Bekh - Halidzor Fortress - Vahanavank - Shgharshik / Legends Trail of Syunik / Armenia

The 𝐁𝐞𝐤𝐡 - 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐳𝐨𝐫 - 𝐕𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐥 is a forested trekking route that is part of the Legends Trail in Syunik, Armenia.

This picturesque route passes through forests and leads from Bekh ( Բեխ ) to the historic Halidzor Fortress ( Հալիձորի բերդ ) and Vahanavank Monastery ( Վահանավանք ), offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐥 of Syunik is a scenic hiking route that winds through the breathtaking landscapes of southern Armenia, rich in history, folklore, and diverse nature. Offering lush forests, rugged mountains, and ancient cultural sites, it provides an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

This trail is also part of the 𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑐𝑎𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑎𝑛 𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑙, which stretches from north to south across Armenia.

▶Distance from Yerevan:
300 km 5 hr

▶Recommended for: Hikers who enjoy long panoramic hikes through wooded landscapes, as well as those trekking the Legends Trail or the Transcaucasian Trail.

◤Description of the Trail

The trail is marked, but due to a lack of annual maintenance, it can be challenging to navigate without GPS

You begin the hike with a 600-meter descent, followed by a slight ascent and a smooth walk until 1.4 km.

After 1.4 km, the trail starts gaining altitude. At 1.9 km, be careful not to miss the left turn. The ascent continues until 3 km, followed by a 115-meter gentle descent until 3.9 km.

From 3.9 km to 5.8 km, you will encounter a steep ascent to the highest point at 1355 metres.

At 3.9 km, you'll see a signpost. To visit Halidzor Fortress, continue straight for 400 meters before returning to the signpost to turn right toward Vahanavank Monastery.

Beyond the signpost, a narrow footpath leads through the forest, where some parallel paths may be confusing. At the highest point (1375 m), at 5,7 km of the trail, There is a tricky 100-meter section where the path disappears. Be careful not to stray off the trail.
From this point, the trail descends for 2 km until it reaches the main highway at 10.7 km

At 6.8 km, the trail joins a jeep track, making navigation easier.

At 8.2 km, you exit the forest onto a paved road. Hike 400 meters along this road to reach Vahanavank Monastery at 8.6 km.

After Vahanavank, if you wish to continue toward the highway or Shgharshik village ( Շղարշիկ ), there is a small footpath next to the monastery. You can either:

1. Hike 300 meters on the footpath to join the paved road as we did.
2. Walk back to the asphalt road and follow it for 600 meters to the same point.
From 8.8 km, hike 2 km on the paved road to reach the main highway.

If heading to Shgharshik village, be cautious when crossing the highway, as there is no pedestrian crossing. After crossing, ascend 1 km on a damaged asphalt road until you reach the Shgharshik village signpost.

𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞
You can end your hike at Vahanavank Monastery unless you plan to stay in Shgharshik village or continue on the Legends Trail or Transcaucasian Trail. If ending at Vahanavank, the total hike distance is 8.6 km.

The trail is 𝐤𝐢𝐝-𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲, as it is free of difficult or exposed sections.

◤ Can I shorten the trail by car?
The first 8.5 km of the hike consists mainly of a footpath with some jeep track sections. Only the last 3 km are accessible by car, as the paved road did not exist when the trail was originally designed. You can complete the hike at Vahanavank and continue to Shgharshik by vehicle.

◤ Which direction to go ?
There is no significant difference in which direction you start, as the altitude gain and loss are nearly the same on both sides. However, starting from Shgharshik may offer a slightly smoother ascent, though the difference is minimal.
If you're hiking the TCT or Legends Trail, it depends on whether you start from the north or south.

≋ Water Sources

Water is available at the beginning of the trail in Bekh village, around 1.3 km into the hike, and again at 8.8 km after Vahanavank Monastery.

◤When to Go?
Half of the trail is shaded by trees, making it one of the best options even on hot, sunny days.

▶ Doable

The trail is open from mid-March to November. After late November, snow may partially or fully block it until March, depending on the season. However, it remains accessible for those who enjoy snow hikes. In some seasons, the trail may remain mostly clear.

