Due to geographic location and high mountains, Armenia is rich in water resources. Moreover, the water in Armenia is considered one of the purest and tastiest in the world as it is supplied from natural sources. There are dozens of lakes in our country, but nearly all of them are very small. Unfortunately, we have only one big fresh lake - Sevan. In this article, we are going to list the most popular lakes in Armenia and find out everything about them. Let's go!
Lake in Armenia #1 Sevan
Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia. The lake is located in the Gegharkunik region of Armenia, at 1,900 meters above the sea level. The total area is 1,240 km², and the maximum depth is 83 meters. The lake is surrounded by Pambak, Sevan, Geghama, Vardenis mountains. The beauty of this lake is the ancient monastery of Sevanavank which was built in 874. There is also a national park called "Sevan." It is home to 1145 species of high vascular plants. The park was founded in 1978 to protect the lake and its surrounding areas. It is a favorite place for fish lovers, as "Ishkhan" - the Armenian trout reproduces there. They're also used to be an island in the lake, but the level of Sevan was lowered, and it became a peninsula.
Lake Sevan plays a vital role in our economy, as it is the primary source of low-cost electricity. It is also a great tourist attraction. As you know, we don't have direct access to the sea, and the territory around the Sevan is an excellent choice to have a rest in summer. There you will find public beaches, cottages, hotels, restaurants, etc. The beaches offer free parking spaces, playgrounds, medical aid stations, and rescue services. It is a popular destination not only for the Armenians but also for the tourists who visit our country in summer. If you also plan to travel to our country in hot weather, don't miss the chance to enjoy the beauty of this picturesque lake.
Lake in Armenia #2 Gosh
In the dense forests of the Tavush region, the Gosh lake is located in the heart of the forests at Dilijan Reserve. The lake lies not far from the Gosh village where Goshavank monastery stands out.
The name of the lake comes from the Gosh village that, on its turn, was named after Mkhitar Gosh - Armenian writer and public figure in the 12-13th centuries. Lake Gosh is surrounded by thick forests and rich nature. Hiking trips are organized up to the Gosh lake. The tour offers picturesque landscapes and breathtaking views. The territory around the lake is a perfect place for cozy picnics with family or friends.
Lake in Armenia #3 Kari
The lake Kari is located on the slopes of Mount Aragats in the Aragatsotn region, 3185m. above sea level. The lake is near the Byurakan village, and there is a road from Byurakan to Kari that is easy to pass on foot.
The water of the lake is mainly collected from ice formation, snow and rain. The area is mostly surrounded by snow and that is the reason, the lake water is rather cold.
The name of the lake “Kari” comes from the Armenian word “kar” (քար), which means “stone”. The river Arkashen starts from the lake Kari.
Lake in Armenia #4 Arpi
The second largest lake in Armenia is called "Arpi." It is located in the Shirak province, at the altitude of 2025 meters above sea level.
The surface area is 220 km². The water in this lake is cold, and you can't swim there. In winter, it is completely covered in ice. Lake Arpi is mainly used for irrigation and hydropower production. In 2009, a national park was created to protect the rich flora and fauna of the lake. It is home to more than 100 species of birds and 670 species of plants. Many of them are under threat of extinction and are included in the "Red book." This park is an excellent place for ecotourism lovers.
Lake in Armenia #5 Akna
The lake is located on the border of the Gegharkunik and the Kotayk provinces, at the height of 3032 meters above sea level.
The surface area is 0.8 km², and the maximum depth is 15 meters. Its water is fresh and sweet. Akna, like a mirror, reflects the surrounding mountains and the blue sky. We recommend this place to all hiking lovers.
Lake in Armenia #6 Parz
Lake Parz is a small lake located in Dilijan, at the altitude of 1400 meters above the sea. It is surrounded by Dilijan National Park which was created for environmental protection.
This place is like heaven. It is beautiful in all seasons. It's forbidden to swim in Lake Parz; however, you can spend a great time there, because the view of the lake is stunning. It's a beautiful spot to enjoy peace and silence. You can organize a picnic there. The lake also offers tourists boats, fishing, camping, etc.
Lake in Armenia #7 Black
Lake Black is located in the Syunik province, at a towering height of 2650 meters above the sea level. It is a freshwater lake.
The total surface area is 2km², and the depth reaches up to 7.5 meters. The water of the lake is used for irrigation. In 2001, there was built a reserve for the protection of the natural ecosystem of the lake. It is one of Armenia's 26 sanctuaries and occupies a territory of 240 hectares.
Lake in Armenia #8 Yerevan
This is an artificial lake which is located in Yerevan. Moreover, it's not a lake but a reservoir which was built In Hrazdan Gorge. Unfortunately, the lake has turned into a huge rubbish dump. Swimming, fishing, and boating are strictly forbidden in the lake as it's very dangerous.
As you see, there are many beautiful lakes in Armenia which will not leave anyone indifferent. Most of the lakes are popular tourist destinations for not only local people but also for the guests. Don't forget to visit those places, when you land in our country. There are many tours in Armenia that will organize an unforgettable trip so that you can discover the hidden gems of our nature.
Published May 2, 2019
Article by Ani Shahbazyan
