Mount Khustup

In southeastern Armenia, nearly 300 kilometers from Yerevan and not far from the town of Kapan, Mount Khustup rises to 3,206 meters above sea level. Part of the Khustup-Katari arc-shaped range, it stands as a powerful symbol of the Syunik Province. Since ancient times, Khustup has been revered as sacred. At sunrise, the sun emerges directly behind its peak—this phenomenon once led to the mountain being worshipped as a solar deity. For centuries, its slopes hosted ritual pagan celebrations. Even today, Khustup remains a destination for pilgrims drawn by its spiritual legacy.

The mountain is not only admired for its striking views. It is also closely associated with the Armenian commander Garegin Nzhdeh, whose efforts ensured that Syunik-Zangezur remained part of the Republic of Armenia. His remains rest on Khustup’s slope, near the Kozni spring—an unmarked but revered site that continues to draw those who honor his legacy.

The southeastern slopes of Khustup give rise to the right tributaries of the Voghji River—Gekhanush and Vachagan. From the southwestern slopes flows Shishkert, a left tributary of the Tsav River.

Each year, Khustup attracts a steady stream of hikers, mountaineers, cyclists, and adventurers. Jeep tours wind through the rugged terrain, while footpaths invite exploration at a slower pace. Travelers often encounter wild turkeys and mountain goats along the way. Ice-cold water from natural springs offers refreshment. The panoramic views reward every step, and the alpine flora reveals a world of hardy beauty shaped by altitude and climate.