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Group tour: Haghpat Monastery, Zarni-Parni Cave Complex, Akhtala Fortress, Aramyants Castle, Sanahin Monastery

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

1. Haghpat Monastery

50-60 min
Attraction page
Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery Haghpat Monastery
Situated not far from Sanahin, Haghpat monastery has its significant place in the historical and cultural life of Armenia. It was built during the reign of king Ashot Bagratuni. Numerous valuable manuscripts and miniature paintings have been produced in the scriptorium of Haghpat for many centuries. In the 18th century the famous Armenian bard Sayat-Nova u sed to live and create in this monastery. The belfry with its unique architectural composition is of stunning interest. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.

2. Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex

15-20 min
Attraction page
Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex
Zarni-Parni is a cave castle complex in Lori region. It is located in a forest canyon with a magnificent view of the Kayan fortress, which is close to the village of Haghpat, famous for its monastery. The complex consists of the "Zarni er" and "Parni er" castles, as well as the "Tsak er" cave. Some historical records note, that renowned scholar and philosopher Hovhannes Imastaser used to live and work in this cave. Currently the area is turned into a historical museum, where one can find number of rare ancient agricultural tools and household items.

Near the cave there is a tavern and winery to enjoy local drinks and dishes of Armenian cuisine.

Evening time can be well "spiced" with a splendid view from the observation deck over a bonfire (at an additional cost of 26.83 USD).

Lunch stop

50-60 min
Lunch stop
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

3. Akhtala Fortress

40-50 min
Attraction page
Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress Akhtala Fortress
The Akhtala fortress is situated in Lori district. It is constructed on a plateau resembling a peninsula, surrounded with deep gorges from three sides. In the 10th century the masons could exactly derive benefit from the nature in order to make the fortress more fortified. The fortress is strengthened with huge ramparts and there are two pyramid-shaped watchtowers, rising above from both sides of the main entrance. The monastery of Akhtala, comprised of three churches, is in the territory of the fortress.

4. Aramyants Castle

15-20 min
Attraction page
Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle Aramyants Castle
The Aramyants castle, one of the jewels of Swiss architecture, is situated in the town of Akhtala in Lori region. It is distinguished for its magnificent appearance and interesting history of 120 years. The castle belonged to Mikael Aramyants, a prominent Armenian businessman, living in Tbilisi. It was built for his daughter with pneumonia, since Akhtala has the best climate in the entire Caucasus region. Many famous people used to spend their holidays in the town, among them opera singer Fiodor Shalyapin, Armenian poet Hovhannes Tumanyan, spiritual and cultural figure Khrimyan Hayrik and others.
The castle of Mikael Aramyants has its own place in the pages of Armenian history, as the declaration of the First Republic of Armenia was adopted here.

5. Sanahin Monastery

40-50 min
Attraction page
Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery Sanahin Monastery
The monastery of Sanahin is on the right bank of Debed river. This architectural complex consists of several churches, seminary, book depository. The building of the seminary, which connects St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) and Allsaviour churches, was from the outset built to make the edifices more earthquake-resistant. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.

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 (10.46 USD – 13.15 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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any distance to be carried on foot?

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.

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Davit Hasratyan

Davit Hasratyan

RU HY

I'm Davit, a history teacher, amateur actor, and since 2010, a guide at "Hyur Service"! I love my country and strive to make every tour I conduct leave an unforgettable impression on our guests, making them want to come back again and again!

Karen Khachatryan

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

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

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!

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