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Haghpat, Zarni-Parni, Akhtala, Aramyants Castle, Sanahin

Group tour: Haghpat, Zarni-Parni, Akhtala, Aramyants Castle, Sanahin

Name: Haghpat, Zarni-Parni, Akhtala, Aramyants Castle, Sanahin
Brand: Hyur Service
Price: 15900 AMD
Availability: InStock

Full-day

Duration: 13-14 hours

Start time: 09:00

Tour language: English, Russian

Start & end point: 96, Nalbandyan str.

389 reviews

98% recommended

Lori brings together steep gorges, wooded slopes and some of Armenia's richest monastic heritage, and this full-day tour from Yerevan follows that contrast across the region's best-known landmarks. Over 13-14 hours, the day moves between UNESCO-listed monasteries, cave fortifications, a dramatic hilltop stronghold and one of northern Armenia's most unusual historic residences.

The day begins at Haghpat, a 10th-century monastery where Sayat-Nova lived and worked at the end of the 18th century. From there, the journey continues to the Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex, historically associated with the scholar Hovhannes Imastaser. After an optional lunch stop, the route turns toward Akhtala Fortress, dramatically positioned on a plateau above deep gorges, then on to Aramyants Castle, known for its Swiss-style architecture, before ending at Sanahin Monastery. Both Haghpat and Sanahin are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Deposit

To secure the booking, full payment is required.

Cancellation

In case of cancellation at least 24 hours before the start time, the paid amount is refunded. In case of later cancellation or no-show, no amount is refunded.

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Number of people

Adult (age 8+)
Child (age 3-8) 50% discount
Infant (age 0-3) free of charge

Preferred language:

Price per person

0 USD

45 USD

Total price

45 USD

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Itinerary

Haghpat Monastery, Zarni-Parni Cave Fortress, Lunch stop, Akhtala Fortress, Aramyants Castle, Sanahin Monastery

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. Haghpat Monastery

50-60 min Details: Haghpat Monastery

To the northeast of Sanahin, cradled by the lofty peaks of Lori, stretches the monastery of Haghpat – a masterpiece of Armenian medieval art, where stone speaks the language of centuries. Founded in the 10th century under King Ashot III of the Bagratuni dynasty, it rose at a time when Armenia blossomed in culture and spirit. The weathered walls of Haghpat still carry the resonance of that golden age, bearing silent witness to the passage of time.

3. Zarni-Parni Cave Fortress

15-20 min Details: Zarni-Parni Cave Fortress

Zarni-Parni is one of the most picturesque cave-castle complexes of the Lori region, hidden deep in a forested canyon with breathtaking views of the mighty Kayan Fortress. Located near the village of Haghpat, famous worldwide for its namesake monastery, the site seems to continue the ancient story of these lands.

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) – 11 USD per person
Option 2 – 13 USD per person
Option 3 – 14 USD per person

4. Akhtala Fortress

40-50 min Details: Akhtala Fortress

Akhtala Fortress, like a timeless stone sentinel, rises proudly on a high plateau in the picturesque Lori region, resembling a peninsula embraced on three sides by deep gorges. As early as the 10th century, builders fused nature's raw power with human craft: sheer cliffs were reinforced with tall defensive walls and the entrances were guarded by imposing three-tiered towers. For centuries, these walls withstood invasions and preserved within their silence the breath of history.

5. Aramyants Castle

15-20 min Details: Aramyants Castle

The Aramyants Castle, located in the picturesque town of Akhtala in Lori Province, is rightfully considered one of the gems of Swiss-inspired architecture in the Caucasus. Its history spans more than 120 years and is closely tied to the name of Mikael Aramyants, a prominent Tbilisi-Armenian entrepreneur and philanthropist. The castle was built at his initiative especially for his daughter, who suffered from tuberculosis, as Akhtala's climate was regarded as the mildest and most healing in the region. Over the years, the estate became a cultural hub, hosting figures such as the famous opera singer Feodor Chaliapin, Armenian poet Hovhannes Tumanyan and the spiritual leader Khrimyan Hayrik, among many others.

6. Sanahin Monastery

40-50 min Details: Sanahin Monastery

Not far from Haghpat, in the heart of the Lori region, rises Sanahin Monastery – a true marvel of Armenia's medieval architecture. Its construction began in the second half of the 10th century, during the reign of King Ashot III and from the very beginning the complex was conceived as both a spiritual and educational center.

