places in or near the mountain you must see.

The Historical and Cultural Significance of Mount Ararat

There has long been a connection between Mount Ararat and Noah’s Ark in the Bible. According to the Bible, Noah’s Ark landed on Ararat. Though no one is aware of the exact place where the Ark landed, Mount Ararat is the spot most people believe it happened. That’s why the mountain holds great significance to many people. It has become a place for spiritual journeys, especially for Christianity and Judaism. Mount Ararat is outside of modern Armenia. That is the reason it is considered a sacred symbol for Armenians. It appears in their literature, art, and national coat of arms, representing the heart of their homeland as well as a powerful reminder of their history.

The border between Azerbaijan, Armenia, Iran, and Turkey also includes Mount Ararat, which is a historical landmark. The mountain marked the crossroads between the Ottoman Empire and Persia in the past. Later, in the 19th century, it came under the control of Russia before being passed to Turkey in the 20th century. Adding more, Kurds also fought on the mountain during the Ararat Rebellion in the 1920s. The rich history of Mount Ararat shows how it has played a crucial role in shaping the past of the region. It is a great place that history lovers must discover.

Top Attractions in Mount Ararat You Must See

Are you planning your tour to Turkey? Don’t forget to add Mount Ararat to your bucket list. No matter when you travel to the region, the following are some attractions that you must explore;

Mount Ararat Summit

The most thrilling attraction in Mount Ararat is its summit. With a height of 16,854 feet, the mountain is the highest peak you will see in Turkey. The hike to the summit is not easy, but it is an experience that you will never forget in your life. You may need physical preparation and a proper guide to go to the summit. The climb starts from the base camp. It may take a few days to reach the summit. Moreover, you will encounter rocky terrains and snow-covered landscapes during the hike. The stunning views stretching across the Amrenian Highlands will amaze you.

The Ararat Valley

If you want a more relaxed experience in Mount Ararat, never miss out on the chance to visit the Ararat Valley. You will find it right below the mountain. It is a peaceful retreat that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Be it nature walks, hiking, or simply enjoying the scenery of the area, the Ararat Valley is the perfect spot. The valley is home to several villages, where you can learn about traditional Turkish life. For those who love photography, there are a lot of opportunities to capture the beauty of Mother Nature with your loved ones.

The Local Cuisine

One of the other attractions in Mount Ararat is the local cuisine. A trip to the mountain would not be complete without trying the delicious food. The region is renowned for its hearty dishes, rich in flavour, and made with fresh ingredients. Traditional Turkish dishes, like pilaf, kebabs, and stews, are popular in the area. Local specialities, such as Keşkek, are a dish you need to try. In addition to mouthwatering dishes, you will also find yummy desserts, like Turkish delight and baklava. After a busy day of discovering Mount Ararat, the local cuisine becomes a necessity.

Iğdır Province

Iğdır Province is the perfect gateway to the mountain if you’re thinking of jetting off to Mount Ararat. It is found at the foot of the mountain. The province is an ideal place that adventurers and climbers must visit. The town itself is a quiet place you should never miss. It is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including rivers, fields, and rolling hills. Iğdır is known for its pleasant climate. This makes it a popular spot for tourists before they go to the mountain. You will just love the sunrise and sunset views from Iğdır, which will make the most of your Turkey holidays.

Meteor Crater

Not far from Iran is Meteor Crater. You will find this place near the border with Iran. Among other attractions near Mount Ararat, Meteor Crater is no exception. It is thought to be one of the largest meteorite impact craters in the world. You will be surprised to know that the crater is over 60 meters deep and 35 meters wide. This is a cool spot for science fans, space lovers, or anyone who wants to enjoy something truly unique. Meteor Crater is not developed for tourism yet, so the site has a raw feel to it. If you’re with your kids, you must take them to see this place.

Ağrı

Ağrı is one of the well-known cities near Mount Ararat. It is another important hub for travellers going to the mountain. You might not know, but the city is always bustling with activity. It offers a broad range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and hotels. Ağrı is the largest city you will see in the region. It gives a glimpse into modern Turkish life while still being close to the hidden beauty of the mountain. Not only this, but the city is also home to so many historical sites, like the Ağrı Museum. The museum displays artefacts from the ancient past of the region.

The Eastern Anatolia Region

The Eastern Anatolia region is filled with a number of attractions for visitors. There is no doubt that Turkey has a rich culture, history, and natural wonders that are worth exploring. One of the highlights of this region is Lake Van. It is only a few hours’ drive from Mount Ararat. Enclosed by mountains, this region provides a picturesque setting for an enjoyable trip. You can visit the historical Akdamar Island, take a boat ride on the lake, or simply witness the beauty of nature. On top of that, the city of Ani is another noticeable place you can see near the Armenian border.

Concluding Remarks

Mount Ararat stands as a symbol of both cultural significance and natural beauty. It is a towering presence that has captured the attention of people for centuries. Whether viewed through the lens of history or geology, the mountain offers a rich mix of stories and wonderful experiences. It presents a challenging but rewarding journey for adventurers and travellers. The mountain has been a powerful symbol of identity and heritage. It doesn’t matter if you’re travelling as a solo or with your loved ones. Exploring Mount Ararat is the best choice to make your Turkey holidays full of fun and excitement. Don’t worry if you have a busy schedule and can’t plan the vacation on your own. Contact Virikson Holidays to get your tour planned perfectly! Be it visa, hotel booking, or VIP transport, everything is covered for a smooth tour.