Shikahogh
State Reserve
Within the reserve, guided accompaniment by specialists from the Zangezur Biosphere Complex is mandatory, and a permit must be obtained in advance.
Contacts - Zangezur Biosphere Complex
The Shikahogh State Reserve of the Zangezur Biosphere Complex is located in Armenia’s Syunik Province — on the southeastern slopes of Mount Khustup and the northeastern slopes of the Meghri Range, in the upper basins of the Tsav and Shikahogh rivers, at altitudes ranging from 700 to 2800 meters above sea level. It was established in 1958 with the purpose of preserving oak, beech, and hornbeam forests, the relict ash grove, as well as the area’s rich diversity of flora and fauna.
📌 Interesting facts
— According to some historical sources, one of the major trade routes — the Silk Road — once passed through the area of today’s Shikahogh State Reserve.
— The virgin forest described in Axel Bakunts’ short story “Mtnadzor” is located within the territory of the reserve.
Contacts - Zangezur Biosphere Complex
The Shikahogh State Reserve of the Zangezur Biosphere Complex is located in Armenia’s Syunik Province — on the southeastern slopes of Mount Khustup and the northeastern slopes of the Meghri Range, in the upper basins of the Tsav and Shikahogh rivers, at altitudes ranging from 700 to 2800 meters above sea level. It was established in 1958 with the purpose of preserving oak, beech, and hornbeam forests, the relict ash grove, as well as the area’s rich diversity of flora and fauna.
📌 Interesting facts
— According to some historical sources, one of the major trade routes — the Silk Road — once passed through the area of today’s Shikahogh State Reserve.
— The virgin forest described in Axel Bakunts’ short story “Mtnadzor” is located within the territory of the reserve.
Ksa Jur is located within the territory of the Shikahogh Reserve. It is a partially ruined church dating back to the 13th–14th centuries, built with roughly hewn stones. Inside the church, there is a small pool, and from beneath its foundation flows a mineral spring, the water of which is believed, according to legend, to have healing properties. Ancient settlements can also be found in the surrounding area.
Berdakar
Surrounded by gorges and steep slopes, this peak is located 5 km from the village of Shikahoh. It's a sacred peak for blondes. A 9 km long hiking route has been developed from the village to Berdakar.
Surrounded by gorges and steep slopes, this peak is located 5 km from the village of Shikahoh. It's a sacred peak for blondes. A 9 km long hiking route has been developed from the village to Berdakar.