Khosrov Forest State Reserve, located in Armenia’s Ararat Province, is one of the world’s oldest protected areas. Founded by King Khosrov Kotak in the 4th century (334–338 AD) and officially designated a state reserve in September 1958, it now spans over 23,200 hectares at elevations of 700–2,800 meters.
Zones: The reserve is divided into four sectors—Garni, Kakavaberd, Khosrov, and Khachadzor—and also includes the Goravan Sands Sanctuary (95.99 ha) and Khor Virap Sanctuary (50.28 ha).
Flora: Home to more than 1,800 plant species—over 50% of Armenia’s flora and one-third of the Caucasus flora—including oaks, hornbeams, wild fruit trees, 80 species listed in Armenia’s Red Book and 24 endemics.
Fauna: Hosts 283 vertebrate species—192 birds, 44 mammals, 33 reptiles, 9 fish, and 5 amphibians—with many listed in Armenia’s Red Book and the IUCN Red List.
Recognition: Awarded the European Diploma for Protected Areas in 2013 for its outstanding ecological and cultural values.
The FPAN “Rural Tourism Development” Program supports conservation efforts, scientific research, and community education at Khosrov Forest State Reserve, helping safeguard Armenia’s unique natural heritage.
