Armenia Monasteries & Tatev Ropeway Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Khor Virap Monastery with Mount Ararat views
- Discover Noravank's stunning red rock canyon
- Experience the Tatev Ropeway, world's longest cable car
- Visit ancient Noravank Monastery
- Enjoy scenic Armenian countryside landscapes
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Yerevan
- Guided tours of Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev Monasteries
- Tatev Ropeway ride
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
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.
Passing a narrow road, surrounded by rocks of hundred caves, one discovers a scene of harmony of architecture with nature. The monastery, enshrined with fine architectural solutions and luxurious embellishments, is one of the brightest examples of Armenian architecture of the 13th century. Noravank consists of St. Karapet, St. Gregory The Illuminator churches and St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) two-storey church, which is notable for its ideal constructive and sculptural work.
Church bells were ringing loud in Tatev on October 16 of 2010, heralding the launch of a program to revive a medieval monastic complex and the opening of "Wings of Tatev" Ropeway. The 5.7 km ropeway, built within 11 months, passes through a deep gorge of the River Vorotan and over hills, covered with lush forests. The tramway is supported by three towers between its two terminals. One terminal is on a hill, overlooking the village of Halidzor and the other is near Tatev Monastery, on the road to Tatev village. Two cabins operate at once, traveling in opposite directions. There are 6 cables altogether (3 for each cabin), each uniquely foreseen for the specifications of this project. Within about 11 minutes a tramway cabin takes passengers, 30 at a time, from the village of Halidzor to the magnificent complex of Tatev. "Wings of Tatev" is the world's longest reversible aerial tramway, officially recognized by the Guinness World Records.
Among the architectural pillars of Zangezour, the monastery of Tatev does not have its "rivals". It used to be the wealthiest medieval monastery in Armenia. Besides being a religious center, Tatev was also the important strategical center of Syunik kingdom. Being situated on a naturally defended place, Tatev monastery has always been an impregnable fortress for alien. In non-stable political conditions several secret ways in the territory of the fortress led to the canyon and served as a link between the monastery and the external world.
Important information
Know before you book
- Confirm your booking at least 24 hours in advance.
- Provide your hotel details for convenient pickup.
- Be prepared for a full-day excursion with multiple stops.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
- Infant Seats Available
Traveler reviews
Super tour
Very nice tour. Driver Levant and the guide Raffi were very kind, polite and informative about the places. Highly recommended to travel with them.
Best experience, highly recommend
We took a family vacation with a large group of 10 people, and it was a wonderful experience from start to finish. Everything was well organized, the tour was always on time, and every request we made was accommodated. A very special thank you to our driver, Hyak, and our guide, Artur. They truly made this tour unforgettable with their professionalism, kindness, and great sense of humor. They listened to all of our needs and wishes and went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. Thank you so much for making our family trip so enjoyable. We highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for an exceptional experience!
Exceptional private tours in Armenia
We had an absolutely wonderful experience during our trip to Armenia. Our tour guide Arthur was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. He shared so much history with us while making every day trip genuinely fun and enjoyable. We also absolutely loved our driver, Hyak Andreasyan. We did several tours together, and he was always punctual, extremely polite, warm, and professional. He listened to all of our needs, accommodated every request, and truly exceeded our expectations. We would highly recommend their Services to anyone planning a trip to Armenia. They made our experience memorable, comfortable, and so special.
Highly recommend you do this tour!
Well organized full day tour of the amazing sites. Thanks to our driver Aro for taking us everywhere safely and Edward for being a wonderful tour guide.
Amazing full day trip to Khor Virap-Noravank-Tatev
Our driver and tour guide were awesome. Thanks to Aro and Edward for making this trip unforgettable!