10 MOST BEAUTIFUL RIVERS IN ARMENIA

Armenia is known as a country of beautiful high mountains. Due to such a feature of the landscape, all the rivers of Armenia have a very fast, rapid flow. For this reason, in ancient times, Armenia was called “Nairi”, which means “country of fast waters.” Natural waters are always highly valued here and were considered sacred centuries ago. Nowadays, there are more than 9,400 rivers and streams with a total length of 180 thousand kilometers in Armenia. Let us find out about the 10 largest and most beautiful of them.

1. The Araks River

The Araks River, the largest and longest river in Armenia, is often called Mother Araks (“Mayr-Araks”). You can even find information about the Araks in the Bible. The Araks flows through the entire territory of the Armenian Highlands and into the Caspian Sea. The fauna of the river is very rich; trout is found here, which is delicious in taste.

2. The Arpa River

The Arpa flows through a picturesque gorge with steep rocky areas and wonderful green islands. The path of the Arpa River lies not far from Jermuk waterfall, partially feeding on the waters of local mineral springs. There are a large number of historical and architectural attractions on the banks of this river.

3. The Debed River

The Debed is a swift mountain river with a powerful current and several dangerous sections. You can see several ancient monasteries on the banks of Debed, which are today historical monuments. The ancient Sanahin Bridge (12th century) is located on the river in Alaverdi city.

4. The Vorotan River

The name of the Vorotan River (“Thundering” or “Roaring”) fully reflects its stormy “character”. The Vorotan originates from Artsakh Plateau and flows into the Araks River. There are a large number of natural and historical attractions near the river, among which are the “Devil’s Bridge”, a real natural miracle, the magnificent Shaki Falls, etc.

5. The Dzoraget River

The Dzoraget River is a tributary of the Debed. The Dzoraget will appeal to fans of extreme sports, as its vast area is suitable for rafting. This part of the river flows along the bottom of a deep canyon with steep rocks, the height of which is 100-300 meters.

6. The Hrazdan River

The Hrazdan River is the second longest among the rivers of Armenia. The Hrazdan originates from Lake Sevan, flows through the capital city of Armenia into the Araks River. You can see a very picturesque sight of the Hrazdan River Gorge with steep slopes. Several bridges were built across the gorge.

7. The Akhuryan River

The Akhuryan is a rather large river, occupying the second place in terms of full-flow among the rivers of Armenia. The Akhuryan is distinguished by a relatively unhurried flow, especially in the initial part, passing through marshy meadows. On one side of the river is the city of Gyumri, on the other – the ruins of the ancient Armenian capital Ani.

8. The Azat River

A beautiful mountain river, originating on the slopes of the Geghama mountain range. Geghard Monastery, partly built in caves, is located in the upper side of the Azat River, not far from the shore. The ancient pagan temple Garni is located on the right bank of the river.

9. The Aghstev River

The Aghstev River, which is a tributary of the Kura, originates in the mountains of Pambak. The picturesque banks of the river are covered with abundant greenery. You can see large stones rising from the water, giving the river a peculiar, severe beauty.

10. The Kasakh River

A rocky, stormy river originates on the slopes of Mount Aragats, at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters. 
There are the 13th-century monasteries Saghmosavank and Hovhannavank on the banks of the Kasakh River, as well as the more ancient Astvatsinkal Monastery (V — VIII century). Aparan reservoir is located on the Kasakh River.