Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery & Lavash Baking Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore ancient Garni Temple
- Visit UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery
- Witness traditional lavash bread baking
- Enjoy scenic views of the Azat River Gorge
- Learn about Armenia's rich cultural heritage
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery
- Lavash bread baking demonstration
- Round-trip transportation from Yerevan
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
starting and ending point
viewing point
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. The guest will have a chance to participate in Lavash baking procedure nearby.
In Garni canyon one can explore stunning geological monuments, represented by columnar basalts, which are the result of lava flows. Basalt masses are broken into polyhedral columns, which, due to their regularity of form, have gained the name "Basaltic Organ".
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.
Meeting point
Start Location
Hyur Service, 96 Nalbandyan poxoc, Yerevan 0010, Armenia
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately.
- Please be on time to avoid losing entry to the sites.
- At the time of booking, specify the name and address of your hotel.
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
- 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
Very nice tour!
Our tour guide was! She gave us so much information, very polite and friendly. The places are a must visit, amazing landscapes. Everything eas organized perfectly and right on time.
Excellent tour
I thought this was a very good tour. I was just looking for an easy way to visit these two particular sights and this worked out perfectly. The time at each spot was about right, and where the guide was providing information there was a good split between guided time and time to explore on your own. Also worth mentioning that the transport is of a very good standard. I was between this and the longer tour and for me this was the right option ensuring you have the rest of the afternoon and evening to explore Yerevan. I would recommend this option with this tour operator.
Beautiful Armenia
We had a fantastic tour thanks to our very friendly, professional and helpful guide Samvel. Also a big thank you to Hovsep our driver who did a great job!
Surprise Armenia.
We had 4 fantastic days with Liana, who informed us very well during the various tours, helping us to know and appreciate Armenia in all its details, from the monasteries to city life.
Great tour
Beautiful tour, very rich and exciting. We really liked Guide Haik - and showed the best places, and took photos, and played the folk instrument. The tour is rated at 10/10 or more. All advised!