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Private tour: Oshakan, Karmravor Church, Saghmosavank Monastery, Hovhannavank Monastery

Oshakan, Karmravor Church, Saghmosavank Monastery, Hovhannavank Monastery

1. Oshakan St. Mesrop Mashtots Church

30-40 min
Attraction page
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Oshakan village has been a holy place since the 5th century, when in 440, due to the duke Vahan Amatuni's efforts, the creator of Armenian alphabet Mesrop Mashtots was buried there and a small church was built over his tomb. In the 19th century a bigger church, bearing the name of St. Mesrop Mashtots, was constructed in the place of the old one. Every year many first class schoolchildren learn the first letter of the alphabet in this church after an oath at the tomb of St. Mashtots.

2. Karmravor Church

20-30 min
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This exquisite church is considered to be the jewel of Ashtarak, resembling a monolith pillar due to its small sizes and architectural solutions. It was built in the 7th century and has come to our days almost intact. The church of Karmravor has a cross-shaped ground plan both from inside and outside.

3. Saghmosavank Monastery

30-40 min
Attraction page
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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.

4. Hovhannavank Monastery

30-40 min
Attraction page
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Hovhannavank monastery bears the name of John the Baptist. The oldest church here is the one-naved basilica, built in the 5th century. In the 13th century, under the patronage of Vachutian dukes, new buildings were added. The portal of the main church, which is embellished with evangelical motifs, is of great interest.

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

  • Explore the history of creation of the Armenian alphabet
  • Marvel at the breathtaking views opening up from the gorge
  • Admire the details of Middle Ages architecture

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Poghos Varzhapetyan

Poghos Varzhapetyan

RU HY

My name is Poghos Varzhapetyan. I've been working in tourism since 2016. I love traveling. As a tour guide, my goal is always to make guests fall in love with Armenia so much that at the end of the tour they don't say goodbye, but instead say, "See you again, Armenia!".

Roza Hovhannisyan

Roza Hovhannisyan

RU EN

Hi! My name is Roza, and I've been working as a tour guide since 2019. Why did I choose this profession? It's very simple: I love Armenia, I love people, and I love introducing people to Armenia. But not just introducing them – I do my best to make them fall in love with my country, too.

Ani Mshecyan

Ani Mshecyan

RU

Good afternoon, dear friends! I'm a Russian-speaking tour guide since 2023, offering tours around Armenia. My main priority is the interests and preferences of our guests. Each tour is customized individually and takes place in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. The excursions are as engaging, creative, and informative as possible. I'll be happy to meet you and share my knowledge about our beautiful country.

Alisa Grigoryan

Alisa Grigoryan

HY EN

Welcome! I'm Alisa, an experienced guide with a deep passion for the cultures of Armenia and Georgia. I look forward to sharing the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality of our region with you.

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