Uncover the alluring history of Khor Virap Monastery in a 3-day group tour. Explore the connection to the adoption of Christianity in Armenia and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Ararat.
Transfer: Form Zvartnots airport to Yerevan Hotel
Yerevan - For additional fee - $25 per person.
09:00 Khor Virap, Noravank, “Hin Areni” wine factory (tour and tasting), ancient cave (“Birds-Cave”) (9-10 hrs)
Yerevan - Garni, Geghard, Lavash baking - Yerevan
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 A.D. 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.
The Monastery of Geghard - 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, was 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).
Yerevan - Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis, Ropeway) - Sevan, Sevanavank - transfer to Airport
Kecharis Monastery - Kecharis monastery is in the north-western part of Tsakhkadzor. It was built in 11-13th centuries. The monastery consists of four churches and a half-destroyed mausoleum of Grigorius Pahlavuni, who financed building the monastery.
Monastery Sevanavank - A marvelous scene opens in the north-western part of Sevan Lake, where the peninsula towers over the transparent surface of the lake. Sevanavank monastery was built on the peninsula in 874 by the order of king Ashot Bagratuni’s daughter princess Mariam. The silhouette of the churches against the background of the turquoise lake and blue sky casts unexplainable impression on the visitors.
- Guide services
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Breakfast
- All fees and taxes included
- Lunch
- Visit to Khor Virap, Noravank, Hin Areni (tour and tasting), & ancient cave for $25 per person
Khor Virap stands out as the paramount holy destination in Armenia, owing to its deep ties with Christianity’s emergence in the region. In 301, Armenia embraced Christianity as the official religion, thanks to the efforts of Saint Gregory the Illuminator. Saint Gregory, before bringing King Trdat III into the Christian faith, spent time in captivity within a pit where later, in the 17th century, the Khor Virap monastery would erect a church above it. Visitors at the monastery are graced with the awe-inspiring view of the sacred Mount Ararat.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
