Kh'ndzoresk Canyon, Syunik Region

"Khntsoresk" © 1999, Jack Majarian

Kh'ndzoresk, near Goris is a great place for hiking and spelunking. There are a very large number of caves, although most of them are rather small. The fun part is that there are many signs of past settlement throughout the valley which are just waiting for discovery. You will see that many of the caves have been carved out by man, you will find the ruins of a village, a beautiful ancient church, very old tombstones, etc. A guide may be helpful if you have no idea where to start and don't have more than an afternoon to explore. The canyon you are in has pretty interesting rock formations including some resembling huge fingers where we started our expedition. There is a spring here and it is one of many perfect spots for picnics. It is a pretty green place and there is a stream running through the canyon. There is a lot of stinging nettle, so wear jeans.

"Khntsoresk - Countless caves to explore. Small church in foreground." © 1999, Jack Majarian

"Khndzoresk - Interior view of a cave" © 2000 Raffi Kojian, All Rights Reserved