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

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

Full-day

Duration: 13-14 hours

Start time: 09:00

Tour language: English, Russian

Start & end point: 96, Nalbandyan str.

339 reviews

99% 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

44 USD

Total price

44 USD

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Same tour privately

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?

There are ~150 steps to climb to Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex.

Is the visit of 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 the lunch in 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 typically ranges 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

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.

Syuzanna Poghosyan

RU HY

My name is Syuzanna, and since 2016 I have been introducing guests to the wonderful Armenia with great love. For me, every tour is not just a story about the country but an opportunity to show its soul, to help you feel its history, culture, and hospitality. I am sincerely happy when I see how Armenia captures hearts, and I will do everything to make your journey warm, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

Varduhi Gasparyan

RU HY

Barev dzez or hello! I'm Varduhi, a tour guide in Armenia since 2022. In tourism, this is quite some time – it has given me an understanding of how to make every tour not just informative but truly engaging. With me, you won't just see the sights of my beautiful Armenia and learn its history – you'll feel the soul of the country, its traditions, and its atmosphere.

Meline Sahakyan

HY EN ZH

Hi everyone! I'm Meline, and I'm a certified tour guide. If you want to visit and explore our beautiful country, Armenia, with a knowledgeable and sociable guide, it would be an honor for me to be your guide. Welcome to Armenia – Հայաստան.

Reviews

Alla Khina

Belarus

06.08.2026

Очень долгое путешествие в средневековье - просто машина времени!!! Наша благодарность гиду Эдуарду - за интересную экскурсию, готовность ответить на все вопросы( и это не смотря на двойную нагрузку - русский и английский) и водителю Араику за безопасность на серпантинном пути. Мои подробные впечатления в Instagram. Хочется снять все- безумная красота!!! Утепляйтесь- за перевалом прохладнее. Любителям истории, религии и природы особенно рекомендую

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!

Birgitta Ortmans

Germany

07.10.2025

We had a great tour with Marina and Josef. Marina was one of the best guides we *ever* had, but also the other guides we had, Anna, Hayk and Edward did a very good job.
For us as German speakers, Marina was also best to understand.

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