Hrazdan Children’s Railway
An abandoned children's railway offering a serene, photogenic escape along the Hrazdan River, blending nature with nostalgic decay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more tranquility
Hrazdan Children’s Railway
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An abandoned children's railway offering a serene, photogenic escape along the Hrazdan River, blending nature with nostalgic decay.
"An amazing place with a great atmosphere, offering relaxation and beauty."
📸 Photographers' Paradise
The abandoned trains and natural setting offer incredible textures and colors for unique shots. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and snacks to enjoy a peaceful meal by the river amidst the nostalgic scenery. :picnic_table:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Run-Down Trains
Along the Hrazdan River
Old, weathered train carriages offer fantastic textures and colors for photographers. Some are still accessible for a unique seating experience.
Riverside Serenity
Adjacent to the railway tracks
The Hrazdan River flows nearby, creating a peaceful ambiance with the sounds of nature and birds. Ideal for a relaxing picnic.
Abandoned Amusement Park Echoes
Above the railway
Discover remnants of an old amusement park, adding to the site's unique, slightly eerie charm and photographic potential.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Safety and Respect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Children's railway is being dismantled
📸 Photographers' Paradise
The abandoned trains and natural setting offer incredible textures and colors for unique shots. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and snacks to enjoy a peaceful meal by the river amidst the nostalgic scenery. :picnic_table:
Children's railway is being dismantled
The Children's Railway Park Yerevan, Armenia.
🚶♀️ Stroll with a Friend
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river and tracks, best experienced with company for safety. :walking:
🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In
Help keep this beautiful, neglected spot clean by taking your trash with you. :wastebasket:
Yerevan Central Park Concept (Part 2)
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photographers' Paradise
The abandoned trains and natural setting offer incredible textures and colors for unique shots. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and snacks to enjoy a peaceful meal by the river amidst the nostalgic scenery. :picnic_table:
🚶♀️ Stroll with a Friend
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river and tracks, best experienced with company for safety. :walking:
🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In
Help keep this beautiful, neglected spot clean by taking your trash with you. :wastebasket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Hrazdan Children's Railway to be a uniquely atmospheric and photogenic spot, offering a peaceful escape by the river. While appreciated for its nostalgic charm and natural beauty, some note the presence of litter and advise caution when visiting alone.
"Not what I expected… But great for taking photos.
Old abandoned trains, situated on the river, below an abandoned amusement park. The trains are run down but provide great texture and colour for photographing. Some carriages are still suitable for sitting in. Could be a good place for a picnic.
Although I felt safe, I wouldn’t suggest going alone."
Leonard Edwards
"It is an amazing place.
The train, the nature, birds sound, the river and the calm all make you feel relax immediately.
You rarely can find such a great atmosphere in the heart of cities and capitals nowadays.
So it is highly recommended 👌
I spend lot of times with family member here"
Khosrow Salehi
"Beautiful abandoned railway station. Fascinating to see from the pictures here that it still seems to have been operational just a few years ago."
Sebastian Königs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The railway is located along the Hrazdan River, accessible by local transport or a taxi from Yerevan. It's situated below an abandoned amusement park, making it a unique landmark to ask for.
Parking availability can be limited and informal. It's often best to arrive by taxi or public transport to avoid any parking hassles.
The site has become a walking trail for residents. Exploring on foot allows you to appreciate the abandoned trains and the natural beauty of the river.
The railway is near the Hrazdan River, and remnants of an amusement park are above it. It's a destination in itself, offering a unique atmosphere.
There isn't a formal entrance. You'll find access points along the riverbank where the old tracks are visible. Look for the abandoned train carriages.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or admission fees required. The site is freely accessible to the public as an abandoned historical location.
As an abandoned site, there are no official operating hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and better exploration.
Entry to the Hrazdan Children's Railway is free. It's a public space that has become a local walking and photography spot.
There are no official tours available for the abandoned railway. Visitors typically explore independently, appreciating the atmosphere and photographic opportunities.
While there are no formal restrictions, it's advised to visit during daylight and ideally not alone due to the abandoned nature of the site.
📸 📸 Photography
The run-down train carriages, the riverbanks, and the surrounding natural landscape offer excellent photographic opportunities. The textures and colors of the abandoned trains are particularly striking.
Yes, the unique, slightly melancholic atmosphere and the visual appeal of the abandoned trains can make for very distinctive and artistic photoshoots.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful, soft light that enhances the textures and mood of the abandoned setting.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage. However, it's always best to be discreet and respectful of the environment and any local visitors.
A camera with good low-light capabilities and a versatile lens would be beneficial. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a prime lens for detail shots of the trains.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors describe it as an amazing, calm, and relaxing place with a great atmosphere, offering a unique blend of nature and abandoned history.
Families do visit, and children can look at the abandoned trains. However, due to the abandoned nature and proximity to the river, adult supervision is crucial.
There are no formal amenities like restrooms or cafes. It's a natural, undeveloped area, so come prepared.
Some sources mention fishing in the Hrazdan River. However, it's unclear if it's permitted directly by the railway or if licenses are required. Research local fishing regulations beforehand.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll be exploring uneven terrain. Dress in layers as the weather can change.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Since the area is not maintained and is near a river, close adult supervision is essential at all times. Encourage children to look but not to climb on unstable structures. Bringing a picnic to enjoy by the river can make the visit more enjoyable and relaxed for everyone.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best results, consider visiting during golden hour for soft, dramatic lighting. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the trains against the landscape, while a prime lens can focus on the intricate details of rust and wear. Remember to be respectful of the site and any other visitors.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Couples
While many find the area safe, it's generally recommended not to visit completely alone, especially if venturing into less visible areas. The site has become a walking trail for locals, so you'll likely encounter others, but exercising caution is always wise. It's a wonderful spot for a relaxed walk and to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into the Past: The Hrazdan Children's Railway
Many visitors find the site incredibly photogenic. The decaying beauty of the trains, with their peeling paint and weathered metal, provides a rich texture and color palette for photographers. The juxtaposition of these man-made structures with the surrounding natural environment – the flowing river, the greenery, and the sounds of birds – creates a captivating scene. It's a location that encourages exploration and discovery, with each carriage and section of track offering a new perspective.
While the railway is abandoned, it's not entirely forgotten. Locals use the area as a walking trail, and some families still bring their children to see the old trains. This adds a layer of community presence to the site. However, visitors are advised to be mindful of safety, especially when exploring alone or near the river. The presence of litter in some areas is a sad reminder of its neglected state, underscoring the importance of responsible visitation and respecting the environment.
Photography at the Abandoned Railway
Beyond the trains themselves, the surrounding natural landscape provides a beautiful backdrop. The Hrazdan River adds a dynamic element, and the changing seasons can dramatically alter the mood of the photographs. Consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – when the light is soft and warm, casting long shadows and highlighting the details of the decaying structures. This lighting can enhance the melancholic beauty of the site.
When planning your shoot, think about the narrative you want to convey. Are you focusing on the grandeur of the past, the quiet beauty of nature reclaiming its space, or the poignant feeling of abandonment? Bringing a versatile lens will allow you to capture both wide scenic shots and intimate details of the trains. Remember to tread carefully and respect the site's condition.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit