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Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, Tsaghkadzor, Tsaghkadzor Ropeway, Kecharis Monastery, Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery

Armenia, Kotayk region, Temple of Garni, Geghard Monastery, Tsaghkadzor, Kecharis monastery complex, Gegharkunik region, Sevan, Sevanavank,
0/5
Duration

9-10 hours

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

4 people

Languages

Armenian, English, Russian

Overview

This private tour is for 1 to 4 people 38880 ֏ . from 4 to 6 people.

 

This private tour will be an ideal option for those who have planned a short trip around Armenia for it includes several directions at once. The first stop will be at the only pagan temple in Armenia – Garni. In 20-minutes’ drive from the temple, the 13th century Geghard monastic complex, partially carved in the rock and included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List, will amaze you with its splendor. The next stop is in Tsaghkadzor city (translated as valley of flowers), which is considered to be one of the most popular winter resorts of Armenia. It is one of the places of our mountainous country, where the beauty of the nature appears with its whole variety. In Tsaghkadzor there is a chairlift with 5 stations and more than a dozen ski runs. Further on the route is the visit of the “Blue pearl” of Armenia – Lake Sevan. Sevanavank monastery, majestically standing on the peninsula, will open an amazing view of the lake in front of you, shimmering in a palette of blue, emerald and green. Currently a religious seminary functions here which is not readily open to the public.

Itinerary

Garni Temple
Garni Temple

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 A.D. 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.

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, was 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).

Tsaghkadzor
Tsaghkadzor

The very name of Tsaghkadzor speaks about beauty of the city. It translates from Armenian as “gorge of flowers”. Nowadays, the city is a modern resort, which delights its guests with a wonderful climate all year round. High-class hotels, ski resort, clean air and beautiful natural views please touristst in Tsaghkadzor city. The place is also popular among history lovers. One of the most interesting monuments of Christian architecture is Kecharis monastery complex. You can find almost all kinds of entertainment in the city which will make your trip rich and unforgettable.

Tsaghkadzor Ropeway
Tsaghkadzor Ropeway

In Tsaghkadzor, the popular ski resort of Armenia, there is a chairlift with 5 stations and more than a dozen ski runs. The armchaired ropeway of Tsaghkadzor is located on the eastern slope of Mount Teghenis 1966-2819 m above sea level. It has been functioning since 1967. From the height of 2819 m, where the speedy chairlift will take you in 32 minutes, all of Armenia is visible at a glance, and if weather is clear, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Mount Ararat. In 2004 the former ropeway was replaced with a new, modern one, also in 2017 important investments were made. Now the ropeway is well equipped, the active and safe rest for tourists is guaranteed.

Kecharis Monastery
Kecharis Monastery

Tsaghkadzor resort city surprises visitors with not only amazing nature, opportunities to participate in various sports and countless guest houses and restaurants, but also architectural landmarks, one of which is Kecharis Monastery. It is an ensemble of ancient structures based on the model of Middle Ages Armenian architecture. The complex consists of two chapels, narthex, four churches and an old cemetery with cross stones. The church of St. Gregory the Illuminator is the main structure of the monastery. The facade and internal decoration of Kecharis complex look quite restrained.The monastery complex Kecharis includes 4 churches, a narthex, two chapels and numerous khachkars of the 12th-13th centuries. The invasion of the Seljuks led to a difficult situation in the monastery in the XII century. Amirspasalar Zakaria freed the monastic complex in 1161-65 and revived the spiritual life of the monastery. Princes, outstanding soldiers and priests who were killed in battles against the Seljuks, were buried in Kecharis monastery.

Lake Sevan
Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan is situated in the north–eastern part of Gegharkunik province of Armenia, 60 km to the north-east from Yerevan. Together with Lake Van and Lake Urmia, Lake Sevan is one of the three great lakes of the Armenian Highland and the historic Armenian Kingdom known as Mets Hayq (“Mets” meaning “Great” and “Hayq” meaning the “Armenians Motherland”). The two lakes, Van and Sevan, were called “the blue eyes” of the Armenian Kingdom. Lake Sevan is at the altitude of about 1,900 m above the sea level. It is surrounded with the Vardenis, Geghama, Pambak, Areguni and Sevan mountain ridges. The promontories of Noratus and Artanish and the underwater cordon, Shorzha knoll, are dividing the Lake into Major and Minor Sevan. Famous for its temples and cross-stones, the Sevan peninsula is settled in the north-western part of the Lake.

Sevanavank Monastery
Sevanavank Monastery

A marvelous scene opens in the north-western part of Lake Sevan, where the peninsula towers over the transparent surface of the lake. Sevanavank monastery was built on the peninsula in 874 by the order of king Ashot Bagratuni's daughter – princess Mariam. The silhouette of the churches against the background of the turquoise lake and blue sky casts unexplainable impression on the visitors.

Included/Excluded

  • Comfortable car with an experienced driver
  • Bottled water
  • Air-conditioned vehicles
  • Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
  • Extra stops on the route upon request
  • WiFi in the vehicles,
  • Food
  • Specialized experienced guide
  • We can provide a lunch box upon request

Durations

Full day (7+ hours)

Tour's Location

Armenia, Kotayk region, Temple of Garni, Geghard Monastery, Tsaghkadzor, Kecharis monastery complex, Gegharkunik region, Sevan, Sevanavank,

FAQs

Is the tour safe and comfortable?

For the safety and comfort of tourists the high quality buses with air conditioner, TV, comfortable seats, and first air supplies, are chosen. Thanks to the skilled drivers you will have no worries about the route.
The best hotels in each town are chosen for overnight.

What about the guide’s knowledge level?

The guide gives detailed information about the places of interests included in the tour.

Is the deviation from the route possible?

Tour is mainly organized according to the route. There may be exceptions only in case of agreement among the group members if there is a wish to visit the places not far from the route. Otherwise, visits to other places with the guide are possible to arrange with additional payment.

Where can I buy souvenirs?

Souvenirs can be purchased in Vernissage, which is located in the centre of Yerevan, near the Republic Square. Numerous traditonal and contemporary art exhibits are sold here. There are also many other souvenir shops on Abovyan and Tumanyan streets.

How good is Armenia for trekking/hiking tours?

If you are an adventurous, venturesome person and without any fears of risks, for you we offer tour packages which include adventure tours in Armenia. Armenia has favorable conditions for organizing hiking and trekking tours. The combination of natural resources together with cultural and historical places of interest is making our adventurous country more suitable for hiking and trekking lovers who appreciate the nature and active type of travel. By purchasing our travel packages, you will be able to take part in interesting and unique adventure tours, including hiking trips, mountain climbing, visits to caves, jeep tours and so on. This is a great opportunity to make your visit to Armenia and Yerevan unforgettable.

Where to go with children?

Are you planning a visit to Armenia with your family? Excellent! For a good rest with children there are plenty of options to choose from – many cafes and entertainment centers, a modern city zoo and aqua park with water attractions. In Armenia, there is a special attitude towards children, therefore, without any doubt, in any public institution all possible facilities will be offered to you for a comfortable (special highchair, "children's" menu, etc.).

Are touristic attractions open on public holidays?

Most of the touristic attractions are open on public holidays, unless some situations may not permit them to be open, such as a ceremony occurring there. Some places' opening times and days are fixed regardless of holidays. Therefore, before visiting anywhere its best to make sure that the place is open by asking the front desk of your hotel or a travel agency.

from 43200 ֏ 38880 ֏

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