Private tour: Amberd Fortress, Mount Aragats, Lake Kari, Dry Fruit production and tasting, Saghmosavank, Alphabet Alley
Amberd Fortress, Mount Aragats, Lake Kari, Dry Fruit production and tasting, Saghmosavank Monastery, Armenian Alphabet Alley
1. Amberd Fortress
50-60 min
Like a silent stone sentinel, Amberd Fortress has watched over the slopes of Mount Aragats for centuries. Here, clouds drift along the cliffs and the wind carries echoes of an ancient past. Built at an altitude of over 2,300 meters, the fortress seems to hover above the gorges, merging seamlessly with the rugged mountain landscape. So, there is no coincidence that the name of the castle is translated as "fortress above the clouds" from Armenian.
Armenian architects mastered the art of turning nature into defense. A narrow rocky spur, enclosed by sheer cliffs, became the perfect foundation for an impregnable stronghold. At the heart of the complex stands its most precious gem – the church built in 1026 by Prince Vahram Pahlavuni, whose austere lines still blend in perfect harmony with the surrounding peaks.
Around it lie the ruins of a palace, fragments of thick walls and the remains of towers that once guarded the strategic route to the Ararat Valley. In its day, Amberd repelled invaders time and again, embodying the resilience and determination of Armenian nobles.
Today, the fortress reveals a different face to travelers – silence and open space reign here and the sweeping views of mountains and gorges make it feel like stepping into another era. Walking along the ancient walls, one can almost picture the watch fires burning and hear the distant ring of swords. Amberd unites the raw beauty of nature with the grandeur of medieval architecture, leaving every visitor with the feeling of touching living history.
Armenian architects mastered the art of turning nature into defense. A narrow rocky spur, enclosed by sheer cliffs, became the perfect foundation for an impregnable stronghold. At the heart of the complex stands its most precious gem – the church built in 1026 by Prince Vahram Pahlavuni, whose austere lines still blend in perfect harmony with the surrounding peaks.
Around it lie the ruins of a palace, fragments of thick walls and the remains of towers that once guarded the strategic route to the Ararat Valley. In its day, Amberd repelled invaders time and again, embodying the resilience and determination of Armenian nobles.
Today, the fortress reveals a different face to travelers – silence and open space reign here and the sweeping views of mountains and gorges make it feel like stepping into another era. Walking along the ancient walls, one can almost picture the watch fires burning and hear the distant ring of swords. Amberd unites the raw beauty of nature with the grandeur of medieval architecture, leaving every visitor with the feeling of touching living history.
2. Mount Aragats
Rising 4090 meters above sea level, Mount Aragats claims the title of Armenia's highest peak and stands among the country's most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. This extinct volcano is known for the unusual shape of its crater, surrounded by four distinct summits like the petals of a massive stone flower: the northern peak (4090 m), western (3995 m), eastern (3908 m) and southern (3888 m).
Adding to its charm is Lake Kari, a high-altitude jewel lying at 3250 meters, with a shoreline of about 1150 meters. On clear days, its surface mirrors the deep blue sky and the snowcapped peaks of Aragats, creating an almost dreamlike scene. Streams and rivers enriched by snowmelt nourish the Ararat plain, the cradle of Armenian civilization and almost all of the country's buildings are built with volcanic tufa stone emerging from the mountain's heart, giving them a colorful and charming appearance.
Archaeological evidence shows that people settled on the mountain's slopes since ancient times, reaching elevations slightly above 3000 meters. Traces of old fortresses, sacred sites and settlements from different eras still remain here.
For Armenians, Aragats has always symbolized strength and majesty. Today, it attracts hikers, climbers and photographers, offering sweeping views of the Ararat Valley and neighboring mountain chains. A climb on Aragats is not just a meeting with raw, captivating nature – it is a journey into the deep history of Armenia.
Adding to its charm is Lake Kari, a high-altitude jewel lying at 3250 meters, with a shoreline of about 1150 meters. On clear days, its surface mirrors the deep blue sky and the snowcapped peaks of Aragats, creating an almost dreamlike scene. Streams and rivers enriched by snowmelt nourish the Ararat plain, the cradle of Armenian civilization and almost all of the country's buildings are built with volcanic tufa stone emerging from the mountain's heart, giving them a colorful and charming appearance.
Archaeological evidence shows that people settled on the mountain's slopes since ancient times, reaching elevations slightly above 3000 meters. Traces of old fortresses, sacred sites and settlements from different eras still remain here.
