Hankavan: Mountain Climate, Mineral Water and Waterfalls

When looking for hotels in Hankavan, choosing this destination brings together a mountain setting, mineral water and the landscapes of the upper Marmarik. Hankavan Resort is located in the Marmarik Gorge; waterfalls lie west of the village, and historical landmarks can be found in the village. Nature-related features range from a hydrological protected area to a waterfall trail considered difficult. Cultural points of interest include the 19th-century Greek church and a cemetery beside the road to Hankavan.

Mountain Setting and Protected Area

Hankavan Resort lies at an altitude of about 1,900 metres above sea level in the Marmarik Gorge. The mountain slopes are covered with forests and shrubs. The Hankavan State Hydrological Protected Area extends along the slopes of the Tsaghkunyats Mountains at elevations of 1,947 to 2,370 metres and covers 5,202.86 hectares. It follows the upper Marmarik catchment area from the springs to the hydrological monitoring point near Hankavan. Protected features include the aquatic ecosystem of the upper Marmarik, mineral spring outlets, and living and non-living natural monuments.

A catchment area is the area from which water drains into a body of water. The elevation figures refer to different geographical units: about 1,900 metres describes the resort’s location, while 1,947 to 2,370 metres is the range of the protected area. This distinguishes the elevation of the place where you stay from the extent of the protected area.

Climate and Resort Profile

The resort’s climate is considered mild. Long-term average temperatures are 16 to 18 °C in July and August and −7 °C in January. Over the course of the year, the summer months are therefore noticeably warmer than January—a useful guide when weighing up when to travel. The resort’s main therapeutic resources are considered to be its mountain climate and Hankavan mineral water.

Waterfalls and Tour Planning

Waterfalls on tributaries of the upper Marmarik lie about one kilometre west of Hankavan’s western outskirts, near the former Ararat children’s holiday home. Several falls, up to five metres high, are close together on a right-bank tributary. The highest waterfall in the cascade is considered a scenic geological natural monument.

Reaching the large waterfall requires a 300-metre ascent along a path beside the tributary. The path is considered difficult; a guide is recommended, and conditions may vary seasonally. For planning purposes, the ascent and the waterfall height are two different measurements: the ascent is 300 metres, while the waterfalls are up to five metres high. Take the difficulty and seasonal conditions into account when planning this trip.

Road Section to the Former Ararat Holiday Home

A road section to the former Ararat children’s holiday home was described in 2022 as fully paved and as relevant to hikers, cyclists and motorcyclists. Check road conditions before setting out.

Culture in Hankavan

The 19th-century Greek church is regarded locally as one of Hankavan’s notable attractions. A cemetery is located beside the road leading into the village. Together, the church and cemetery are cultural landmarks distinct from the natural features of the upper Marmarik.

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