Appropriately nicknamed the “Armenian Stonehenge,” this megalithic site is every bit as mysterious as its English counterpart. Also known as Zorats Karer (Armenian for “Vertical Stones”), Karahunj consists of a couple hundred basalt stones arranged in circles that continue to befuddle researchers. But the biggest draw is arguably the location: Located in Armenia’s mountainous Syunik region, the ancient village is spread out over a vast arid plain surrounded by green hills. One of the most popular things to do in Karahunj is stargazing, though history buffs and photographers will enjoy themselves regardless of the sun’s position.
Autumn is the ideal season to visit Karahunj, when the days are still warm but the scorching heat of summer in Armenia’s southernmost province (part of Syunik borders Iran) has cooled. It remains a remote area, and winter can make the roads difficult to navigate when the mountaintops turn white with snowfall. Spring is another option, although the wilderness might still be thawing out.
There is no direct public transportation option to reach Karahunj, but travelers still have several options. Many people take buses to Goris, a picturesque town in the same province, and then travel onward to Karahunj by private taxi. Taxis can also be arranged all the way from Yerevan and back (around 4.5 hours by car), although that makes for a tiring day trip. There’s plenty to do in the vicinity, and many guided tours offer multi-day itineraries.
This part of southern Armenia has been famous for its wine production for thousands of years. In fact, locals lay claim to the oldest winery in the world over in nearby Vayots Dzor. Head to Areni—reachable from Karahunj by car in less than two hours—for a tasting of the region’s best offerings. If you’re taking part in a guided excursion, chances are you’ll already be stopping here for a glass (or two).