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    4. Amberd, Aragats, Lake Kari, Dried Fruit Tasting, Saghmosavank, Alphabet Alley

    Group tour: Amberd, Aragats, Lake Kari, Dried Fruit Tasting, Saghmosavank, Alphabet Alley

    Itinerary

    Amberd Fortress, Mount Aragats, Lake Kari, Armenian Dried Fruit production and tasting, Lunch stop, Saghmosavank Monastery, Armenian Alphabet Monument

    1. Meeting point: Hyur Service (Head Office) – 96, Nalbandyan str., Yerevan

    Departure time: 09:00
    If hotel pick-up is not required, please let us know and be at the meeting point at least 30 min before departure.

    2. Amberd Fortress

    50-60 min Details: Amberd Fortress
    Amberd Fortress – photo 1 Amberd Fortress – photo 2 Amberd Fortress – photo 3 Amberd Fortress – photo 4 Amberd Fortress – photo 5 Amberd Fortress – photo 6 Amberd Fortress – photo 7 Amberd Fortress – photo 8 Amberd Fortress – photo 9 Amberd Fortress – photo 10 Amberd Fortress – photo 11 Amberd Fortress – photo 12 Amberd Fortress – photo 13 Amberd Fortress – photo 14 Amberd Fortress – photo 15 Amberd Fortress – photo 16 Amberd Fortress – photo 17 Amberd Fortress – photo 18 Amberd Fortress – photo 19 Amberd Fortress – photo 20 Amberd Fortress – photo 21 Amberd Fortress – photo 22
    Like a silent stone sentinel, Amberd Fortress has watched over the slopes of Mount Aragats for centuries. Here, clouds drift along the cliffs and the wind carries echoes of an ancient past. Built at an altitude of over 2300 meters, the fortress seems to hover above the gorges, merging seamlessly with the rugged mountain landscape. It is no coincidence, that the name of the castle is translated as "fortress above the clouds" from Armenian.

    3. Mount Aragats

    5-10 min Details: Mount Aragats
    Mount Aragats – photo 1 Mount Aragats – photo 2 Mount Aragats – photo 3 Mount Aragats – photo 4 Mount Aragats – photo 5 Mount Aragats – photo 6 Mount Aragats – photo 7 Mount Aragats – photo 8 Mount Aragats – photo 9 Mount Aragats – photo 10 Mount Aragats – photo 11 Mount Aragats – photo 12 Mount Aragats – photo 13 Mount Aragats – photo 14 Mount Aragats – photo 15 Mount Aragats – photo 16 Mount Aragats – photo 17 Mount Aragats – photo 18 Mount Aragats – photo 19 Mount Aragats – photo 20 Mount Aragats – photo 21 Mount Aragats – photo 22 Mount Aragats – photo 23 Mount Aragats – photo 24 Mount Aragats – photo 25 Mount Aragats – photo 26 Mount Aragats – photo 27 Mount Aragats – photo 28 Mount Aragats – photo 29 Mount Aragats – photo 30
    Rising 4090 meters above sea level, Mount Aragats claims the title of Armenia's highest peak and stands among the country's most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. This extinct volcano is known for the unusual shape of its crater, surrounded by four distinct summits like the petals of a massive stone flower: the northern peak (4090 m), western (3995 m), eastern (3908 m) and southern (3888 m).

    4. Lake Kari

    20-25 min Details: Lake Kari
    Lake Kari – photo 1 Lake Kari – photo 2 Lake Kari – photo 3 Lake Kari – photo 4 Lake Kari – photo 5 Lake Kari – photo 6 Lake Kari – photo 7 Lake Kari – photo 8 Lake Kari – photo 9 Lake Kari – photo 10 Lake Kari – photo 11 Lake Kari – photo 12 Lake Kari – photo 13
    High in the mountains, at 3250 meters above sea level, cradled by the stony ridges of Mount Aragats, lies Lake Kari – a small yet captivating alpine gem. Its name means "Stone Lake" and the title could not be more fitting: its waters mirror the rugged grandeur of the surrounding cliffs as if nature itself carved a crystal mirror into the rock. Born thousands of years ago from the melting of ancient glaciers, its waters remain icy even in midsummer, preserving the eternal freshness of the peaks. From here, a breathtaking panorama unfolds the vast Ararat Valley stretching to the horizon and the distant silhouette of legendary Mount Ararat.

