Group tour: Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, Lavash baking master class, Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery
Arch of Charents, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, Lavash baking master class, Lunch stop, Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery
1. Arch of Charents
15-20 min
The monument "Arch of Charents" was created by architect Raphael Israelyan. One day on his way to Garni he stopped at this place and, noticing that a picturesque view opens from there to the Mount Ararat, he decided to build an arch as a "temple" to Ararat. The Arch was constructed in 1957, on occasion of the 60th anniversary of the great Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents. It is said, that the poet was also fond of walking around this place. It is like a picture frame, from where a mesmerizing view opens to the Ararat valley with Masis floating in distance. The following words completing Charents' famous poem are carved on the front aperture along the arch:
You can make here stunning pictures against the backdrop of the Arch and Mountain Ararat, only the weather should be clear.
"There is no summit as snow-white as that of lofty Ararat;
Like an inaccessible path to glory, I love my Mount Masis!"
You can make here stunning pictures against the backdrop of the Arch and Mountain Ararat, only the weather should be clear.
2. Garni Temple
60-70 min
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.
3. Geghard Monastery
60-70 min
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.
Lavash baking master class
15-20 min
As the saying goes: "Bread is the staff of life".
Lavash is one of the most popular gastronomic icons of Armenia, serving as an integral part of the Armenian cuisine. It is a traditional soft, thin flatbread, made in tonir (special ground oven). Although the baking process of lavash requires much of special skills, it is undertaken by women. For centuries lavash has been consumed by all classes of Armenian society, it is valued for the unique taste and the ability to be stored for quite a long period of time without losing its positive qualities.
In 2014 "The preparation, meaning and appearance of traditional bread lavash as an expression of Armenian culture" was inscribed in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
During this master class you will observe and learn the millennia-old techniques of making lavash, and, of course, taste self-baked lavash together with some fresh greens and yummy local cheese. Feeling the smell of lavash once, you will save this impression for the whole life:)
Lavash is one of the most popular gastronomic icons of Armenia, serving as an integral part of the Armenian cuisine. It is a traditional soft, thin flatbread, made in tonir (special ground oven). Although the baking process of lavash requires much of special skills, it is undertaken by women. For centuries lavash has been consumed by all classes of Armenian society, it is valued for the unique taste and the ability to be stored for quite a long period of time without losing its positive qualities.
In 2014 "The preparation, meaning and appearance of traditional bread lavash as an expression of Armenian culture" was inscribed in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
During this master class you will observe and learn the millennia-old techniques of making lavash, and, of course, taste self-baked lavash together with some fresh greens and yummy local cheese. Feeling the smell of lavash once, you will save this impression for the whole life:)
Lunch stop
50-60 min
Optional lunch in the local traditional restaurant on own expense. One may choose between 3 different options:
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 3900 AMD per person
Option 2 – 4500 AMD per person
Option 3 – 4900 AMD per person
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 3900 AMD per person
Option 2 – 4500 AMD per person
Option 3 – 4900 AMD per person
4. Lake Sevan
The fascination and the "pearl" of mountainous Armenia is Lake Sevan, which is one of the world's greatest high altitude fresh-water lakes. It is about 1900 m above sea level. The lake is of volcanic origin and is surrounded with mountains of 3000 m and higher. The beautiful landscape and the crystal water serve nice preconditions for excellent rest.The lake is also famous for its peninsula and medieval church complex, built in 874.
5. Sevanavank Monastery
50-60 min
A marvelous scene opens in the north-western part of Lake Sevan, 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.
Inclusions
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Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
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Air-conditioned vehicles
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Bottled water & pastries
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Admission tickets
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Wi-Fi in the vehicles
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Vehicle & passengers insurance
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Master class & tasting
Exclusions
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Lunch cost (10.39 USD – 13.06 USD)
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Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)
Highlights
- Visit popular religious complexes in Armenia on a full-day tour
- Admire the views of Biblical Mount Ararat from Charents arch and get fantastic photos
- Marvel at the unsurpassable masterpiece of the 13th century Armenian architecture
- Get the taste of traditional Armenian bread
- Observe the spectacular landscapes of one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in Eurasia
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any distance to be carried on foot?
It is needed to go up ~160 m to get to Geghard monastery, besides, there are 200 steps to climb so as to reach Sevanavank monastery.
How will you describe lavash baking master class? Can I take part in the lavash baking procedure?
The lavash master class offers insight into Armenia's bread-making tradition, and afterwards, you'll be treated to a sample along with herbs and cheese. If you're keen to try baking it yourself, please, coordinate with the tour guide in advance.
How much free time will I have near the lake itself?
This tour includes only a visit to Sevanavank Monastery, and no free time by the lake is scheduled. If you'd prefer to enjoy more leisure time at Lake Sevan, please, consider one of the following group tours:
Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis, Ropeway – one station), Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Sevan trout barbecue treat;
Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery, Boat Trip across Lake Sevan, leisure time.
Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis, Ropeway – one station), Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Sevan trout barbecue treat;
Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery, Boat Trip across Lake Sevan, leisure time.
Can I pay for the lunch in the restaurant by card?
We suggest having some Armenian Dram in cash for lunch, as card options may be unavailable.
What is the group size for this tour?
The group size varies, but typically ranges up to 48 participants.
Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?
Comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the tour: taking a jacket or coat is advised, as regional temperatures are often lower than in Yerevan. Women are asked to wear modest attire when visiting churches or monasteries, as a sign of cultural respect.
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
Meet our Guides
Gayane Mkrtchyan
RU
HY
EN
I'm Gayane – a small part of Armenia. Do you want to breathe in the scent of this land, feel the taste of our dishes passed down through centuries, hear the roar of endless rivers and the whisper of towering mountains, and why not, listen to the stories of our stone-carved monuments? Let's discover this ancient land together.
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.
Hayk Harutyunyan
RU
HY
EN
AR
Dear friends! We work for 11 months in order to have 22 days vacation, and you've decided to choose Armenia to turn your vacation into a holiday! Our team has prepared everything to provide the best service, and with me, you'll unzip Armenia's picturesque beauty, architectural and natural monuments, as well learn a lot about the history and geography, economics and social issues, culture, and nature of our Homeland.
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.
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