Armenian Heritage and Lavash Baking Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Khor Virap Monastery with panoramic views of Mount Ararat
- Discover the ancient Garni Temple, Armenia's only Greco-Roman colonnaded building
- Experience the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, carved into a mountain
- Participate in a hands-on lavash bread baking session
- Enjoy scenic drives through Armenia's picturesque countryside
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Khor Virap Monastery
- Visit to Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery
- Traditional lavash bread baking experience
- Meals and beverages not specified in the itinerary
Itinerary
starting and ending point
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.
short stop for admiring view and photos
Lavash is one of the most popular gastronomic icons of Armenia, serving as an integral part of the Armenian cuisine. It is a traditional soft, thin flatbread, made in tonir (special ground oven). Although the baking process of lavash requires much of special skills, it is undertaken by women. In 2014 "The preparation, meaning and appearance of traditional bread lavash as an expression of Armenian culture" was inscribed in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. During this master class you will observe and learn the millennia-old techniques of making lavash, and, of course, taste self-baked lavash together with some fresh greens and yummy local cheese. Feeling the smell of lavash once, you will save this impression for the whole life:)
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, had been 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). The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
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 AD 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.
Meeting point
Start Location
Hyur Service, 96 Nalbandyan poxoc, Yerevan 0010, Armenia
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; ensure you understand the language
- Confirm your pickup location and time upon booking
- Be prepared for a full-day excursion with multiple walking sites
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain
- Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection
- Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infants Required On Laps
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- The duration is approximate
- Seats will not be known in advance
Traveler reviews
Spiritual tour
Thank you for Arpi and Joseph for making our trip so special! Your professionalism, warmth, and deep knowledge of the area truly elevated our vacation. Arpi was an exceptional guide, and Joseph was always friendly, and ensured a safe journey. We couldn’t have asked for a better team
Fabulous Sevan.
Thank you to Gayana and David for the wonderful immersion in the magical atmosphere of fairytale Armenia. The tour was held at the highest level, the professionalism of the organizers and the affection for the tourists is felt. 22.05.2026 Sergei and Oksana. G. Novosibirsk.
Khor Virap and Garni tour.
Hayk and Mavrik, our guide and driver, accompanied us during this wonderful day. The visits were accompanied by very interesting comments. Recommended tour. Ask for Hayk and Mavrik.
Excellent tour
Took the Russian version of the tour. Good program, good guide, good organization. Going to book tours with HyurService again. Guide Samvel, driver also Samvel :) It's a bit of a pity that Symphony of Stones doesn't fit in in time, either, because it's located near Garney and it would be convenient to watch everything at a time. But time is limited, of course.
Cool tour of the most iconic places
The tour really enjoyed it. Comfortable bus, tour timing and free time were excellent. An unexpectedly nice bonus is a lava baking workshop and anyone could try rolling out the dough or sending a tortilla to bake. Our guide Samvel is very good at the material, we learned a lot. Thanks to our driver Samwell for driving safely. We were also taken straight from the hotel, very convenient. We really enjoyed it all, we would love to use the services of your company again!