Ditavank, also known as Ditavan and Ditvan, is located on the borderline of Vayots Dzor and Gegharkunik provinces, 6.5 kilometers north of the village Yelpin. From the southern slope of the mountain is initiating Yelpin, the right tributary of the river Arpa, and the Sariaghbyur and Mariam creeks are situated on the south-eastern slope. Alpine steppes are stretching along the steppes of Ditavank. The height of Ditavan is 2835 meters. Furthermore, Ditavan is considered to be a holy place for the villagers and there is a chapel situated on peak of the mountain.
Ditvan mountain
The legend of Ditavan
Locals claim that there is just one day in a year when Lake Van becomes visible from the top of the mountain, that is why it is called Ditavan which is translated as “to contemplate Van”.
With the help of GPS we’re trying to figure out where the lake Van is located
We have headed to the village of Yelpin. It turns out that all of the locals are aware of this story. Moreover, an old woman wanted to convince us that from the top of Ditavank you can contemplate not only Lake Van but also the whole Western Armenia. Although it seems unreasonable, after observing the map we’ve realized that it’s not beyond the bounds of possibility.
Although after climbing the mountain we could not see Lake Van, we could enjoy the mesmerizing view of Armenian Highland and communicate with locals.
Article by Tigran Shahbazyan
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