Private tour: Khor Virap Monastery, Tsaghkadzor, Kecharis Monastery, Ropeway
Khor Virap Monastery, Tsaghkadzor, Kecharis Monastery, Tsaghkadzor Ropeway
1. Khor Virap Monastery
50-60 min
Today, visitors can descend into the same narrow cell, breathing the cool air that still carries the weight of unending prayers. From this hill, Mount Ararat rises so close it feels within reach – its slopes bathed in gold at dawn, then clothed in crimson fire as the sun sinks beyond the horizon. Khor Virap remains a place where time pauses, where the whisper of history lingers in the wind and where the sight of Ararat awakens something eternal within the soul.
There is a story that Noah landed his ark on the slopes of Masis and planted a grapevine there. In August, when the snow on Mount Sis melts, the grapes give their first harvest in honor of the victory of the patriarch Hayk, which begins the New Year of the Armenian pagan calendar and now it is celebrated as the grape blessing. In October, when the snow covers the slopes of Sis with its sheet, Armenians make a "machar" (young wine) to mark the time for making wine and thus begins the wine festival.
2. Tsaghkadzor
5-10 min
Tsaghkadzor greets its guests with warmth and energy, offering every delight for the active traveler from cutting-edge ski rentals and lessons led by seasoned instructors to charming restaurants, welcoming cafés and lively leisure venues. The ski season here stretches for nearly five months, from mid-November to mid-April, giving visitors a generous span of time to carve their way down sparkling slopes.
The crisp mountain air invigorates the spirit and every descent feels like a flight through pure freedom. From the highest points, the view is nothing short of a masterpiece endless mountain ranges fading into the horizon, where sunlight dances across snow crystals like scattered diamonds.
Yet Tsaghkadzor is far more than a playground for winter sports. It is a sanctuary of calm where you can wander through fragrant pine forests, sip steaming tea beside a crackling fire and listen to the gentle whisper of wind weaving through the mountain passes. Here, in every season, the harmony between man and nature unfolds like a living symphony, calling travelers to return again and again.
3. Kecharis Monastery
20-30 min
The monastery's austere stone walls and domes blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature, while in the quiet courtyard only the whisper of the wind and the chime of bells can be heard. In its vibrant past, Kecharis was alive with spiritual activity: manuscripts were copied, theological debates were held and pilgrims from across the land found shelter and solace.
Today, surrounded by green slopes and mountain air, Kecharis welcomes travelers with the same serenity it has offered for centuries. Crossing its threshold, one feels time slow down, as if inviting a touch of the eternal roots of faith.
4. Tsaghkadzor Ropeway
50-60 min
The highest point of the route rises 2819 meters above sea level. In just over half an hour, the cabins glide skyward, revealing sweeping panoramas of majestic ridges. On clear days, even the biblical silhouette of Mount Ararat appears on the horizon, standing as a timeless symbol of strength.
The original lift was replaced in 2004 with a modern system and in 2017 it was further upgraded, turning into one of the safest and most comfortable ski lifts in the region. Today, it is more than a technical achievement it is a journey in itself: each ascent feels like a flight, a moment of communion with the mountains and the sky.
The Tsaghkadzor cableway is not just a route to the summit it is a passage into a world where the mountains draw near, the air is sharper and every moment carries a spark of wonder.
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
- Complete your day with short & fun tour
- Embrace the stunning views of Biblical Mount Ararat
- Step at the birthplace of Christianity in Armenia
- Visit beautiful monastery of the 11-13th centuries
- Explore the picturesque mountain ranges
- Embrace the beautiful spirit of the valley of flowers
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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