Lusarat

Tours

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.

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.

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.

Discover three cultural highlights of Armenia during a one-day trip from Yerevan. This tour in Armenia includes – Khor Virap monastery, Charents Arch, Garni – Greco-Roman pagan temple, UNESCO-listed medieval monastery of Geghard and Azat reservoir. Khor Virap – Armenian monastery, built in 642, translated from Armenian means “deep hole”. Khor Virap is one of the shrines of the Armenian Apostolic Church, a place of pilgrimage. The most interesting fact of this monastery is the fact that it was built on the site of the royal prison, where Gregory the Illuminator was previously imprisoned – the patron saint and the first official head of the Armenian Apostolic Church by the Armenian king for 13 years. Azat Reservoir - You will have a photo-stop near Azat Reservoir. It is one of the most beautiful reservoirs in the Republic of Armenia. The Azat reservoir has been put into operation since 1976. Its volume is 70 million cubic meters. The sky and clouds are reflected in the water and, depending on the time of day, they give the reservoir a unique look. You have a great opportunity to visit this amazing place and see that gorgeous view. Geghard Monastery - is one of the greatest medieval architectural structures in Armenia. Geghard is completely hollowed out in a cave, it is also called a “cave monastery”. This monastery was founded in the 4th century AD. in place of the sacred spring, originating in the cave. The monastery complex Geghard is included in UNESCO World Heritage List. “Symphony of Stones” - is a natural monument and protected by law. This is one of the must-see places of Armenia. The pagan temple of Garni - was built in the second half of the 1st century by King Trdat III. This is the only pagan temple, which has been preserved on the territory of Armenia. After the adoption of Christianity it became the summer residence of Khosrovadukht, sister of King Trdat III. Charents Arch - is located near Yerevan, between the pagan temple of Garni and Geghard Christian monastery complex in the village of Vokhchaberd. At first glance, the Arch seems to be the most ordinary and unremarkable, but coming closer, passing to the platform inside the arch and looking at the panorama, everything becomes clear – this is the best place to admire the great and sacred mountain of Ararat, to be in unity with it and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

We will drive to Ancient Artashat, the ancient capital of Armenia, also called Armenian Carthage, because the city was trusted to build Hannibal Bark who was the leader of Carthage. Here you will see the best views of Ararat mountain and the nearest point mountain Ararat and the border of Armenia and Turkey. In Khor Virap, a very famous jail where St. Gregory was set and survived for 13 years is located. You will have the chance to enter that jail and see it from inside. After spending time there, embark on a 40-minute drive back to Yerevan and finish your beautiful trip.

Experience a comprehensive tour with natural wonders, ancient architecture, and cultural heritage. Begin your journey at the Symphony of Stones, located in the Garni Gorge. This natural wonder is renowned for its towering basalt columns, resembling an organ pipe symphony, and is formed by volcanic activity and erosion, creating hexagonal columns that you can walk along. Visit the Arch of Charents’s panoramic vistas and the majestic Mount Ararat. Take in breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere. Continue to the Garni Temple and wander through its ancient columns. Learn about its fascinating history, including its role as a royal summer residence. Explore the Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site partially carved out of a mountain. Explore its chapels, tombs, and caves. Journey to Khor Virap Monastery, where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before he helped convert Armenia to Christianity in 301 AD. Conclude your day at the Azat Reservoir, a tranquil spot surrounded by stunning landscapes. This man-made lake, nestled in the rugged terrain, offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy the serene waters and the beautiful views.

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 was built on the place of the former royal prison, located on the historical site of Artashat. It was this very prison in which they detained Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholicos, for an entire 13 years. Your fantastic tour will introduce you to the exotic Pagan history of Armenia, before later introducing you to the development and spread of Christianity in the country. Your first stop will be Garni Temple (77 A.D.), which is the only standing heathen temple in the whole post-Soviet area. The temple is home to the Roman bath house with its mysterious mosaic which is made out of 30,000 pieces of natural stones, as well as the ruins of the royal palace which date back to the 3rd century A.D. The monastic complex of Geghard is another historical site included in this tour. Translated to “Monastery of the Holy Lance”, it refers to the lance with which Longinus pierced Jesus as he was still hanging on the cross. The complex is a representation of 13th-century Armenia, which is considered to be the golden age of the country’s architecture. The most astonishing part however is the virtue of the architect, who cut the church right into the solid rock whilst also considering all the rules of Armenian architecture. On your way to the temple, there will be another short stop at the Charents Arch where you will be given the chance to enjoy one of the best moments of your trip to Armenia: a picturesque view of the Biblical Mount Ararat.