Yerevan to Selim Pass & Orbelian's Caravanserai
A 14th-century Silk Road caravanserai at the summit of Armenia's most dramatic mountain pass.
~2 hr · ~120 km from Yerevan
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The Vardenyats Pass — known as Selim Pass — is one of the most rewarding high-mountain drives in Armenia, climbing to 2,410 m through switchbacks and volcanic highland before revealing the perfectly preserved Orbelian's Caravanserai at its summit. Built in 1332, the caravanserai sheltered medieval Silk Road merchants crossing between the Ararat Valley and Lake Sevan, and it remains almost entirely intact. The drive from Yerevan heads east toward Sevan and then turns south into the Vayots Dzor highlands. A 4×4 or high-clearance SUV is strongly recommended — the pass road has tight switchbacks and is frequently snow-covered from October to May, making this emphatically a fair-weather or properly equipped winter route.
Trip highlights
- Orbelian's Caravanserai — 14th-century Silk Road waystation, one of Armenia's best-preserved
- Selim Pass at 2,410 m — dramatic volcanic highland panoramas
- Tight switchback road through Vayots Dzor with almost no traffic
- Can be combined with Lake Sevan or Noravank on a loop route
Driving tips
4×4 recommended, winter avoided
The pass is paved but narrow with steep switchbacks, and snow accumulates from October through May. A 4×4 or SUV with good clearance is the right vehicle; check road conditions before departure in shoulder seasons.
Yerevan to Selim Pass & Orbelian's Caravanserai FAQs
It's a 14th-century Silk Road caravanserai built in 1332 by the Orbelian princes at the summit of the Selim Pass (2,410 m). Remarkably well-preserved, it served merchants crossing between the Ararat Valley and the Lake Sevan basin.
Renting a car for the trip
Compare deals for your dates in the search below. For mountain or longer hauls, consider an SUV or a 4×4, and if you're not returning to your pickup city, check out a one-way rental.