Private tour: Karmravor Church, Gourmet Dourme Chocolate House, Oshakan, Armenia Wine factory
Karmravor Church, Gourmet Dourme Chocolate House, Oshakan, Armenia Wine
1. Karmravor Church
20-30 min
The name Karmravor, meaning "crimson", comes from the once-bright shades of its roof, which shimmered in the sunlight as if draped in precious fabric. The low walls and graceful dome astonish with their elegance and balance – a perfect example of how Armenian craftsmen united simplicity with profound spiritual expression.
Unlike many monuments, Karmravor has survived with almost no alterations or restorations, making it a rare, authentic witness to the architecture of the early Middle Ages. Here there is no excessive grandeur – only a quiet prayer in stone, filled with warmth and sincerity.
Today, Karmravor remains one of the most touching testimonies of Armenian spiritual culture. Standing before its humble entrance, one can easily imagine how, centuries ago, princes and their families gathered here to lift their prayers in this tiny church – a timeless symbol of humility and purity of faith.
2. Gourmet Dourme Chocolate House
20-30 min
The tour in the chocolate house lasts around 30-40 minutes, during which visitors observe the process of production from behind a transparent window, afterwards there follows yummy chocolate tasting. Here one can also listen to the audio version of chocolate history and its making stages.
The price of the ticket for adults makes 1.62 USD, while for children under 12 y.o. – 1.08 USD p/p.
The reservations should be made in advance.
3. Oshakan St. Mesrop Mashtots Church
30-40 min
The Armenian alphabet was created more than a century after the adoption of Christianity as the official religion in Armenia, when the local people, who did not understand the Greek and Aramaic liturgies, used to remain pagan. Therefore, in order to root Christianity among the people, it was necessary to translate the Bible into Armenian, which was initiated by Mashtots, who has been considered as a saint of the Armenian Apostolic Church for centuries. A small chapel was built over his grave, and centuries later, in the 19th century, a majestic church dedicated to Saint Mesrop Mashtots was erected here. Since then, Oshakan has become a sacred place for every Armenian, for it is here that the written heritage of the nation truly begins.
Each September, schoolchildren and their parents gather here, and first-graders solemnly pledge at the grave of Mashtots to honor and preserve the traditions of their native language. The atmosphere of this place is imbued with deep emotion: it carries not only the weight of centuries but also the living bond between generations. The stone walls of the church echo with the silence of prayers and the whispered gratitude of those who revere the great enlightener.
Oshakan is no longer just a village, but a symbol of spiritual foundation, where every step reminds visitors of the greatness of Armenian literacy and of the man who gifted it to his people.
4. Armenia Wine factory
80-90 min
The following degustation packages are available:
- Option 1 – tasting of 3 types of "Yerevan" wine at 21.61 USD p/p;
- Option 2 – tasting of 3 types of "Takar" wine at 91.35 USD p/p.
Other saturated tasting options are also possible to book.
The reservations should be made in advance.
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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Audio guides
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Wi-Fi in the vehicles
What to expect
- Admission price is calculated for "Option 1" wine tasting package
- Admire the details of Middle Ages architecture
- Get an insight look into Armenian chocolate-making traditions
- Explore the history of creation of the Armenian alphabet
- Taste exquisite Armenian wine
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
Meet our Guides
Hayk Harutyunyan
Dear friends! We work for 11 months in order to have 22 days vacation, and you've decided to choose Armenia to turn your vacation into a holiday! Our team has prepared everything to provide the best service, and with me, you'll unzip Armenia's picturesque beauty, architectural and natural monuments, as well learn a lot about the history and geography, economics and social issues, culture, and nature of our Homeland.
Tigran Balyan
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
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!
Hasmik Manukyan
My name is Hasmik Manukyan. I have extensive experience and hold a tour guide license. I conduct excursions in two languages – Russian and German. I completed guide-interpreter courses in Yerevan, advanced training courses at the Institute for Continuing Education in Moscow and participated in an international training program, for which I hold certificates. I love my job and meeting new people. Every time, I’m delighted to introduce guests to the beauty and landmarks of my country, striving to ensure they leave satisfied, in love with Armenia and eager to return again.
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