    Armenian Dried Fruit production and tasting, Lunch stop

    60-80 min
    Armenian Dried Fruit production and tasting, Lunch stop
    There are more than 300 sunny days yearly in Armenia, making the country a perfect place to grow huge variety of fruits. Visitors will find many taste surprises full of incredible combinations of fruits and vegetables. Here one can try a variety of dried fruits, participate in the harvest process, walk through the gardens.

    5. Saghmosavank Monastery

    30-40 min Details: Saghmosavank Monastery
    Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 1 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 2 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 3 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 4 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 5 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 6 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 7 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 8 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 9 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 10 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 11 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 12 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 13 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 14 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 15 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 16 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 17 Saghmosavank Monastery – photo 18
    On the edge of the scenic Kasakh Gorge, just north of Mughni, rises Saghmosavank, the Monastery of Psalms, a name that itself sounds like a prayer. Founded in the 12th-13th centuries by the noble Vachutyan family, it became not only a spiritual haven but also a sanctuary where priceless manuscripts were copied and preserved. The complex is composed of four structures: the grand main Church of Saint Zion, a narthex, a spacious library and the modest Chapel of the Holy Mother of God. Perched above the abyss of the gorge, Saghmosavank's stone walls have witnessed the passage of centuries, holding within them the strength of countless prayers and the quiet rhythm of nature's voice.

    6. Armenian Alphabet Monument

    10-20 min Details: Armenian Alphabet Monument
    Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 1 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 2 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 3 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 4 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 5 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 6 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 7 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 8 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 9 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 10 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 11 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 12 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 13 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 14 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 15 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 16 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 17 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 18 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 19 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 20 Armenian Alphabet Monument – photo 21
    At the foot of the majestic Mount Aragats, in the quiet village of Artashavan, the Armenian Alphabet Monument rises where the mountain winds seem to carry ancient tales. Created in 2005 to mark the 1600th anniversary of the Armenian script, the site has since become a magnet for those wishing to feel the nation's cultural spirit. During the celebrations, on May 28, Armenia's Republic Day, which marks the proclamation of the First Republic, Armenians joined hands in an unprecedented kochari circle dance around Mount Aragats. This beloved national dance was later inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017.

    7. Arrival point: Hyur Service (Head Office)

    Expected return: 18:00 – 19:00

    Inclusions

    • Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively

    • Air-conditioned vehicles

    • Bottled water & pastries

    • Admission tickets

    • Wi-Fi in the vehicles

    • Vehicle & passengers insurance

    Exclusions

    • Lunch cost (11 USD – 14 USD)

    • Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)

    Highlights

    • Walk through Amberd Fortress, where medieval stone walls meet mountain silence
    • See Mount Aragats and Lake Kari in one of Armenia's highest mountain landscapes
    • Taste traditional Armenian dried fruits and sweets
    • Look over the Kasakh Gorge from Saghmosavank Monastery
    • Stop at the Armenian Alphabet Monument, a favorite symbol of national culture

    Video Gallery

    Practical Info

    Is entry to Amberd Fortress guaranteed?

    Entry to Amberd Fortress is not always guaranteed, as the gates may occasionally be closed for restoration. Even when the interior is inaccessible, you can still enjoy panoramic views of the fortress and the adjacent church from outside. If the gates are closed, the tour also includes a visit to Tegher Monastery.

    Are there any restrictions for this tour?

    Yes, this tour is NOT recommended for people with high blood pressure.

    How much walking is involved in this tour?

    Prepare for a walk of approximately 200 m to Amberd Fortress to experience the beauty and history of the place.

    Will I have the chance to experience the famous "gravitational anomaly" on Aragats?

    Yes, during the tour you will have the chance to experience the famous spot on Aragats known as the "gravitational anomaly" – a curious stop that adds a little mystery to your mountain adventure.