For Armenians, Aragats has always symbolized strength and majesty. Today, it attracts hikers, climbers and photographers, offering sweeping views of the Ararat Valley and neighboring mountain chains. A climb on Aragats is not just a meeting with raw, captivating nature – it is a journey into the deep history of Armenia.
3. Lake Kari
20-25 min
High in the mountains, at 3250 meters above sea level, cradled by the stony ridges of Mount Aragats, lies Lake Kari a small yet captivating alpine gem. Its name means "Stone Lake" and the title could not be more fitting: its waters mirror the rugged grandeur of the surrounding cliffs as if nature itself carved a crystal mirror into the rock. Born thousands of years ago from the melting of ancient glaciers, its waters remain icy even in midsummer, preserving the eternal freshness of the peaks. From here, a breathtaking panorama unfolds the vast Ararat Valley stretching to the horizon and the distant silhouette of legendary Mount Ararat.
On clear days, Kari glows in deep sapphire hues; when the wind rises, ripples break the surface into a living mosaic of light. For climbers, this is both a magnetic destination and a perfect campsite before ascending Aragats.
Mornings greet visitors with crisp mountain air and absolute stillness, broken only by the splash of water and the whisper of wind through the stones.
Local lore tells of a mountain spirit dwelling in its depths, protecting those who approach the heights with reverence. Kari is more than a lake it is a self-contained world atop Armenia, where earth, water and sky blend into one.
On clear days, Kari glows in deep sapphire hues; when the wind rises, ripples break the surface into a living mosaic of light. For climbers, this is both a magnetic destination and a perfect campsite before ascending Aragats.
Mornings greet visitors with crisp mountain air and absolute stillness, broken only by the splash of water and the whisper of wind through the stones.
Local lore tells of a mountain spirit dwelling in its depths, protecting those who approach the heights with reverence. Kari is more than a lake it is a self-contained world atop Armenia, where earth, water and sky blend into one.
4. Chir's House (Dried fruit's House)
40-60 min
Armenia is rightfully known as the land of sun, with more than 300 clear days a year yielding generous harvests of fragrant fruits that give birth to unforgettable flavors. It is here, at "Chir's House" (the word "chir" in Armenian means "dried fruit"), that ripe fruits are transformed into healthy and delicious treats, preserving the warmth and energy of the sun. Guests can not only observe the process but also become part of it by trying their hand at various activities. One of the most popular experiences is picking the only certified organic strawberries in Armenia, where each berry seems to hold the purity of the mountain air.
For those interested in culinary traditions, workshops are offered on preparing dried fruits, sweet sujukh and even Armenian lavash. Visitors can also explore the art of homemade beverages and learn the secrets of Armenian vodka production.
The experience would not be complete without engaging with nature and rural life: guests can milk a cow, go fishing at the Aparan Reservoir or Ashtarak Gorge and witness the making of the national instrument duduk, whose soulful sound has long become a symbol of Armenia. For lovers of active leisure, tents are available for rent, allowing them to stay in nature and enjoy the silence of starry nights.
"Chir's House" offers its visitors the following activities:
The rate for each activity makes 5.40 USD p/p (except harvesting strawberry, for which 8.10 USD per kg should be paid).
For those interested in culinary traditions, workshops are offered on preparing dried fruits, sweet sujukh and even Armenian lavash. Visitors can also explore the art of homemade beverages and learn the secrets of Armenian vodka production.
The experience would not be complete without engaging with nature and rural life: guests can milk a cow, go fishing at the Aparan Reservoir or Ashtarak Gorge and witness the making of the national instrument duduk, whose soulful sound has long become a symbol of Armenia. For lovers of active leisure, tents are available for rent, allowing them to stay in nature and enjoy the silence of starry nights.
"Chir's House" offers its visitors the following activities:
- participating in the harvesting of the only certified organic strawberry in Armenia;
- learning the technology of making Armenian dried fruits and sweet sujukh;
- preparing and tasting traditional Armenian sweets and dishes;
- learning the techniques of home-made vodka distillation;
- baking Armenian traditional thin bread – lavash;
- milking a cow;
- fishing in Aparan Reservoir and Ashtarak gorge;
- making Armenian National Instrument – duduk;
- renting tents.
The rate for each activity makes 5.40 USD p/p (except harvesting strawberry, for which 8.10 USD per kg should be paid).
