Khor Virap Monastery, Azat Reservoir view point, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery
(One day tour)
Duration: 7-8 hours / Mileage: 175 km
This combined private tour includes visits of some of the most popular attractions of Armenia. During morning time Biblical Mount Ararat is especially beautiful, so the first stop is foreseen at the closest point to the mountain from Armenia – Khor Virap monastery, from where Christianity in Armenia originates. Afterwards you will have a stop at a special view point and there will be a chance to take nice photos of Azat Reservoir, surrounded with nature. Next on the route is the only pagan temple in Armenia – Garni. And, finally, you will be amazed by the magnificence of the 13th century Geghard monastic complex, partially carved in the rock and included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
Pickup location:
Yerevan
1. Khor Virap Monastery
Khor Virap is the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia, as it is directly connected with the adoption of Christianity. As a state religion, Christianity in Armenia was adopted in 301 due to endeavors of Saint Gregory The Illuminator, who, before converting King Trdat The 3rd to Christianity, was imprisoned in the dungeon, over which a 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.
2. Azat Reservoir
Azat Reservoir (1050 m above sea level) is located in Ararat province. It was put into operation in the year of 1976 with the aim of being used for irrigation of the Ararat Valley. The area makes 2.85 sq. km, while the total volume is 70 million cubic m. The reservoir is surrounded by mountains and within many years it has kept admiring visitors. The reflection of the Sun/Moon combined with clouds in water “spreads” a unique impression.
3. Geghard Monastery
Geghard monastery is the unsurpassable masterpiece of the 13th century Armenian architecture. Some of the churches of the complex are masterfully hewn in a huge rock. From the outset the complex was called Ayrivank (cave monastery), later it was renamed Geghard (lance) as the lance, used by the roman soldier to sting Jesus Christ’s side, had been kept in this monastery for many centuries. Due to its construction, Geghardavank serves the best place for singing spiritual songs. The complex is rich in subtle sculptural embellishments and many striking khachkars (cross-stones). The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
4. Garni Temple
Garni temple, which towers over a triangular cape, is the unique survived example of heathen culture in Armenia. It is a blend of Greco-Roman and Armenian styles. King Trdat The First ordered building the temple in the first century AD and dedicated it to the God of Sun. After adopting Christianity in 301, the pagan temple lost its significance and the fortress of Garni became the summer residence of the kings. Nowadays the ruins of the royal palace and the bathroom with a stunning mosaic work can be found near the temple.
5. Arch of Charents
The monument “Arch of Charents” was created by architect Rafael Israelyan. The Arch was constructed in 1957, on occasion of the 60th anniversary of the great Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents.
You can make here stunning pictures against the backdrop of the Arch and Mountain Ararat, only the weather should be clear.
Arrive back at:
Yerevan
Price per person
Number of people | Price |
1-1 | 210 USD |
2-2 | 105 USD |
3-3 | 70 USD |
4-4 | 55 USD |
5-5 | 45 USD |
6-6 | 38 USD |
Inclusions
- Air-conditioned vehicles & drivers
- Extra stops on the route upon request
- Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
- Bottled water
- Cultural guide service
Exclusions
- Lunch
- Garni entrance fee at 1500 AMD ~ 4$ per person
What to expect
- Embrace the stunning views of Biblical Mount Ararat
- Marvel at the one of a kind nature of Armenia from a special view point
- Explore the 1st century pagan temple
- Discover the legends of St. Lance used by the roman soldier to sting Jesus Christ’s side
Booking
Reserve now & pay later !