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    4. Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones, Geghard Monastery, Lavash Baking

    Group tour: Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones, Geghard Monastery, Lavash Baking

    Itinerary

    Arch of Charents, Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon), Geghard Monastery, Lavash Baking Masterclass

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

    Departure time: 10:00
    If hotel pick-up is not required, please let us know and be at the meeting point at least 30 min before departure.

    2. Arch of Charents

    15-20 min Details: Arch of Charents
    Arch of Charents – photo 1 Arch of Charents – photo 2 Arch of Charents – photo 3 Arch of Charents – photo 4 Arch of Charents – photo 5 Arch of Charents – photo 6
    The Arch of Charents is not just an architectural monument but a poetic tribute to Armenia and its sacred symbol – Mount Ararat. It was designed by architect Rafael Israelyan, who, while on his way to Garni, stopped at this very spot and was struck by the breathtaking view of the snow-capped Masis. That moment inspired him to create a kind of "temple" dedicated to Ararat – an arch framing the majestic mountain as if in a painting. It is said that the poet himself loved visiting these places, making this monument a living reminder of his legacy.

    3. Garni Temple

    60-70 min Details: Garni Temple
    Garni Temple – photo 1 Garni Temple – photo 2 Garni Temple – photo 3 Garni Temple – photo 4 Garni Temple – photo 5 Garni Temple – photo 6 Garni Temple – photo 7 Garni Temple – photo 8 Garni Temple – photo 9 Garni Temple – photo 10 Garni Temple – photo 11 Garni Temple – photo 12 Garni Temple – photo 13 Garni Temple – photo 14 Garni Temple – photo 15 Garni Temple – photo 16 Garni Temple – photo 17 Garni Temple – photo 18 Garni Temple – photo 19 Garni Temple – photo 20 Garni Temple – photo 21 Garni Temple – photo 22 Garni Temple – photo 23 Garni Temple – photo 24 Garni Temple – photo 25 Garni Temple – photo 26
    On the edge of a triangular cliff, high above the roaring waters of the Azat River, rises the pagan temple of Garni – the sole guardian of Armenia's classical heritage that has survived the centuries. Its elegant columns, turned toward the sun, seem to continue their silent homage to Mihr, the solar god to whom the temple was dedicated.

    4. Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon)

    30-35 min Details: Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon)
    Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 1 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 2 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 3 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 4 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 5 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 6 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 7 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 8 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 9 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 10 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 11 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 12 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 13 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 14 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 15 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 16 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 17 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 18 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 19 Symphony of Stones (Garni Canyon) – photo 20
    Deep within the Garni Canyon, nature has sculpted one of Armenia's most unusual wonders – the majestic polygonal basalt columns that seem to have stepped out of an ancient legend. Formed thousands of years ago from solidified volcanic lava, these towering blocks astonish with their precision and harmony. Rising skyward in strict vertical lines, they resemble the pipes of a colossal organ, which gave them the name "Basalt Organ" or "Symphony of Stones".

    5. Geghard Monastery

    60-70 min Details: Geghard Monastery
    Geghard Monastery – photo 1 Geghard Monastery – photo 2 Geghard Monastery – photo 3 Geghard Monastery – photo 4 Geghard Monastery – photo 5 Geghard Monastery – photo 6 Geghard Monastery – photo 7 Geghard Monastery – photo 8 Geghard Monastery – photo 9 Geghard Monastery – photo 10 Geghard Monastery – photo 11 Geghard Monastery – photo 12 Geghard Monastery – photo 13 Geghard Monastery – photo 14 Geghard Monastery – photo 15 Geghard Monastery – photo 16 Geghard Monastery – photo 17 Geghard Monastery – photo 18 Geghard Monastery – photo 19 Geghard Monastery – photo 20 Geghard Monastery – photo 21 Geghard Monastery – photo 22 Geghard Monastery – photo 23 Geghard Monastery – photo 24 Geghard Monastery – photo 25 Geghard Monastery – photo 26 Geghard Monastery – photo 27 Geghard Monastery – photo 28 Geghard Monastery – photo 29 Geghard Monastery – photo 30 Geghard Monastery – photo 31 Geghard Monastery – photo 32 Geghard Monastery – photo 33
    Amid the wild cliffs of Kotayk Gorge, where the wind carries the scent of stone and pine, the Monastery of Geghard appears as if the mountain itself had carved a sanctuary for eternity. Its walls, half fortress and half cave, rise from the rock like a prayer solidified in stone. Here, silence is alive, filled with the soft echo of centuries-old hymns.