    Can I swim in Lake Kari during the tour?

    Swimming in Lake Kari is not part of the tour program, and the lake water is typically very cold.

    Can I pay for lunch at the restaurant by card?

    Make sure to carry Armenian Dram in cash: card usage for lunch may be limited.

    What is the group size for this tour?

    The group size varies, but this tour usually has up to 18 participants.

    Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?

    Wear comfortable sport footwear and layer your clothing to match the weather: a jacket or coat is advisable, as the temperature in the regions is often cooler than in Yerevan. Women are expected to wear modest attire at religious sites, avoiding clothing that is too revealing.

    Booking conditions

    Cancellation & modification

    Meet our Guides

    Anahit Ghazaryan

    Anahit Ghazaryan

    RU

    My name is Anahit Ghazaryan, and since 2015 I have been in a state of love! I am in love with Armenia, and I always want to talk about it! Come visit! I guarantee it will be beautiful, easy, delicious, and fun! Let's discover Armenia together, enjoy it, and fall in love! I don't like legends and tell them only when absolutely necessary, and only those that feature real historical figures! Since I was born in the middle of the last century, I talk about some events not as a historian, but as a witness!

    Armine Julhakyan

    Armine Julhakyan

    RU HY

    Hello! I'm Armine, your guide in Armenia. With me, you'll discover not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of my country.

    Arpine Khalatyan

    Arpine Khalatyan

    RU HY EN

    My name is Arpi. With experience in guiding since 2015, fluency in English and Russian, and a wealth of knowledge in history and culture, I offer engaging and informative tours during which you'll explore Armenia and feel the greatest vibes ever.

    Davit Hasratyan

    Davit Hasratyan

    RU HY

    I'm Davit, a history teacher, amateur actor, and since 2010, a guide at "Hyur Service"! I love my country and strive to make every tour I conduct leave an unforgettable impression on our guests, making them want to come back again and again!

    Reviews

    Швецова Ирина

    Russia

    11.06.2025

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    Another amazing excursion with Manya and driver Khachik. . It felt like we were with close friends. The excursion was very informative, and we got a detailed and informative answer to every question! Bravo! Happiness to everyone who lives in this beautiful country.

    Ayaka Sayuri

    Philippines

    07.04.2025

    There's this tour guide named Manya, and she's a really helpful guide! She knows a lot about the places we visit and whenever we ask her questions she always has the best answers, 10/10! Will use this service again if all the guides are as helpful as her!

    Susanna Antonian

    Ukraine

    02.08.2024

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    I’d like to thank your service for the opportunity to visit such beloved and beautiful places in my homeland.
    I went on a group tour on August 2, 2024 - Amberd, Mount Aragats, Lake Kari, Dried Fruit Production, Saghmosavank, Alphabet Alley.
    I’d like to give special thanks to our driver, Khachatur, for his safe driving and professionalism, and to our guide, Manyu (if I remembered her name correctly 😊).
    The tour was very informative, and we had a very full and interesting day.
    I’d also like to point out a few things that could be improved.
    When selling tickets, please add the option to choose a seat on the bus, as it’s not quite right to have to choose from the remaining seats on the spot. Usually there are no good seats left if you arrive at the departure point even a little late.
    I’d also like to comment on the place where lunch was provided. This time, I didn’t like the food, the quality of the products, or the service.
    When we visited the place where dried fruits are made, it wasn’t as exciting as I’d expected.
    I think there are better places.
    Please take this feedback into consideration and improve your tour by replacing this location.
    I hope you understand.

    Юлия Платонова

    Armenia

    15.05.2024

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    We visited Amberd Fortress with the group. What beauty and grandeur! Our guide, Manya, shared a lot of information, and there was plenty of time to walk around the grounds. We visited a dried fruit production facility; I expected more, especially from the tasting. But then they put a plate of fruit pieces on the table for 9 people, with an apricot cut into 3 or 4 pieces, and all the other fruits cut up the same way. Well, that was something, of course.
    Many thanks to the driver—he made his way down the winding mountain roads like a virtuoso.

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