Lake Sevan

Region

Gegharkunik

Distance from Yerevan

64.1 km

Type

Lake

Lake Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia and the third largest in the Armenian Highland, after Lake Van and Lake Urmia. It is surrounded by the Geghama, Vardenis, Areghuni, and Sevan mountains. 28 rivers flow into the lake, but only one river, the Hrazdan, flows out. The lake is divided into two parts: Big Sevan and Little Sevan. The lake is 70 km long and 55 km wide at its widest point. During the Soviet era, the water level of the lake dropped significantly, leading to serious ecological problems in the region. To restore the lake’s level, two water tunnels were built: Arpa–Sevan and Vorotan–Arpa. In 1978, the Sevan National Park was established.

Interesting

facts about Lake Sevan

Facts

Lake Sevan is the second highest freshwater lake in the world, after Lake Titicaca in South America.

Archaeological excavations in the area revealed that the territory around Lake Sevan has been inhabited since the Neolithic and Bronze Ages.

In ancient times, the lake was known as the Geghama or Gegharkunik Sea.

According to legend, refugees from Van arrived at the shores of Sevan and, believing it to be another Van, decided to settle there. However, the cold and harsh climate forced them to long for their former warm and prosperous life, and they bitterly exclaimed: ""Sev Van (Black Van) has come upon us! Sev Van!"" Thus, the lake received its name, Sevan.

Weather in Gegharkunik

The high season in Armenia lasts for a long time due to the pleasant climate conditions. Warm days in Armenia start in March and last until late autumn; winter is usually snowless and not long. The high precipitation season is variable. The tourist season for Seavn Lake depends on the weather conditions.

Sights

near Lake Sevan

Sevanavank Monastic Complex

0 km

Sevan National Park

14 km

Tsaghakadzor City

28 km

Orbeli Brothers House Museum

29 km