    Lavash Baking Masterclass

    15-20 min Details: Lavash Baking Masterclass
    Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 1 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 2 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 3 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 4 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 5 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 6 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 7 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 8 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 9 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 10 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 11 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 12 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 13 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 14 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 15 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 16 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 17 Lavash Baking Masterclass – photo 18
    As an old proverb says, "bread is the staff of life" and in Armenia this bread is undoubtedly lavash. Thin and soft, baked in the blazing heat of a tonir, lavash has long held a special place in Armenian culture and daily life. It is more than food – it is a symbol of hospitality, family warmth and traditions carefully passed down through generations.

    6. Arrival point: Hyur Service (Head Office)

    Expected return: 15:00 – 16:00

    Inclusions

    • Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively

    • Air-conditioned vehicles

    • Bottled water & pastries

    • Admission tickets

    • Wi-Fi in the vehicles

    • Vehicle & passengers insurance

    • Masterclass & tasting

    Exclusions

    • Lunch stop

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

    Highlights

    • Capture Mount Ararat from Charents Arch, one of the route's most rewarding photo stops
    • Step into Armenia's pagan past at the 1st-century Garni Temple
    • See the Symphony of Stones in Garni Gorge, or enjoy a sujukh-making experience if winter road conditions close the canyon
    • Discover Geghard, a UNESCO-listed monastery partly carved into the rock
    • Bake and taste fresh lavash in a traditional Armenian masterclass

    Video Gallery

    Practical Info

    How much walking is involved in this tour?

    Reaching Geghard Monastery involves a walk of approximately 160 m.

    What does the lavash baking masterclass involve? Can I take part in the baking process?

    The lavash baking experience mainly involves a demonstration of how this traditional bread is prepared, and you'll be able to enjoy a sample served with cheese and herbs. If you'd like to join in on the process, please let the tour guide know early on.

    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?

    For the best experience on the tour, please wear comfortable sports shoes and bring clothing suitable for various weather conditions: a jacket or coat is recommended. Weather in the regions is generally cooler than in Yerevan. Women are asked to avoid revealing clothing when visiting churches and monasteries.

    Booking conditions

    Cancellation & modification

    Meet our Guides

    Arev Makhsudyan

    Arev Makhsudyan

    HY EN

    My name is Arev (which means "Sun"). I am an English-speaking tour guide in Armenia, working since 2018. If you choose me as your guide, you will learn a lot about Armenian history, nature, culture, and traditions – and as a bonus, I'll perform Armenian traditional folk songs for you.

    Tigran Balyan

    Tigran Balyan

    RU HY EN

    Hello, I am Tigran a guide in my wonderful and lovely Armenia ❤️ I am guiding in my country and with this passion I can share kindness, joy and smiles to my tourists. My experience is already 7 plus years and I enjoy architecture, wine and mountains in amazing Armenia.

    Samvel Mkrtumyan

    Samvel Mkrtumyan

    RU HY EN

    Hi, I'm Samvel. With degrees in international relations and history, and years of connecting people from all walks of life, I've turned my passion for stories into guiding. I love revealing Armenia's hidden gems, sharing its quirky legends, and showcasing its breathtaking sights. It's fun, pal. Let's enjoy it together!

    Nina Manukyan

    Nina Manukyan

    RU HY EN

    Hello! My name is Nina, I am a guide at "Hyur Service" company. I am happy to introduce guests to Armenia – its history, culture and ancient traditions. For me as a guide, it is very important that every tour is clear, engaging and comfortable. Together we will explore famous landmarks, create beautiful memories and of course, take lively photos :) I will be happy to become your guide in Armenia. Travel with "Hyur Service" and discover Armenia not only with your eyes, but also with your heart.

    Reviews

    Sebastian S

    Germany

    24.08.2026

    Had such a wonderful day in Garni, symphony of stones etc. With Rose and tall Arak our driver. Thank you so much

    Valery Maksimov

    Russia

    06.07.2026

    Спасибо гиду Мане за отличную экскурсию! Очень познавательно и доходчиво! По времени вообще отлично, без опозданий и задержек! Маня отлично спела!

    Ирина

    Russia

    22.06.2026

    Очень понравилась экскурсия. Гид Арпи и водитель Мавр сделали нашу поездку комфортной, интересной и увлекательной. Показали нам красивые места, которые являются визитной карточкой Армении. Арни очень интересно рассказывала про исторические события , связанные с этими местами. Спасибо за прекрасную поездку.

    Sergey Gorbunov

    Russia

    27.10.2025

    Очень понравилась экскурсия к древнему языческому храму Гарни и симфонии камней. Гид просто пушка, много рассказал и про историю этих мест, и Армении в целом. Особая благодарность Davit Hasratyan за прекрасную подачу информации.

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