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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.

274 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

43.70 USD

Total price

43.70 USD

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Itinerary

Haghpat Monastery, Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex, 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 Read more: 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 Castle Complex

15-20 min Read more: Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex

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) – 10.72 USD per person
Option 2 – 12.37 USD per person
Option 3 – 13.47 USD per person

4. Akhtala Fortress

40-50 min Read more: Akhtala Fortress

Akhthala 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 Read more: 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 Read more: 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 (10.72 USD – 13.47 USD)
Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)

Highlights

See the beauties of Armenia on a long and exciting journey
Visit monastic complexes included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List
Observe one of a kind cave castle complex
Experience the art of 10th century architecture

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

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

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

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.

Manya Gevorgyan

RU HY EN

I have been a tour guide since 2015. To this day, every excursion is a great source of positive energy for me. During the tours, you will not only get acquainted with the sights, the country's history, and its architectural features, but also feel the full charm of the Armenian emotional mindset and lifestyle.

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

Itinerary

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

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

2. Haghpat Monastery

3. Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex

Lunch stop

4. Akhtala Fortress

5. Aramyants Castle

6. Sanahin Monastery

7. Arrival point: Hyur Service (Head Office)

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 (10.72 USD – 13.47 USD)

Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)

Highlights

Practical Info

How much walking is involved?

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

Can I pay for the lunch in the restaurant by card?

What is the group size for this tour?

Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Tigran Balyan

Samvel Mkrtumyan

Nina Manukyan

Manya Gevorgyan

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