▶ Recommended

𝐴𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑙, 𝑀𝑎𝑦: The blooming season starts in mid-April and peaks by mid-May. However, this period is also rainy, making the paths muddy and slippery after rainfall
𝐽𝑢𝑛𝑒: The area is lush, and temperatures are pleasant, although it can get hot on the lower trails.
𝐽𝑢𝑙𝑦 - 𝑀𝑖𝑑 𝑆𝑒𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟: The surroundings stay green despite the driest conditions of the year. While the weather can be quite stuffy, much of the hike is in shaded areas.
𝑀𝑖𝑑 𝑆𝑒𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 - 𝑂𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑏𝑒𝑟: A spectacular display of fall colors peaks in mid-October, accompanied by comfortable hiking temperatures. However, after October rains, the trail can become muddy and slippery.

▶ Not Recommended:
𝑀𝑎𝑟𝑐ℎ, 𝑁𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟: The trees are bare, and there is little greenery, though the temperature can still be comfortable for hiking.

∝FAUNA

Syunik region is rich in wildlife.
Most of the trails on the Legends Trail are village-to-village routes. However, this doesn't mean you won't encounter wildlife along the way. Bears and jackals inhabit the area, so be cautious and make noise to avoid surprising them, especially when hiking alone or in small groups.
There are also venomous snakes in the area, though they typically avoid paths and flee due to the vibrations of footsteps. However, it's always best to watch your step for safety.

◤ Where to Stay?

This is my experience while hiking the Legends Trail. If you come across reliable homestays in Bekh, Shgharshik or Kapan, please let me know so I can include them here for other hikers."

𝐾𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑛 𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦

Finding a homestay in Kapan won't be difficult, as it's a well-developed city with hotels and restaurants.

Lernagorts hotel
(A budget-friendly hotel from the Soviet era, located in the city center)
Contact: +374285 28039

Three ways hotel
(A less budget-friendly but comfortable hotel)
Contact: +37494509010


𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐳𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬
𝐸𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑆𝑦𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑘 𝐷𝑒𝑓𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑠

Halidzor Fortress is a Stronghold in the Armenian Highlands.
It was built in the 17th century on a hill overlooking the Voghji River at an elevation of 1,051 meters in Syunik. It is located 5 km from the center of Kapan. Also known as David Bek's fortress, it was strongly connected to his history.
With its strong walls and remote location, Halidzor played a key role in defending Syunik. Today, it stands as a symbol of national pride, especially for the people of Kapan. The people of Syunik have a deep history and remain dedicated to protecting their land while hoping for a peaceful future.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑂𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑛 𝑆𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑦

Halidzor was originally built in 17th century as a nunnery but later became a fortress for the noble Melik Parsadanian family. The first written mention of the Halidzor Convent dates back to 1653.

The Parsadanian family was one of the most powerful in Kapan. "Melik" was a hereditary Armenian noble title, and their lineage is believed to trace back to Duke Dzagik of Syunik. One of their most famous descendants was the Armenian commander David Bek.

In 1723, David Bek declared Halidzor the center of Kapan and strengthened it into an unbreakable fortress. After the fall of Davit Bek's principality, Halidzor became the hereditary estate of the Melik Parsadanian family

𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐭 𝐁𝐞𝐤

18𝑡ℎ 𝐶𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑦 𝐴𝑟𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑖𝑎𝑛 𝑀𝑖𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑎𝑟𝑦 𝐿𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑟. 𝑤ℎ𝑜 𝑙𝑒𝑑 𝑎 𝑟𝑒𝑏𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑎𝑔𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑡 𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑖𝑎𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑂𝑡𝑡𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑟𝑢𝑙𝑒, 𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑆𝑦𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑘 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐴𝑟𝑡𝑠𝑎𝑘ℎ.

The history of Halidzor Fortress is deeply intertwined with the legendary Armenian commander David Bek of the Parsadanian dynasty. A prominent leader of the liberation movement, David Bek utilized Halidzor Fortress as both a military stronghold and a strategic base during the 18th century. Alongside his chief lieutenant and successor, Mkhitar Sparapet, he transformed the fortress into the central headquarters and administrative hub for Syunik in their struggle against the Ottoman Empire and Persian forces.

One of the most significant events in the fortress's history occurred in 1727, during the Battle of Halidzor. Despite being vastly outnumbered, David Bek and his small detachment achieved a remarkable victory over the large Turkish army. This triumph allowed David Bek to liberate the regions of Great Kapan one after another, marking a pivotal moment in the resistance movement.

However, in 1729, the Turkish army returned to besiege Halidzor Fortress. Under the leadership of Mkhitar Sparapet, the defenders put up a fierce resistance. Tragically, the enemy eventually breached the fortress, massacring those inside and reducing its walls to ruins. This marked the end of Halidzor's role as a military stronghold.

