The story told by Arsen Hambardzumyan is a story about the power of human will and unshakable determination. Arsen had been dreaming of conquering Mount Ararat for a long time, but unfortunately he could not make his dream come true. Arsen finally climbed the top of this formidable and majestic mountain on August 22, 2023 during an ArmGeo tour. This day was really great. Let Arsen tell his story himself.

Ararat: dream and goal

I had been literally mad about climbing Mount Ararat over the past three years. I would come to meetings of mountain hikers,  pack my backpack, but  was forced to give up at the very last moment.

There was a big barrier between me and Ararat – shortage of time. I used to fail to concentrate and prepare properly for climbing because of the constant change of my responsibilities at work and some important business at home. Finally, I got enough energy and motivation to achieve my goal.

Transformative journey

Climbing Mount Ararat is not only a challenge, but also a spiritual journey that changes your personality for the better. You struggle during all the journey – from the initial preparation to the actual ascension. It’s only after you have left all doubts behind and have decided to leave your comfort zone you are ready to understand yourself.

I find it funny enough that my thoughts about my future ascent to Ararat turned out to be quite accurate and realistic. Of course, I had some concerns at first, but I was lucky enough to get into the group of Gevorg, who truly loves his job. Gevorg is an experienced hiker who has already successfully climbed Mount Ararat several times. He willingly shares his experience, transferring his confidence to me and other participants of the hike.

Of course, communication with Gevorg and other people who had experience of climbing the top of Ararat encouraged me and gave me some confidence, but as a beginner  I still found it quite hard to climb such a high mountain. 

“When I was climbing Ararat, my thoughts were boiling …”

I clearly remember that I got thoughts of stopping halfway and returning back to the camp several times, but some kind of inner force did not allow me to do this.

I also remember that a few meters from the top I felt wild delight. Joy bubbled in my heart, I felt a surge of emotions.

5165 m – you are on the top of Ararat

Standing on the very top of Ararat – it’s 5165 meters above sea level –  you feel that is your triumph. You are a winner. The ascent to Mount Ararat has made me believe that nothing is impossible if you are strong-willed and determined enough.

I returned from the mountain hike full of joy and with a sense of accomplishment. Climbing Ararat changed me a lot. I may even say I have become a different, better sort of person. Now I am able to overcome any difficulties and ready to go until the end. The top of the majestic Mount Ararat has become my symbol of triumph.

The top of the majestic Mount Ararat has become my symbol of triumph.

Ararat – the beginning of a new path

Now, when I look at Ararat a smile appears on my face and a desire to climb higher mountains is born in the heart.

What would you advise to people who are dreaming of climbing Mount Ararat?

Get ready purposefully. Make a plan for preparing for the hike and identify the easiest tasks that can be accomplished right now. For example, in my case the first step was purchasing special clothing and equipment for climbing. Remember that step by step you are gradually getting closer to fulfilling your dreams”.

Arsen Hambardzumyan 

Read more about Ararat ascent here.

Hiking and trekking tours in Armenia