Quick facts :
- Currency: Armenian Dram; ₹ 1 is approximately 6 Dram
- Capital- Yerevan sometimes called Erevan. The history of the city dates back to the 8th century BC
- Safety: Armenia is considered to be one of the safest countries in the world for solo travelers as well as for families. Low crime level and the hospitality of the locals allow tourists to enjoy their time here without any fear for their safety.
- Diplomatic relations between India and Armenia were established on 31 August 1992. India opened its embassy in Yerevan on 1 March 1999. Armenia, which had opened an honorary consulate in April 1994, established its embassy in New Delhi in October 1999.
- Population: 3 million
- Continent: Asia
- Best time to visit: The best timeto explore Armenia is from May to September, as it rarely rains at this time and the temperatures are the most pleasant. July and August are the warmest months, while January is the coldest.
- Prohibhition: Armenia strictly enforces its laws relating to the possession, trafficking, and use of illegal drugs, including marijuana.
- Armenia is known for its beautiful landscapes, its cuisine, culture and history. Since Armenia was the first country to officially adopt Christianity, you can find some of the world’s oldest churches and monasteries located in the extremely beautiful natural settings
The sultry sands of Dubai were the mood in August when suddenly a solo trip idea beckoned me. The rest of 15 minutes passed by in a while booking the flight tickets. I realised that there are no visa formalities and boss I was excited. The wheels touched the small airport of Yerevan and it was Love at First Sight. The capital was nestled in concoctions of archaeological beauty, wide pristine rivers and the smell of cheese!
The first pitstop in the crisp nippy morning was the Geghard monastery. The monastery was founded in the 4th century by Gregory the illuminator. The caves were mystic with the sound and echo travelling. There was sunlight from the outside caressing my face and the church somehow brought so much solace to the mind. Wandering around the ruins, I was continuously reminded of an era gone by and tried to imagine the beauty of times.
I still remember that climbing a hill wasn’t the easiest task for me and the parched throat added to the misery. All of a sudden, a small tiny sacred stream came alive through the caves for me to drink. I was a bit sceptical in the beginning, however, the traveller in me soon took over. For a split second, I felt like the Bollywood actress Zeenat Aman of yesteryears epitomising the same act.
Minutes later, my attention caught a huge cross on the mountain tip which was intensely standing and I kept staring as if some power have taken over my soul. Historically, it is said that the monastery was always protected by the cross. I also learned it to be a UNESCO site that now provides enhanced protection though I didn’t doubt it for a minute that the ruins needed the love and protection of humans
The walls inside the Monastery have sculptures, writing and ornate chandeliers that adorned the huge ceiling. Absolutely everything about the place was soul-warming. As I walked out with nostalgia, my head and heart were gratified for being able to experience such a place.
The fresh smell of freshly baked bread filled the air and I sipped onto local wine, observing the chubby old ladies kissing and hugging in the vicinity. The Cheese and meal were like winning a lottery. An intangible potluck of travel memories, simple yet clean food with the flavours of small-town folks with big hearts. Armenia you will remain etched in me forever!
