Trchkan Waterfall, Shirak Travel Guide

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Discover Trchkan Waterfall: Armenia's tallest vertical drop, where nature's beauty and leaping trout create a mesmerizing spectacle.

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Trchkan Waterfall

Trchkan Waterfall, also known as Chichkhan Waterfall, is one of Armenia's tallest waterfalls, boasting a 23-meter vertical drop. Located on the Chichkhan River, it's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a refreshing escape. The waterfall gets its name from the Armenian word for 'jumping,' inspired by the trout that leap upstream during mating season.

A brief summary to Trchkan Waterfall

W487+MR9, Dzorashen, AM

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Trchkan Waterfall.

The road to Trchkan Waterfall can be rough, so consider a 4x4 vehicle or a taxi willing to navigate the terrain.
Visit between March and June for the strongest water flow due to snowmelt.
In winter, the waterfall freezes, offering a unique and beautiful perspective, but be prepared for icy conditions.
Bring waterproof boots and extra socks if you plan to hike to the waterfall, as you may need to cross the river several times.

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Explore Trchkan Waterfall on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Trchkan Waterfall, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From Gyumri, a taxi to Trchkan Waterfall costs approximately 4,000 AMD. From Vanadzor, the fare is around 4,700 AMD. Be sure to confirm that the driver is willing to drive on the rough road to the waterfall, and a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
Hiking

An 8km hike from Shirakamut Village through the Chichkhan River Gorge will take you to Trchkan Waterfall. Be prepared to cross the river multiple times, so waterproof boots and extra socks are essential. The terrain is moderate.

Discover more about Trchkan Waterfall

Trchkan Waterfall, nestled on the border of the Shirak and Lori regions, is a captivating natural monument in Armenia. Fed by the Chichkhan River, which originates from the Shirak Mountain Range, the waterfall stands at an impressive 23 meters, making it one of the country's highest waterfalls with a vertical drop. The waterfall is also known as Chichkhan Waterfall, with locals sometimes calling it Chran, which describes the sound of flowing water.The name 'Trchkan' translates to 'jumping' in Armenian, a nod to the remarkable sight of trout leaping up and over the falls during their spawning migration. The surrounding area offers picnic spots and trails for exploring different perspectives of the falls. In winter, the waterfall transforms into a stunning icy spectacle, attracting ice climbers.Designated as a hydrological monument in 2008 and a protected area in 2011, Trchkan Waterfall faced a threat in 2011 when a hydropower station was proposed. However, environmental activists successfully prevented its construction, preserving the natural beauty of the site.