population: 20.6 million

extension: 56.54 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Gavar, Armenia and interested in visiting museums, a great option could be the Gavar State Museum of Local Lore. It exhibits over 30,000 items, including archaeological finds, ethnographic objects, and artworks, showcasing the history and culture of the Gegharkunik region. If you are looking for similar museum experiences nearby, you may also want to check out the Dilijan City Museum of History and Regional Studies or Sevan Peninsula Historical-Ethnographic Museum-Reserve.

Food

Some of the most popular and typical dishes to try in Gavar, Armenia according to local people are:

1. Khorovats - Grilled meat (usually pork or beef) marinated in onions, vinegar, and spices.
2. Ghapama - Baked pumpkin stuffed with rice, fruits, nuts, and honey.
3. Harissa - A porridge-like dish made from chicken or lamb, wheat, and seasoning that is slow-cooked for several hours until it becomes very soft and tender.
4. Ishli Kufteh - Meatballs made with ground beef or lamb mixed with bulgur, seasoned with onion, salt, and pepper, and filled with a mixture of spiced ground meat, onions, and nuts.
5. Dolma - Grape leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, herbs, and spices.

These dishes are widely available in restaurants and food establishments throughout Gavar and are considered must-try local delicacies.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Gavar, Armenia include:

1. Hiking: The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and hills, making it an ideal location for hiking. Nearby destinations such as Mount Armaghan and Lake Sevan offer stunning natural trails.

2. Visiting Local Markets: Locals love to visit the open-air markets in Gavar to buy fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and even handmade souvenirs. The market is usually bustling with activity and a great place to experience local culture.

3. Water Sports: Gavar is located near Lake Sevan, which is one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world. Locals love to engage in activities like kayaking, swimming, and fishing on the lake during the summer months.

4. Enjoying Armenian Cuisine: Food is an important part of Armenian culture, and Gavar has many restaurants and cafes where you can taste traditional dishes like khorovats (barbecue), lavash (flatbread), and dolma (stuffed grape leaves).

5. Exploring Historical Sites: Gavar has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and locals take pride in their heritage. Some popular historical sites to explore include the Noratus Cemetery, the Hayravank Monastery, and the Geghard Monastery complex.