This Walk at Lake Sevan Ended With Something I Didn't Expect at All

⛪ SEVANAVANK MONASTERY | Walking Tour | Armenia's Iconic Lakeside Monastery Perched above the deep blue waters of Lake Sevan, Sevanavank is one of Armenia's most beloved and photogenic landmarks. This peaceful walk takes you from the ancient khachkars at the base of the hill, up to the 9th-century monastery itself, along a hidden path through striking orange rock formations, and ends with an unexpected and joyful surprise: a group of local students dancing a traditional Armenian round dance as the sun sets over the lake. 🎒 About this walk: Sevanavank, meaning "Monastery of Sevan," was founded in 874 AD on what was once a small island in Lake Sevan, before Soviet-era water diversion lowered the lake level and connected it permanently to the shore. Sitting at over 1,900 meters above sea level, Lake Sevan is one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world, and few places capture its beauty better than this ancient monastery watching over its waters for over a thousand years. 📍 HIGHLIGHTS IN THIS VIDEO: 00:00 – 🛍️ The Souvenir Alley — A relaxed walk past local stalls selling handmade souvenirs on the way up to the monastery. 01:20 – ✝️ Ancient Khachkars — A close look at some beautifully carved Armenian cross-stones near the base of the hill, with the first stunning glimpses of Lake Sevan stretching out behind them. 02:30 – 🪜 Climbing to the Monastery — A short and easy climb up the stone steps, passing even more weathered, centuries-old khachkars along the way. 03:20 – 🕯️ Inside Sevanavank — Stepping into the dark stone interior, where a small round opening in the roof lets a single beam of natural sunlight pour in. Ancient inscriptions cover the walls, and at 5:10, a group of schoolchildren can be seen quietly praying — a genuinely moving and authentic moment. 05:55 – 🌊 The Monastery Courtyard — Circling the exterior, with the calm blue expanse of Lake Sevan providing one of the most peaceful backdrops in all of Armenia. 07:55 – 🪨 The Hidden Path — Discovering a scenic trail behind the monastery lined with striking orange rock formations — a quiet, unexpected detour away from the main crowds. 13:00 – 💃 Traditional Armenian Dance — The perfect ending: on the way back down to the parking area, a group of Armenian students breaks into a joyful traditional round dance to folk music. A beautiful, spontaneous celebration of culture that closes out the walk on the happiest possible note.