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
review
Our guide Karen was amazing! The trip was very well organized, the atmosphere was friendly. It was fascinating, thanks a lot!
An unforgettable tour
Really enjoyed the tour! Thank you very much to Arpie the tour guide and Spartacus the driver. Everything was great.
Great value!
We had an incredibly smooth and memorable experience as a family of five, including grandma and two young kids, ages 10 and 7. Pickup from our hotel was right on time, and the shuttle was very comfortable for everyone. Our guide, Arpi, was knowledgeable, warm, and made the day feel easy and enjoyable for both the adults and kids. The food was delicious, and the entire experience felt well-organized from start to finish. We would definitely recommend this tour to families looking for a comfortable, meaningful, and enjoyable experience. Wear comfortable shoes, bring hats and water.
Great.
Really enjoyed this tour! The bus, though big, was comfortable and clean. Refrigerators didn't work, the water was free, but it was warm. Last tour, the bus was smaller and the refrigerators were working, but that didn't spoil our experience. The only thing is that baking lavash - you will not cut the lavash yourself, you will just be shown how they do it in Armenia. We had tour guide Arpi and driver Spartacus with us, compared to the last tour a lot of interesting told the guide, but free time for photos was also available. Thank you, we'll come again!
Excellent
Very interesting places , very kind guide with great knowledge (arpi),very beautiful place