Narek Aleksanyan

Other than sharing the same name, the lake and the town really have nothing in common.

While the lake is regarded as a prime tourist destination spot, the town, a mere three kilometers away, remains off the beaten track for most visiting the area. It lacks the infrastructure necessary to attract people.

There’s not one registered hotel in the town. Public transportation from the town to the lake is spotty at best, and most of the town’s streets are impassable given their condition.

Despite the shortcomings, visitors continue to flock to Lake Sevan.

Sevanavank is the first stop for many visitors.

Italian tourists brushing up on the monastery’s history.

Most tourists, from Armenia and overseas, relax on the lake’s peninsula. 

A path to one of the public beaches.

Parking at the public beach.

A public beach playground.

What’s not permitted, and what is…

Jet skis often get too close to bathers.

Public toilet – “Let’s keep our Sevan clean”

There’s a first-aid station and emergency services post at the public beach.

Private beaches abound on the peninsula. Your own private villa, on shaky stilts, awaits.

More jet skis.

Soviet old-school water bikes.

A skinny Nessie, perhaps, or a sub’s periscope.

Changing rooms on the beach. 

Beaches and water visibly cleaner even a short distance from the peninsula.

Garbage dumps not far from the lake shore.

All aboard! The Sevan tour boat.

The town of Sevan is a few kilometers from the lake.

The market in Sevan.

There are vendors from all over Armenia.

Bargains are to be found here.

Lavash is kept indoors. It would dry out in the sun.

Clothing central.

Vendors decry the lack of customers. Many take loans to stay open.

A road near the market.

Construction site – “A more well-ordered Sevan” 

Church of the Holy Archangels

A park square and play area in the town’s Garage neighborhood.

The same seen from above.

Residential housing

A playground on the outskirts of Sevan.

The old flour factory.

Street musician croons in several languages.

Public transportation.

P.S. – always smile!