Jermuk is one of the spa towns of Armenia, located in the Vayots Dzor region, about a 3-hour drive from Yerevan. This is one of our popular destinations not only among tourists but also among the locals, as the city is famous for its healing hot springs and mineral waters.
Jermuk attracts visitors with its fresh air, waterfalls, artificial lakes, and forested hills. The town is situated about 2,080 metres above sea level, with a population of around 4,000 people. The city is also a modern center for numerous international chess tournaments.
The name of the town derives from the Armenian word “Jermuk,” meaning warm mineral spring. The name was first mentioned in the 13th century by historian Stepanos Orbelian. In the 16th century, Jermuk, alongside Eastern Armenia, fell under the rule of the Safavid Persian Empire.
Between the 16th–17th centuries, the region became a battlefield between Turkic and Iranian tribes, as a result of which many significant monuments were destroyed and the population was displaced.
In 1828, after the Russo-Persian War, the territory of the region, including Jermuk, became part of the Russian Empire, under the rule of which Jermuk experienced significant growth and development. Later, in the 1860s, the town was renovated by the Orbelian princes of Syunik.
Between 1918 and 1920, Jermuk was a part of the short-lived Republic of Armenia. After the Sovietization of Armenia, Jermuk and the surrounding territories remained a part of Soviet Armenia.
The town started to develop gradually, and at some point in 1980, the population reached 9,000, but during the post-independence crisis, it decreased to around 5,000. However, in recent years, due to many development plans, Jermuk has become a popular resort and winter tourism destination.
Among the most visited places in Jermuk is the Mineral Water Gallery, also known as the Spring Fountain. Visitors can taste natural healing spring water of different temperatures, ranging from 30°C to 50°C (86°F to 122°F).
Another must-see destination is the Jermuk Waterfall, called Mermaid’s Hair. The waterfall is 72 metres high and truly resembles long, curly hair as it flows into a deep, beautiful gorge.
The center of the town is very colourful, with artificial lakes, chess tables, cafés, and a cable car for those who want to enjoy panoramic views of Jermuk.
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