Armenian Monasteries and Ropeway Tour
FromAMD 73
14 hours – 15 hours
Yerevan, Armenia
About this activity
Embark on a full-day adventure from Yerevan to explore Armenia's ancient monasteries, including Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev, with a thrilling ropeway ride offering panoramic views.
Highlights
- Explore Khor Virap Monastery with stunning views of Mount Ararat
- Visit the 13th-century Noravank Monastery nestled in a red canyon
- Experience the world's longest reversible aerial tramway to Tatev Monastery
- Discover the rich history and architecture of Armenia's ancient monasteries
- Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and cultural insights along the journey
Full description
Set off from Yerevan on an unforgettable journey through Armenia's rich history and stunning landscapes. Your first stop is the Khor Virap Monastery, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of Mount Ararat. Next, visit the 13th-century Noravank Monastery, renowned for its unique red sandstone architecture set against a dramatic canyon backdrop. The highlight of the tour is the Tatev Monastery, accessible via the world's longest reversible aerial tramway, the Wings of Tatev, offering breathtaking views of the Vorotan Gorge. Throughout the day, enjoy comfortable transportation and insightful commentary from your knowledgeable guide, making this excursion a must-do for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev monasteries
- Round-trip transportation from Yerevan
- Tickets for the Tatev Ropeway
- Meals and personal expenses
Itinerary
1
starting and returning point
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
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.
Duration: 50 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
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.
Duration: 50 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4
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.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: YES
5
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.
Duration: 1h 10mAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Meeting point
Start Location
Hyur Service, 96 Nalbandyan poxoc, Yerevan 0010, Armenia
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately
- Please be on time to ensure timely entry to all sites
- At the time of booking, specify the name and address of your hotel for pickup
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and architecture
- Carry a light jacket, as temperatures can vary throughout the day
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
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
4.9580 reviews
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Five star ⭐ experience
Unique experience. I lived every moment. I wanna do it again.
seraf_no844Jul 4, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Wonderful Tatev Tour with Edward and Aro
We had a wonderful time on the Tatev Tour with Edward as our guide and Aro as our driver. It was a long day, but it was fun from start to finish and well worth it. Edward was knowledgeable, friendly, and kept the tour interesting with great insights throughout the trip. We highly recommend this tour!
rvW3031DBJul 1, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Journey through Armenia
Trip with Eduard was one of the best experiences in my life. Beautiful views were accompanied by his insightful stories, which helped me learn about the places with such a deep history. Also the driver Aro was really carefull on the road so I felt safe on a curvy Armenian roads
566lukaszrJun 30, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Magic of Tatev
I liked the way Edward talked about Armenia. It was interesting and delicious. Also really liked how Edward revealed Tatev. It's a special place. Definitely advised.
Go33311306251Jun 30, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Excellent in all regards
Eduard was an excellent guide. The driver Aro was great as well. We had sufficient time to explore after the guided tour. Eduard would give interesting knowledge during the drive itself. Hyur is a great operator, we would do it again for sure!
S6458SGbenjaminpJun 30, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
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