Guided tour: Khor Virap, Noravank Monastery, Areni, Jermuk

Discover the ancient monasteries and healing mineral springs of Jermuk in Armenia. Immerse yourself in the rich history, breathtaking nature, and rejuvenating wellness retreats of this enchanting destination.

Duration: 12 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Khor Virap - The name of Khor Virap monastery translates to “deep dungeon.” Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the first Catholicos of All Armenians, was imprisoned here for 13 years by the order of the Armenian pagan king Tiridates III for preaching Christianity. When the king fell ill, his sister had a dream in which an angel told her that Tiridates would be healed only if Gregory the Illuminator was freed. The king released Gregory, who then cured him. Following his recovery, the king declared Christianity the state religion. Khor Virap holds significant historical importance for Armenia. Today, tourists can descend into the underground dungeon located inside St. Gregory the Illuminator chapel. The monastery grounds offer the best view of the holy mountain Ararat.
  • Noravank Monastery - Noravank monastery is situated in Vayots Dzor province, 3 km northeast of Amaghu village. The name translates to “new monastery.” Built in the 13th-14th centuries, the complex is perched on a steep mountain ledge near a cliff. The area is surrounded by striking bright red cliffs, creating a picturesque backdrop for the buildings. In the Middle Ages, Noravank was a vital cultural and spiritual center and served as the residence of the bishops of Syunik province. It is one of Armenia’s most visited attractions, known for its magnificent architectural and artistic design. The monastery has been fully restored.
  • Jermuk - The healing properties of local mineral springs attract many visitors to Jermuk city each year. The name “Jermuk” translates to “hot spring” in Armenian. The city is also famous for its health resorts, beautiful nature, and clean mountain air. The Jermuk ropeway, located at the city’s entrance, was established in 2007 by the Austrian company “Leitner.”
  • Areni Wine Factory - Those who appreciate fine wines and ancient architecture will love the small Armenian village of Areni. Since 2009, the “Areni Wine” festival has been held here every autumn, showcasing over 100 types of the finest Armenian wines. Visitors can taste and purchase both young and aged wines produced at the Areni winery.
  • Yerevan - A trip from Yerevan to various points of interest, including a meal stop and free time, will complete the itinerary.
What's Included
  • Professional guide
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
What's Not Included
  • Snacks
Additional Information

The earliest recorded information on the mineral waters of Jermuk dates to the year 189 B.C., corresponding to the period when the fortress of Jermuk was built. The therapeutic properties of the mineral water of Jermuk have been harnessed since ancient times to combat a variety of ailments.

The city is known for its therapeutic resorts, breathtaking scenic beauty and pure mountainous air. From the hilltops surrounding the tourist town, one can marvel at dense forests, waterfalls, vibrant fields, and magnificent cliffs. The city also takes pride in the ‘water gallery’, a must-visit for individuals with varying health concerns. Numerous ancient historical and architectural artefacts are also present in the vicinity of the city.

  • Paruyr Sevak’s house-museum entrance fee is 300 AMD.
Location
Yerevan
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(178 Ratings)
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Artint6
Jul 27, 2024
Amazing tour! - The tour was phenomenal! Great English speaking guide who patiently explained everything very nicely! Would definitely book with them again!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kimworldtraveler
Jul 19, 2024
Lovely tour! - I’ve done 3 tours with this company and all 3 were very lovely. Yagur was my guide and he was very good- good explanations and good with keeping the time. There was enough time for pictures and viewing at each stop. Nice mix of monasteries and nature just like the other tours. I don’t drink but I tasted the fruity ones and they were interesting, the tour of the winery was nice as well and I enjoyed learning about their process. Wear good shoes if you want to climb the waterfall for good pics. Otherwise you can stay on the bridge and your pics will also be just fine without climbing and non slip shoes. There were toddlers on our bus and one was quite colicky, crying quite a bit. That was disturbing at times. I’m not sure if this a trip for small children as Drive times between stops are 30-60 minutes and the drive back is 90 min and the bus is tight. I won’t blame the company as it’s not their fault the child was crying and whining, however, it is something to keep in mind for other guests. Overall, the tour itself is quite enjoyable! Recommended! I’m glad I booked!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Shushanv2023
Jul 5, 2024
Wonderful experience with One Way Tour - One Way Tour has wonderful guides. I have traveled with them in the past, too, and they all are very knowledgeable. Especially, I like when they are bringing examples from folklore and mythology regarding that specific area, church, or monument.
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Mariamat5404gj
Jun 29, 2024
Amazing tour to Jermuk - I discovered OneWay Tour agency last year based on a friend's recommendation. We had a wonderful trip with my sister then and recently enjoyed another one a few days ago. OneWay company stands out for its affordable prices compared to other tourist agencies, without compromising on quality. Our trip was well-organized, thanks to our knowledgeable and attentive tour guide, Gevorg. We thoroughly enjoyed OneWay's service. Thank you. Mariam Adamyan
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Heather_o
Jun 25, 2024
Great trip - The waterfall, and seeing a different area of Armenia, much dryer than further north. Also driving past the Stork Village.
Review provided by Viator
624parminders
Jun 24, 2024
Great way to explore Armenia - The trip give a great insight of the Armenian culture and deep roots with the Christianity. The monestry we visited was worth the visit and the the sring water fountains was wonderful. The tour guide explained the significance of the places and its origins.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gracee39
Jun 20, 2024
Great & Joyful day - We had a very joyful & fun day with Armine our guide, we learned a lot of new information during our tour she was very kind also our driver Ounan with his smooth driving I recommend every traveler to take the daily tours with One Way tour, we had a very interesting day with Armine & Ounan who welcomed us like their own family Thank you so much for your professionalism much recommended
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kappertjie
Jun 18, 2024
Great experience! - This is a very well managed tour with enough time at the different stops to explore. The main reason for the 5 stars is the expertise of our guide, Hasmik Karapetien. She really has in-depth knowledge about every place we visited, and could answer all our general questions about Armenia culture, history and society too. I have learnt so much. A shout out to our driver, Ashot, too! We are grateful we had such a great guide and good driver.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
X3328sijacobg
Jun 12, 2024
Best tour Guide in Armenia - The package tour was fantastic! Thanks to your team, we had an incredibly enjoyable experience, marveling at breathtaking scenery at every historic site we visited in Armenia. It was a pleasure learning about Armenia's history, culture, cuisine, and beliefs. A huge thank you to our tour guides, Hasmik for the Khor Virap tour and Yegor for the Garni tour. Both of you did an outstanding job! Keep up the excellent work, and we wish you all the best!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Issam_lac
Jun 21, 2024
Average experience_ Not for kids. - This trip is a very long trip with multiple stop with limited time for lunch or to enjoy the specific attractions. This is not a day trip for kids below 12 years old as most of the time people are sitting in the bus and driver trying to be on schedule. The wine offered at the winery visited in June was really poor in terms of quality.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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