Ararat Province Outdoor activities

The tour invites to explore Armenia's most captivating and culturally significant sites. It begins from the ancient Temple of Garni. Built in the 1st century AD, this temple is the only surviving Greco-Roman temple in Armenia, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Next, visitors will uncover the Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into the mountainside, famous for its unique architecture, with many chambers and chapels carved directly from the rock. The journey continues to the "Symphony of Stones," * an extraordinary natural rock formation in the Garni gorge that resembles a grand organ. Participants will then enjoy a master class in baking traditional Armenian lavash, recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage. You can select different options for the tour and visit extra stops, such as Lake Sevan and Sevanavank Monastery (lavash baking not included), or the Khor Virap Monastery and Azat Reservoir.

Khor Virap Monastery is located about an hour’s drive away from the capital Yerevan, and offers an amazing view of Armenia’s defining symbol – the majestic Ararat. Khor Virap translates as deep dungeon, and it was built on the place of the former royal prison, located on the historical site of Artashat. The Monastery is also one of the most sacred spots for Armenians around the world. This tour will also take you to the Areni Cave (Bird’s Cave). In 2008, archeologists discovered several of the world’s oldest artifacts, including a leather shoe and a winery here. Another place that can’t be missed is Noravank. It is one of the gems of medieval Armenian architecture, nestled high among the stunning brick-red cliffs at the end of the Gnishik Canyon. Conclude your day with a visit to the charming village of Areni, famous for its winemaking tradition. Here, you’ll visit a local winery to taste a selection of fine Armenian wines, including the renowned Areni variety.

1. Garni temple, one of the most famous historical and architectural monuments among tourists, is located in Kotayk province. It is the only structure preserved in Armenia from the pagan period, dedicated to the god Mihr. 2. Before reaching the temple, we will have a stop on the way to Charents Arch, from where a wonderful view of Mount Ararat opens. 3. Then we will visit Geghard Monastery (Ayrivank), where according to the legend, from the XIII century the spear with which Christ was pierced was kept here. 4. As a part of the tour, we will visit the Azat River gorge, where we will see the “Symphony of Stones՛”, a miracle of nature. The natural monument, also known as the ՛՛Basalt Organ՛՛, is famous for its magnificent, seemingly artificial rocks. 5. The familiarization tour ends with a lavash master class, where you will see how the famous Armenian bread, lavash, is baked.

Explore Armenia’s cultural and natural treasures on this enriching day tour. Begin with a stop at Charents Arch for panoramic views of Mount Ararat, followed by a visit to the iconic Garni Temple, the only surviving pagan temple in the region. Descend into the Garni Gorge to witness the Symphony of Stones, a breathtaking natural formation of basalt columns. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, partially carved into the mountainside, showcasing remarkable medieval Armenian architecture. Take in the stunning scenery of Azat Canyon, known for its dramatic cliffs and rugged beauty. On the way back, enjoy a pass-by view of the legendary Khor Virap Monastery, with its famous backdrop of Mount Ararat. This tour perfectly blends history, spirituality, and nature, offering a memorable glimpse into Armenia’s rich heritage.

Start the tour at 10 AM with pick up from the local operator's office in Yerevan. Then, set off for Khor Virap, the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia. When you arrive, visit the monastery and learn about how it was built in the 17th century. Admire the picturesque views of the Biblical Mount Ararat. Next, head over to Birds Cave situated on the left bank of the Areni River. Explore the three halls, a large part of which still are yet to been explored. Learn about the archaeological findings which have been recovered from the cave including dried grapes, rope, dishes, clothing, and the oldest leather shoe in the world. Find out more about the ancient winery, which is believed to have existed since 4000 BC.   After this, stop for a lunch break at a cozy restaurant in a spectacular natural setting. Choose between 3 different meal options before arrival and pay on the spot - please note the cost of lunch is not included in the tour price. Then, learn a bit more about Hin Areni wine with a visit to the village winery. Enjoy a tour and tasting before admiring the architecture of the St Astvatsatsin Church. Then, drive along a narrow road flanked by impressive rock formations and numerous caves. Arrive at Noravank Monastery, which is one of the brightest examples of 13th-century Armenian architecture. Visit the churches of St Karapet, St Gregory the Illuminator, and St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) a two-storey church, admiring the incredible architecture and sculptural work. Finally, return back to the meeting point in Yerevan where your tour concludes.

Explore the history and culture of Armenia on this day trip from Yerevan. Visit some of the most important landmarks in Armenia, including Mount Ararat, Khor Virap, and the Geghard Monastery complex. Make your first stop at the Khor Virap monastery and see firsthand from where Christianity in Armenia originates. Next on the route is the only pagan temple in Armenia – Garni, dating back to the 1st century. Then visit the 13th-century Geghard monastic complex, partially carved in the rock and included in the Unesco World Cultural Heritage List. Finally, see the lavash (Armenian thin bread) baking process and try some fresh out of the oven.

