The Arpa (Armenian: Արփա, Azerbaijani: Arpaçay) is a river that flows through Armenia and Azerbaijan's Nakhichevan exclave. It originates in the Vayots Dzor province (marz) of Armenia and is as a left tributary of the Aras. It runs through many cities and towns and is mainly known for its beauty. Spandaryan Reservoir lies on the river.
The Noravank church and canyon, as well as the Areni wine region, are in the wrong direction, but quite worthwhile. Yeghegnadzor has a few monuments in the surrounding area, but some are harder to access. Boloraberd, Spitakavor, Mozrov Caves, and such are not so easily accessible. Outside Yeghegnadzor are the ruins of Glazdor University and the adjoining monastery. Around Vayk there are restaurants along the river which consist of terraces built on its bank set in beautiful surroundings. The Arpa valley continues south until a number of hairpin bends mark the steep ascent to the "Gates of Zangezur" monument, marking the highest point of the road, and start of the descent towards Sisian.
Coordinates: 39°28′07″N 44°56′49″E / 39.46861°N 44.94694°E