TOURINFO-Kalavan, a modest untouched village dashing towards an exceptional success, is located in Gegharkunik Region, Armenia. Isolated from civilization – no motorways, no shops, no luxury hotels, and restaurants – Kalavan is a top eco, adventure and archaeological tourism attraction in Armenia.
“Wonderful nature. Hospitable and clever people. Heaven starts from Kalavan!”
The nature and history intertwined have lavished a towering heritage on the village, enabling its residents to set forth on the journey towards self-sustaining. The village is 1600 meters above sea level. It has graveyards and Stone Age outdoor stations in the surroundings. In addition, the forest is home to beautiful wildlife – squirrels, least weasel, roe deer, wildcat, badger, etc. The archaeological monument Kalavan 1 dates back to the 14th millennium, and Kalavan 2 is more than 34 thousand years old.
“Kalavan is a wonder which has to be visited!”
The credit for pioneering this journey towards a positive result goes to Robert Ghukasyan, who chased his dream of enlivening the fading village of Kalavan, which had only a hundred residents. The development model Robert offered was graciously welcomed by World Vision Armenia and since the very beginning to present the organization has backed the initiative. The model also became an economic engine for Kalavan and the surrounding villages.
“Do you want to get distracted from the dumb civilization? This place is for you!”
Due to the selfless efforts of the “Time Land” non-governmental educational foundation functioning since 2012, the village miraculously evolved into a blooming spot becoming a magnet for national and international tourists, nature-loving new residents, private entrepreneurs, scientists from both Armenia and other countries, donor organizations, adventurers, etc. Despite many hardships, the local residents refused any support and sponsorship of major entrepreneurs of Armenia, acting as a self-governing village and keeping it untouched.
“Time Land” educational foundation offers its visitors a fantastic and unforgettable journey to the Stone Age. The visitors hike through the forest, appearing in an environment completely isolated from civilization, where they should act as ancient people.
The educational programs and simulation games help the participants learn and experience lighting a fire in the wild with materials available at hand, making hunting tools of the ancient inhabitants with the help of stones, making a hut in the forest and the like. They can also take part in archaeological expeditions, take part in archery competitions, go hiking in the mountains while learning about the history and wildlife of the local area, etc. These activities are designed for all age groups.
In 2014 the organization launched the “No to Plastic” initiative, which was crowned with success. The organization not only taught people to stop throwing plastic into nature but also cleaned the territory from the detrimental trash. Overall, the lack of a gas system, proper energy system, etc. opens the doors before the local community to find renewable and environment-friendly solutions.
Due to the supporting organization and EU funded “EU for Tourism: Community-Based Rural Tourism and Cultural Events in Gegharkunik and Vayots Dzor Marzes” project in line with the selfless efforts of the local people, Kalavan started renovations recently.
The archaeological
park will open its doors in front of its visitors April onwards, offering a wide range of activities.
You can find the park on Facebook searching “Kalavan – Time Land”. If any questions, you can also call 093 367696.
