Vorotan is the Syunik’s pulse
Despite the fact that Armenia does not have a direct access to the sea, there are enough large rivers that run along the small territory of the country. One of them is the Vorotan River, which is known for its beautiful gorge.
The mountain river Vorotan with the length of 179 km originates in the Artsakh highlands, from Davagyoz Mountain and feeds the large Spandarian Reservoir. It also feeds the historical Angeghakot village, which lies north-west of Sisian and passes through several deep canyons – Vorotan gorge as well as by Stone Age cave-settlements and medieval castles, monasteries and villages. The river gets wider in the plain of Sisian and divides the city into northern and southern parts. Vorotan Gorge and the Vorotan River can be truly called the most beautiful and unique places in Armenia. In the valley of the river, in a small area, the most important historical sites are concentrated, such as the monastery complex Tatev, the Tatever ropeway, the Devil’s Bridge, the Sisavan church, the David Beck fortress and natural attractions. The pearl of the Vorotan River is Shaki Waterfall of 18 meters height, which is located in the west of Sisian town. The road starches along the river, crossing the most amazing places of the country, it is popular among lovers of hiking, while the slopes of the gorge are ideal for rock climbing.
The river is most appealing to the east of Sisian. The colorful view of the amazingly deep canyons, sharp top mountains and island-fortresses astonish every onlooker. In spring the Canyon of Vorotan River is one place lovers of inflatable boat sports should pay a visit to.
Furthermore, the river passes by Vorotnavank, the Fortress of David Bek and the warm waters of Vorotan and feeds Shambi Reservoir. The river then flows through the miraculous canyon right below Tatev and reaches below the huge hydroelectric plant.
Three hydropower stations and reservoirs are built on the Vorotan River. In addition, a 22-kilometer tunnel has been built to deliver water to Lake Sevan. The tunnel was built to raise the water level in the lake.
