Acher River

The Acher River is one of the natural landmarks of the Haghpat Gorge and the Lori Province. It is this river that has shaped the scenic and attractive road leading to the village of Haghpat. Acher plays an important role in the region’s ecosystem. Within the Haghpat section, the river is also known by the names Zhivank, Sherek, and Haghpat.

Source and Basin

The river originates on the slopes of Halvanersar Mountain in the Gugark Range. Its length is about 15 km. Flowing along the eastern foot of Surb Luys Mountain and through the Haghpat Gorge, it enters the Debed River from the right. Acher is a fast-flowing mountain river, and its basin is almost entirely covered with forests. It passes through rocky landscapes and wooded ravines, often forming small waterfalls.

In spring the river becomes powerful and can carry away large stones. In summer, when precipitation decreases, it becomes calmer and shallower.

In the Acher River basin, not far from the village of Haghpat, grows the yew tree (Taxus baccata), a species listed in Armenia’s Red Book. Along the riverbanks one can also encounter oak, poplar, beech, maple, elm, and other tree species.

Historical and Cultural Monuments

Numerous cultural monuments lie along the river. In the Haghpat Gorge stands the 13th-century Jraghatsadzor Bridge built over the river. A medieval water mill of the Haghpat Monastery once operated nearby. The steep cliff above the valley contains the Lasti Ayr cave complex. On the left bank, atop a high rocky ridge, is the Kayanberd Fortress, and on the right bank are the Zarni and Parni caves.

How to Visit

The river can be viewed via the Kayanberd Trail, which starts at the Jraghatsadzor Bridge and continues upward toward the fortress. For a longer route, you can follow the Haghpat–Tsaghkashat Trail, whose final 3 km run entirely along the Acher River.

Warning

If you rest near the river, strictly follow fire-safety rules — the area is surrounded by forests.
Swimming is not recommended, especially in rocky sections, as wet stones can be extremely slippery.