The climate in Armenia is highland continental, with hot, dry, sunny summers and cold winters on the plains. The land rises to 4,090 m above sea level at Mount Aragats, and no point is below 390 m above sea level. The terrain is mostly mountainous, with fast flowing rivers, and few forests. Many say that it doesn’t matter which season you visit in, as every season has its different aroma, essence, and beauty. You can visit Armenia in any season and enjoy the artistry that covers this wonderful country. You can read about all the seasons as follows and decide what season suits you the best to plan your trip!
Winters in Armenia
Winters in Armenia are cold with short days and long nights. Winter begins from Mid-November or December with not a lot of snow and mild temperature. From early December you can feel the holiday spirits in the air. You can see the festive lights and Christmas trees in every corner. Dress Warm and visit Northern Avenue for a festive rush. On New Year’s Eve, you can enjoy concerts and fireworks near the Opera or ballet theater or downtown. It starts snowing more often in January which covers the country with a blanket of snow. One of the most important Christian festivals, Christmas is celebrated on 6th January in Armenia.
In February the temperature starts rising a little but it remains unsteady.
You can usually enjoy skiing or ice skating during these months. Tsaghkadzor is the most visited destination during the winters to enjoy winter sports. In the most visited touristic city is a real heaven for those who like winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The most famous ski resort is located above the town, at a height of 1750 meters above sea level. There is also ropeway which lifts up the top of the Mount Teghenis. Initially, there were 3 lifts stretching from the mountains foot (1969 meters) till the peak (2819 meters high).In 2006 was added the 4th lift, stretching from the end of the first stage towards an opposite hilltop.
Springtime in Armenia
In Armenia Spring begins with the sweet smell of snowdrop and violet. Springtime covers the city with green trees and colorful flowers all around. Spring is referred to as a season of love and beauty. March 8 marks International Women’s Day which is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm in the country. Spring begins in March with Sunny afternoons but cold evenings. The average temperature remains between 7 -10 C in the capital Yerevan, sometimes more.
Spring season is usually short and unsteady which lasts until mid-April. The country is blooming during this time of the year. Months of March and April also bring a lot of raining days along with the sweet spring. The temperature in May rises to 20 degrees Celsius. This is a month, that you don’t want to go home because this kind of warm temperature and weather has only May. The people are full of life while souls smile. You can wander along the streets for long hours. Do remember, that the weather in Armenia varies from region to region.
Summer in Armenia
If you like the hot weather Summer is the best time to visit Armenia and have an unforgettable journey. Summertime offers a series of different adventures, you can enjoy hiking, trekking, climbing, paragliding, the longest Zipline, beach holidays, tours and much more. Summer starts in June and remains until early September. In June the country is warm and sunny with an average temperature of 23-26 C. In July, the temperature rises and it becomes really hot. During this time, the locals like to escape the heat of the capital and visit the countryside and enjoy nature. You can visit a lot of places including Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Garni, Geghard, Tatev, Jermuk. The best sanatoriums to relax can be found in Jermuk.
If you are in Armenia during this time don’t forget to eat or try the variety of fresh and juicy fruits that this country offers. There are several types of fruits that are considered a real living symbol of the country. The best of them are apricots, pomegranates, and grapes. You can also find all sorts of berries and melons.
Armenians celebrate Vardavar (festival of water) in July or late June to get cooled down from the heat. Vardavar is associated with the goddess Astghik, who was the goddess of water, beauty, love, and Fertility. It is common to see people pouring buckets of water from balconies on unsuspecting people walking below them, so be prepared to get wet. It is also a means of refreshment on the usually hot and dry summer days of July or late June. This year it will be celebrated on July 8. August is usually the hottest month but the mountain winds blow in the summer which makes the evenings cooler.
Autumn in Armenia
Autumn paints the city in many different shades. As the winds blow and leave change colors to bright orange, the heat gradually reduces and makes perfect weather which is neither hot nor cold. October marks the beginning of Autumn. The average temperature remains 19-22 C. In this season, you can enjoy Armenian grapes and the Armenian wine which will leave you speechless. You can be a part of the Wine Festival on 2-3 October held in Village Areni. You can taste and buy wines from the best winemakers and enjoy the dances of Armenia there. Mid-October becomes colder and cloudy with little rain.
Published February 20, 2018
Article by Aqsa Khan