5. Saghmosavank Monastery
30-40 min
On the edge of the scenic Kasagh Gorge, just north of Mugni, rises Saghmosavank the Monastery of Psalms, a name that itself sounds like a prayer. Founded in the 12th-13th centuries by the noble Vachutyan family, it became not only a spiritual haven but also a sanctuary where priceless manuscripts were copied and preserved. The complex is composed of four structures: the grand main Church of Saint Zion, a narthex, a spacious library and the modest Chapel of the Holy Mother of God. Perched above the abyss of the gorge, Saghmosavank's stone walls have witnessed the passage of centuries, holding within them the strength of countless prayers and the quiet rhythm of nature's voice.
In 1988, an earthquake struck, inflicting serious damage and it seemed the monastery would fall silent for years. Yet in 1998, a great restoration began and by December 2000, the monastery stood reborn in all its beauty.
Today, Saghmosavank greets travelers with sweeping views of mountains and canyon, while within its walls reigns a deep, resonant stillness, as if the land itself is singing an eternal psalm. Standing at the cliff's edge, overlooking the boundless valley, one feels this is a place made for prayer, reflection and profound inner peace.
In 1988, an earthquake struck, inflicting serious damage and it seemed the monastery would fall silent for years. Yet in 1998, a great restoration began and by December 2000, the monastery stood reborn in all its beauty.
Today, Saghmosavank greets travelers with sweeping views of mountains and canyon, while within its walls reigns a deep, resonant stillness, as if the land itself is singing an eternal psalm. Standing at the cliff's edge, overlooking the boundless valley, one feels this is a place made for prayer, reflection and profound inner peace.
6. Armenian Alphabet Alley
15-20 min
At the foot of the majestic Mount Aragats, in the quiet village of Artashavan, the Armenian Alphabet Monument rises where the mountain winds seem to whisper ancient tales. Created in 2005 to honor the 1600th anniversary of the Armenian script, the site has since become a magnet for those seeking to immerse themselves in the nation's cultural spirit. On that occasion, on the Independence Day of the Republic of Armenia, May 28, Armenians formed an unprecedented circle dance around Mount Aragats, and the kochari became an intangible cultural heritage.
Designed by architect Jim Torosyan, this masterpiece is more than a memorial – it is a stone poem, where every letter feels like a living fragment of national history. Thirty‑nine massive characters stand against the mountain backdrop, glowing in warm tones and adorned with traditional Armenian motifs.
The Armenian alphabet, created in 405 AD through the genius of Mesrop Mashtots, changed the destiny of the nation by opening the path to translating sacred texts and strengthening Christianity. The original 36 letters were later joined by three more and this graceful row of symbols has served the Armenian people for over fifteen centuries.
Walking among these monumental letters, visitors feel the breath of history and the power this script represents. Travelers come for rare photographs, sweeping landscapes and the chance to touch the cultural roots of an ancient people. Perfectly blending with the rugged surroundings, the memorial feels like an extension of nature itself, a reminder that language and culture are eternal guardians of memory.
Designed by architect Jim Torosyan, this masterpiece is more than a memorial – it is a stone poem, where every letter feels like a living fragment of national history. Thirty‑nine massive characters stand against the mountain backdrop, glowing in warm tones and adorned with traditional Armenian motifs.
The Armenian alphabet, created in 405 AD through the genius of Mesrop Mashtots, changed the destiny of the nation by opening the path to translating sacred texts and strengthening Christianity. The original 36 letters were later joined by three more and this graceful row of symbols has served the Armenian people for over fifteen centuries.
Walking among these monumental letters, visitors feel the breath of history and the power this script represents. Travelers come for rare photographs, sweeping landscapes and the chance to touch the cultural roots of an ancient people. Perfectly blending with the rugged surroundings, the memorial feels like an extension of nature itself, a reminder that language and culture are eternal guardians of memory.
Inclusions
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Professional drivers
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Air-conditioned vehicles
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Bottled water
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Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
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Vehicle & passengers insurance
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Extra stops on the route upon request
Exclusions
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Significant deviations from the route
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Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
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Audio guides
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Wi-Fi in the vehicles
What to expect
- Take wonderphotos with Armenian letters
- Observe the highest peak of Armenia
- Enjoy the harmony at nature
- Taste Armenian natural dry fruits
*This tour is NOT recommended for people with high blood pressure
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
Meet our Guides
Armine Julhakyan
RU
HY
Hello! I'm Armine, your guide in Armenia. With me, you'll discover not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of my country.
Arpine Khalatyan
RU
HY
EN
My name is Arpi. With experience in guiding since 2015, fluency in English and Russian, and a wealth of knowledge in history and culture, I offer engaging and informative tours during which you'll explore Armenia and feel the greatest vibes ever.
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
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!
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