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Private tour: Khor Virap Monastery, Azat Reservoir view point, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery

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Khor Virap Monastery, Azat Reservoir, Arch of Charents, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery

1. Khor Virap Monastery

50-60 min
Attraction page
Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery Khor Virap Monastery
Khor Virap is the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia, as it is directly connected with the adoption of Christianity. As a state religion, Christianity in Armenia was adopted in 301 due to endeavors of Saint Gregory The Illuminator, who, before converting King Trdat The 3rd to Christianity, was imprisoned in the dungeon, over which a church of Khor Virap monastery was built in the 17th century. From the monastery one can admire the stunning view of the Biblical Mount Ararat.

2. Azat Reservoir

10-20 min
Attraction page
Azat Reservoir Azat Reservoir Azat Reservoir Azat Reservoir Azat Reservoir Azat Reservoir
Azat Reservoir (1050 m above sea level) is located in Ararat province. It was put into operation in the year of 1976 with the aim of being used for irrigation of the Ararat Valley. The area makes 2.85 sq. km, while the total volume is 70 million cubic m. The reservoir is surrounded by mountains and within many years it has kept admiring visitors. The reflection of the Sun/Moon combined with clouds in water "spreads" a unique impression.

3. Arch of Charents

15-20 min
Attraction page
Arch of Charents Arch of Charents Arch of Charents Arch of Charents Arch of Charents Arch of Charents
The monument "Arch of Charents" was created by architect Raphael Israelyan. One day on his way to Garni he stopped at this place and, noticing that a picturesque view opens from there to the Mount Ararat, he decided to build an arch as a "temple" to Ararat. The Arch was constructed in 1957, on occasion of the 60th anniversary of the great Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents. It is said, that the poet was also fond of walking around this place. It is like a picture frame, from where a mesmerizing view opens to the Ararat valley with Masis floating in distance. The following words completing Charents' famous poem are carved on the front aperture along the arch:
"There is no summit as snow-white as that of lofty Ararat;
Like an inaccessible path to glory, I love my Mount Masis!"

You can make here stunning pictures against the backdrop of the Arch and Mountain Ararat, only the weather should be clear.

4. Garni Temple

60-70 min
Attraction page
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Garni temple, which towers over a triangular cape, is the unique survived example of heathen culture in Armenia. It is a blend of Greco-Roman and Armenian styles. King Trdat The First ordered building the temple in the first century AD and dedicated it to the God of Sun. After adopting Christianity in 301, the pagan temple lost its significance and the fortress of Garni became the summer residence of the kings. Nowadays the ruins of the royal palace and the bathroom with a stunning mosaic work can be found near the temple.

5. Geghard Monastery

60-70 min
Attraction page
Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery Geghard Monastery
Geghard monastery is the unsurpassable masterpiece of the 13th century Armenian architecture. Some of the churches of the complex are masterfully hewn in a huge rock. From the outset the complex was called Ayrivank (cave monastery), later it was renamed Geghard (lance) as the lance, used by the roman soldier to sting Jesus Christ's side, had been kept in this monastery for many centuries. Due to its construction, Geghardavank serves the best place for singing spiritual songs. The complex is rich in subtle sculptural embellishments and many striking khachkars (cross-stones). The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.

Inclusions

  • Professional drivers

  • Air-conditioned vehicles

  • Bottled water

  • Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan

  • Vehicle & passengers insurance

  • Extra stops on the route upon request

Exclusions

  • Significant deviations from the route

  • Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected

  • Audio guides

  • Wi-Fi in the vehicles

What to expect

  • Embrace the stunning views of Biblical Mount Ararat
  • Marvel at the one of a kind nature of Armenia from a special view point
  • Explore the 1st century pagan temple
  • Discover the legends of St. Lance used by the roman soldier to sting Jesus Christ's side

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Samvel Mkrtumyan

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

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.

Gayane Harutyunyan

Gayane Harutyunyan

Armenia should be visited with an open heart. As your guide, I don’t just offer tours – I create meaningful experiences that connect you deeply with Armenia’s history, culture, and people. With genuine love for my country, passion for its stories, and local insight, I make every journey personal, engaging and unforgettable – turning every place into a living memory you’ll carry with you.

Manya Gevorgyan

Manya Gevorgyan

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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