Start your day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Yerevan. Enjoy a short meet and greet with your driver before setting off to your first destination. Visit Echmiadzin, the famous cathedral that legend says was chosen by Jesus Christ for this important church to be built. Admire its beautiful architecture and discover why it is considered the residence of Sumpreme Catholicos of all Aremnians. Continue to the magnificent Zvartnots Temple, a site of historical significance that was constructed in the 7th century before continuing on to the pagan temple Garni. Marvel at a temple built in the 1st century AD, dedicated to the sun god Mithra. Take a short drive to a temple situated not far away and visit the Monastery Geghard, built in the 4th century by The First Armenian Catholicos - Gregory the Illuminator. The name of the monastery originates from the spear of the Roman soldier who pierced the body of Jesus Christ which is presented in the museum of Echmiadzin. Finish your day in Khor Virap monastery where spectacular views of the Ararat Mountain await. Climb down the infamous deep pit using a narrow ladder to truly experience the historical sites atmosphere.

Experience the beauty and culture of Armenia with this amazing full-day guided tour, including Tsaghkadzor ski resort and Lake Sevan. Enjoy a comfortable ride from Yerevan to the stunning countryside of Tsaghkadzor, Kecharis Monastery, Lake Sevan, and Sevanavank Monastery. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views, rich history, and unique culture of Armenia as you explore these wonderful sites. Don't miss out - book your Tsaghkadzor & Lake Sevan Guided Tour today!

Your tour begins at 8:30AM from the local operator's head office in Yerevan. From there, depart for the southern part of Armenia, beginning with Khor Virap. Khor Virap is the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia, as it is directly connected with the adoption of Christianity in the country. As a state religion Christianity in Armenia was adopted in 301 due to endeavours of Saint Gregory the Illuminator. Before converting King Tridates the 3rd to Christianity, Saint Gregory was imprisoned in the dungeon under the present day church of Khor Virap monastery was built in the 17th Century. From the monastery one can admire the stunning view of the Biblical Mount Ararat. Passing a narrow road surrounded by rocks of a hundred caves, you can then discover the Noravank Monastery. It is enshrined with fine architectural solutions, with its luxurious embellishments forming one of the brightest examples of Armenian architecture of the 13th Century. Noravank consists of St. Karapet, St. Gregory the Illuminator's churches, and St. Astvatsatsin, a two-story church which is notable for its ideal constructive and sculptural work. Take a break for lunch in a nice cozy restaurant surrounded by nature. There you can can choose a meal from 3 available options, payable on the spot. The next stop is the Tatev Monastery, which used to be wealthiest medieval monastery in Armenia. Besides being a religious center, it was also the important strategical center of the Syunik Kingdom. Being situated on a naturally defended place, the monastery has always been an impregnable fortress.  Take the aerial tramway called the "Wings of Tatev", a 5.7-kilometer rope-way which was built within 11 months. It passes through a deep gorge of the Vorotan River, and is covered with lush forests. The tramway is supported by three towers between its two terminals, one terminal is on a hill overlooking the village of Halidzor, and the other is near the Tatev Monastery. Following the rope-way, your tour concludes with drop-off back at the operator's head office in Yerevan.

1. Tatev Monastery To have an accurate idea of the culture, architecture and history of Armenia, a visit to the Tatev Monastery is one of the must-haves. St. Paul and Peter Church, built in 906, is considered one of the best structures of the time. The colossal church stands on the very edge of the gorge, at the edge of the abyss. One of the favourite places of Armenians once was a university, and a few centuries later, it even became a centre of the liberation movement, led by the greatest hero of the Armenian people, Garegin Nzhdeh. 2. Khndzoresk swinging bridge A place where you will see an accumulation of rocks and you will hardly believe that there were residential districts there, and the population of Khndzoresk reached 10-15 thousand at the beginning of the last century. People lived in rock-hewn houses until the 1950s. Being a village of historical importance, Khndzoresk is often mentioned in the pages of the national struggle. The grave of Mkhitar Sparapet is here, who was one of the leaders of the liberation movement in the 18th century. The entirety of this cavernous village is completed by the swinging bridge built over the gorge, up to 63 meters high and 160 meters long. By the way, the name is also related to the depth of the gorge, which was originally Khordzoresk. 3. Shaki waterfall Shaki waterfall completes the indescribable scenery of nature. The 16-meter-high waterfall tells a beautiful legend, according to which a girl named Shaki is saved by its waters. This jewel of nature in the south of Armenia is a favorite place for both locals and tourists. 4. Areni wine factory At the end of the tour, we visit the center of winemaking in the village of Areni, where we are hosted by the Areni Wine Factory. Our guests can taste different types of Armenian wines, including those made from Areni grapes. We will also see the cellar, where the wines are stored, and on the upper floor, there's a nice cafe.