50 Tips and Hacks for Travellers Going to Armenia from India - Before You Travel

Planning a trip from India to Armenia? Here are 50 tips and hacks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:

Visas and Documentation (10 Tips)

1. Visa Requirements: Double-check visa requirements for Indian citizens entering Armenia. You might need to apply for a visa beforehand or obtain a visa on arrival. Check the Armenian embassy in India's website for the latest information.
2. Passport Validity: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining from your planned date of return from Armenia.
3. Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and baggage loss.
4. Photocopies: Make photocopies of your passport's main page, visa (if applicable), and travel insurance documents. Keep them separate from the originals.
5. Airline Confirmation: Print a copy of your airline confirmation or have it easily accessible on your phone.
6. Accommodation Booking: Print confirmations for all your accommodation bookings in Armenia.
7. Currency Exchange: Research currency exchange rates and consider exchanging some Indian Rupee (INR) to Armenian Dram (AMD) beforehand. You can also use ATMs in Armenia, but inform your bank about your travels to avoid blocked cards.
8. Download Offline Maps: Download offline maps of Armenia for your phone in case you lose internet access.
9. Important Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact information, including the Indian embassy in Armenia, your local bank's contact details, and important phone numbers back home. 1 Register with MEA: Register your trip with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India for safety and security purposes. https://mea.gov.in/

Planning and Research (10 Tips)

11. Best Time to Visit: Armenia experiences four distinct seasons. Summer (June-August) is warm and dry, perfect for exploring historical sites. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Winter (December-February) can be cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
12. Festivals and Events: Research Armenian festivals and events happening during your travel dates. You might experience unique cultural celebrations.
13. Itinerary Planning: Plan a rough itinerary considering the places you want to visit, transportation options, and travel time between destinations.
14. Research Local Transportation: Learn about different transportation options in Armenia, including buses, taxis, and the metro (in Yerevan). Consider purchasing a travel card for discounted fares.
15. Learn Basic Armenian Phrases: Learn a few basic Armenian phrases like "hello" (Barev), "thank you" (Shnorhakalut'yun), and "please" (Hajalik). Armenians appreciate tourists trying to speak their language. There are many resources online and mobile apps to help you learn.
16. Download Translation Apps: Download a translation app to help you communicate with locals who might not speak English.
17. Book Activities in Advance: Consider booking popular activities or tours in Armenia beforehand, especially during peak season.
18. Pack Light: Pack light clothes that you can layer according to the season. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Armenia's many historical sites.
19. Currency Converter App: Download a currency converter app to easily convert Armenian Dram (AMD) to Indian Rupee (INR) and vice versa.
20. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water in Yerevan is generally safe to drink, but consider carrying a reusable water bottle to minimize plastic waste.

Money and Costs (10 Tips)

21. Estimated Budget: Research average travel costs in Armenia for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. This will help you create a realistic budget for your trip.
22. Credit Cards and ATMs: Carry a credit card with international transaction capabilities and inform your bank about your travels to avoid blocked cards. ATMs are widely available in Yerevan, but they might charge withdrawal fees.
23. Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Armenia, but it's becoming more common in tourist establishments. A small tip (around 10%) is always appreciated.
24. Bargaining: Bargaining is expected at local markets and souvenir shops. Be polite and respectful while negotiating prices.
25. Cash for Taxis and Smaller Shops: Carry some cash for taxis and smaller shops that might not accept cards.
26. Travel Debit Card: Consider getting a travel debit card that offers competitive exchange rates and avoids foreign

50 Tips and Hacks for Travellers Going to Armenia from India (continued)

Culture and Etiquette (10 Tips)

27. Dress Modestly: Armenia is a relatively conservative country. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing or excessively short shorts.
28. Greetings: A handshake is the most common form of greeting. Men might greet each other with a kiss on the cheek.
29. Respecting Elders: Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Armenian culture. Address elders as "Sir" or "Madam" and offer them your seat on public transport.
30. Table Manners: Wait to be seated at the table and avoid using your phone while dining. It's polite to toast with the host and take small bites initially.
31. Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection are not as common in Armenia as in India. Be mindful of this and avoid overly affectionate behavior in public spaces.
32. Photography: It's generally okay to take photos in Armenia, but ask permission before photographing people, especially in religious settings.
33. Shoes Off: It's customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a religious site.
34. Gifts: If you're invited to an Armenian home, bring a small gift like sweets, flowers, or a bottle of wine.
35. Learning about the Armenian Genocide: The Armenian Genocide is a sensitive topic. If visiting relevant museums or memorials, approach the subject with respect and learn about its historical significance.
36. Understanding "No": Head shaking can sometimes signify "yes" in Armenia, while nodding might indicate "no." Pay attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues to avoid confusion.

Safety and Security (10 Tips)

37. General Safety: Armenia is a relatively safe country for tourists. However, be cautious with your belongings in crowded places, especially at night.
38. Solo Female Travelers: Solo female travelers can generally travel safely in Armenia, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas at night.
39. Traffic Safety: Traffic rules can be different in Armenia. Be cautious when crossing roads and use designated pedestrian crossings.
40. Emergency Numbers: Learn and save emergency contact numbers for police, ambulance, and fire department.
41. Register with your Embassy: Register with the Indian embassy in Armenia upon arrival. This allows them to assist you in case of emergencies.
42. Make Copies of Important Documents: Make photocopies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance documents. Keep them separate from the originals in case of theft.
43. Stay Updated: Stay updated on current events and any safety advisories issued for Armenia before and during your trip.
44. Trust Your Gut: If a situation feels unsafe, trust your gut instinct and remove yourself from it.
45. Travel with a Buddy: Consider traveling with a friend or joining group tours, especially if you're new to solo travel.

Additional Tips (5 Tips)

46. Download Offline Apps: Download offline language translation apps and entertainment apps for times when you might not have internet access.
47. Power Adapters: Check if you need a power adapter for your electronic devices in Armenia.
48. Learn about Armenian Cuisine: Armenian cuisine is delicious and features fresh ingredients, grilled meats, and unique flatbreads. Research some popular dishes to try during your trip.
49. Sample Local Wine: Armenia has a long history of winemaking. Sample some delicious Armenian wines during your visit.
50. Embrace the Culture: Be open to experiencing Armenian culture, trying new things, and learning about the country's rich history and traditions.

By following these tips and hacks, you can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and culturally enriching trip to Armenia from India!