7. Arrival point: Hyur Service (Head Office)

Expected return: 22:00 – 23:00

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

Explore Lori's deep gorges, forests and centuries-old monastic heritage in one rich journey
Visit Haghpat and Sanahin, two UNESCO-listed masterpieces of medieval Armenia
Step into the unusual world of Zarni-Parni, a cave-castle complex linked with local legends
See Akhtala's fortress setting and the distinctive Swiss-style Aramyants Castle

Video Gallery

Practical Info

How much walking is involved?

Reaching Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex involves climbing approximately 150 steps.

Is the visit to Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex guaranteed?

Sometimes, Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex may be replaced with MendzEr Cave Castle Complex, which provides an equally enjoyable experience.

Can I pay for lunch at the restaurant by card?

For your convenience, please keep some Armenian Dram in cash, as card payment may not be an option at all restaurants.

What is the group size for this tour?

The group size varies, but this tour usually has up to 48 participants.

Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate layers are recommended for the tour; carrying a jacket or coat is always a good idea, especially since weather tends to be cooler outside Yerevan. Women are asked to wear modest clothing when visiting churches or monasteries as a sign of respect.

Meet our Guides

Karen Khachatryan

RU HY EN

Dear friends, my name is Karen, and I am your guide through the amazing Armenia. My many years of experience allow me to conduct fascinating tours to the most popular and interesting places in the country. I bring history to life, sing psalms in ancient churches, and tell captivating legends, making your journey unforgettable. With me, you can expect a safe, informative, and vibrant trip!

Khachatur Mirzoyan

HY EN

My name is Khachatur, which is the Armenian variation of Chris (Christopher), and I'm comfortable with that as well. I have been working as a tour guide since 2012. I'm a sociable person, love interacting with people, and always do my best to make sure the tour lives up to our guests' expectations.

Marina Mirumyan

RU HY EN

Hi, my name is Marina Mirumyan, and I am a tour guide at "Hyur Service" company. Haven't traveled to Armenia yet? Then plan a visit and be our guest! Join my tours with "Hyur Service" to discover the endless hospitality of our people, the breathtaking views of our mountainous country, the ancient culture, traditions, delicious cuisine, and much more! Travel with "Hyur Service" to create lasting memories!

Tamara Arakelyan

HY EN

I am Tamara. I live in Armenia and through Armenia. If you want to feel the taste, scent, and colors of Armenia and fall in love with our country, then let's go on a tour together. Just like all my guests, I'm sure you too will want to come back again.

Reviews

Наталья Дубовицкая

Russia

28.09.2026

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I went on an excursion to Lori with guide David. Friends, these are incredibly beautiful places that you should visit at least once in your life! I’m always drawn to the mountains, and they’re wonderful here! The Zarni-Parni complex will give you that from its viewpoint. Delicious food on terraces overlooking the mountains will make you feel like you’re flying and totally relaxed. David is a guide who’s passionate about history, and he’s also a very polite, attentive person. He’s great to travel with! Special thanks to David, the ace of mountain roads—he drives carefully. I recommend it to everyone!

Alla Khina

Belarus

06.08.2026

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A very long journey into the Middle Ages — simply a time machine!!! Our gratitude to guide Eduard for the interesting tour and willingness to answer all our questions (despite the double workload—Russian and English), and to driver Araik for keeping us safe on the winding mountain road. My detailed impressions are on Instagram. I want to film everything—the beauty is insane!!! Bundle up—it’s cooler beyond the pass. I especially recommend it to lovers of history, religion, and nature.

Narine Vardanyan

Armenia

23.07.2026

We had an absolutely fantastic tour with Hyur Service! Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish. The transport was clean and comfortable, and our driver, if im not wrong Samvel, provided smooth, safe, and professional driving throughout the entire trip.Our guide, Marina Miroumian, was incredible. She was exceptionally knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic, sharing fascinating insights that truly brought the history and culture to life. The itinerary was well-paced, giving us plenty of time to explore and take photos without ever feeling rushed. Hyur Service delivers top-notch hospitality and professionalism. Marina and Samvel exceeded our expectations in every way. I highly recommend booking a tour with them!

Andreas Vater

Germany

17.05.2026

Dear Hyur Service Team,

I have just completed 3 impressive , wonderfully guided and unforgettable tours with Hyur Services !👏👏
Many thanks ! Well organized and the staff behind the counters were helpful and very friendly🙏
My special thanks go to your guides Edward & Karen and to the drivers Aro , Hayk & Spartak!
Best greetings and please keep up with the good work!

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