David Bek himself met his end within the walls of the fortress. After falling ill in 1728, he passed away and was reportedly buried near the fortress walls. According to legend, his tombstone bears a single flower carving on its underside—a deliberate measure to conceal his resting place from enemies and protect his legacy.

Today, the ruins of Halidzor Fortress stand as a testament to the courage and resilience of David Bek, Mkhitar Sparapet, and their fighters, who fought valiantly to defend their homeland against overwhelming odds.

𝐴𝑟𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑡𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒

The walls of Halidzor Fortress form a quadrangle, enclosing a church and a chapel within its structure. Also known as Halidzor Convent, the fortress features several pyramidal structures and is surrounded by a protective wall. Just outside the fortress, the copper ore and foundry of the Parsadanian family once stood, highlighting the region's historical significance in mining and metallurgy.

To the north of the fortress lies a four-column domed sepulcher dating back to the 17th century. Nearby, the Church of Saint Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother) stands as a testament to the site's spiritual importance. Originally constructed in the 17th century, the church was rebuilt in 1723 under the direction of David Bek. Adjacent to the northern and southern sides of the church are several dwellings, while a refectory is located to the north, providing a glimpse into the daily life of the fortress's inhabitants.

One of the most remarkable features of Halidzor Fortress was its secret tunnel, which stretched 500 meters to the Voghji River. This ingenious engineering feat allowed the fortress's defenders to access fresh water during sieges, playing a crucial role in their ability to withstand prolonged attacks. It was one of the key reasons David Bek and his men could hold their ground against the Turkish siege. Today, the tunnel is largely covered, and parts of it lie in ruins.

In 2006, restoration and reconstruction efforts began at Halidzor, aiming to preserve its historical and architectural legacy. These efforts were completed in 2010, ensuring that the fortress remains a symbol of resilience and a window into Armenia's rich past.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐵𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑙𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝐻𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑑𝑧𝑜𝑟

The Battle of Halidzor ( Հալիձորի ճակատամարտ ) took place in the spring of 1727 at Halidzor Fortress, located in what is now the Syunik region of Armenia, near the modern-day city of Kapan. It was a pivotal confrontation between the Armenian forces, led by the legendary commander David Bek, and the Ottoman army.

In the spring of 1727, pursued by Ottoman forces, David Bek and his followers sought refuge within the walls of Halidzor Fortress. The Ottomans laid siege to the fortress, but they faced relentless guerrilla-style attacks from small Armenian units operating from within. David Bek's comrades-in-arms, Mkhitar and Ter Avetis, played a crucial role in boosting the morale of the defenders. They rallied the men with stirring words: "Take heart, do not be afraid, follow us! If our end has come, let us die bravely. For it is better to perish with courage outside these walls than to witness the death of our families and friends within."

Between 1723 and 1727, David Bek, along with 300 soldiers, 13 bishops, and three priests, successfully defended the fortress against an invading Ottoman army of 70,000 troops during a grueling seven-day siege. The strategic defensive position of Halidzor gave Bek's forces a significant advantage, but the prolonged siege left the defenders exhausted and low on supplies. Facing seemingly insurmountable odds, David Bek made a bold decision: he led a daring and seemingly suicidal charge down the hill toward the Ottoman forces. This unexpected assault struck fear into the enemy, causing the Turks to flee in disarray. According to accounts, the Ottomans suffered heavy losses, with 12,000 soldiers reportedly left dead on the battlefield.

Despite this heroic victory, David Bek's life came to an end in 1728 when he succumbed to illness. After his death, the Ottoman army returned and eventually captured Halidzor. They offered terms to the defenders, promising to spare the lives of the battalion and residents in exchange for control of the fortress.

𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐿𝑒𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑑 𝑜𝑓 𝐻𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑑𝑧𝑜𝑟

A secret 500-meter-long passage once connected the Voghji River to Halidzor Fortress, providing a vital water supply to its inhabitants. This ingenious underground system was a lifeline during times of siege, ensuring the fortress could withstand prolonged attacks.

According to legend, during one such siege, the troops of David Bek found themselves surrounded by enemy forces. The Persian shah, unable to breach the fortress walls, grew increasingly frustrated. Eventually, the secret clay pipes carrying water from the river to the fortress were discovered. The enemy cut off the water supply, leaving David Bek's troops in a dire situation. Despite this setback, the defenders of Halidzor demonstrated remarkable resilience, holding their ground as long as they could.

This legend highlights the ingenuity and determination of David Bek and his fighters, who relied on both strategic engineering and unwavering courage to defend their homeland.

*𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑦 𝑁𝑜𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑒:
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