Hor Virap, Garni, Geghard and Azat Reservoir: Group Excursion

What to Expect

Views of Ararat and the History of Hor Virap
In the morning, the biblical mountain is especially beautiful, so the first stop will be at the nearest point to the mountain in Armenia, at the monastery of Hor Virap, where Christianity in Armenia began.

Located on a rock and surrounded by wide plains, the monastery will impress you not only with the view of Ararat, but also with its rich history. You will learn why Grigor the Illuminator spent 13 years in a dungeon here, thanks to whom Armenia adopted Christianity. You will even descend into a pit 6.5 meters deep, where he was held captive. I will also tell you what was here before Hor Virap and why pilgrims from all over the world strive to come here.

Azat Reservoir
Next, we will go to an observation platform, from which you will discover picturesque landscapes of the reservoir and its surroundings. The reservoir is located at an altitude of 1050 meters above sea level and is just an hour away from Yerevan.

Garni Temple
Next on the agenda is the only pagan temple on the post-Soviet territory. You will hear its rich history, explore the ruins of the Royal Palace, and the Roman bath with a mosaic made of thousands of natural stone pieces. You will also climb to a high plateau and enjoy the view of the Azat River gorge.

Here, you will observe the process of lavash baking and have lunch with dishes of the national cuisine in a local establishment.

Geghard Monastery
The journey will conclude with another iconic abode - a 13th-century monastery complex, included in the UNESCO list. You will get acquainted with the features of the 'Golden Age' of Armenian architecture and inspect one of its best examples - a church carved into the rock.