Private Day Trip to Garni, Geghard, Lake Sevan & Sevanavank from Yerevan
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Garni Temple's ancient architecture
- Discover the rock-hewn Geghard Monastery
- Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Sevan
- Visit the historic Sevanavank Monastery
- Experience Armenia's rich cultural heritage
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Yerevan
- Guided tours of Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery
- Visit to Lake Sevan and Sevanavank Monastery
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
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.
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.
The fascination and the "pearl" of mountainous Armenia is Lake Sevan, which is one of the world's greatest high altitude fresh-water lakes. It is about 1900 m above sea level. The lake is of volcanic origin and is surrounded with mountains of 3000 m and higher. The beautiful landscape and the crystal water serve nice preconditions for excellent rest.The lake is also famous for its peninsula and medieval church complex, built in 874.
A marvelous scene opens in the north-western part of Lake Sevan, where the peninsula towers over the transparent surface of the lake. Sevanavank monastery was built on the peninsula in 874 by the order of king Ashot Bagratuni's daughter – princess Mariam. The silhouette of the churches against the background of the turquoise lake and blue sky casts unexplainable impression on the visitors.
Important information
Know before you book
- This is a private tour; only your group will participate.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off are included; please provide your accommodation details at booking.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for the season.
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
Tour
Our guide Poghos Varzhapetyan and our driver make our trip very exciting! I recommend it with two hands!
Beautiful holidays in Sunny Armenia
We thank our guide Akob, driver Spartacus and manager Anna for the clear organization of the program, we had a tour for several days, 3 full tour days. Initially we were given an interesting route, and it was perfectly organized. The guide gave an interesting and detailed account of the history of Armenia and interesting facts about the places we visited. Found common ground with all the members of our international group. Fishing was also organized on Lake Sevan.
My experience
I highly recommend this company and their service. The tours are impressive, we took them without a guide, but our driver, Harut, replaced him for us. An incredibly kind and attentive person who showed us the beauty of Armenia and replaced the guide. Highly recommend it!
Must do experience ⭐️
We enjoyed so much our trip today . Our guide , mister Leo was very patient with us, reccomended an very nice place for lunch , he is an very good english speaker and we really enjoyed this trip thanks to him . I trully reccomend this experience
Essential if you are in Armenia. Great service.
An unforgettable experience. Thanks to driver Alshot, and especially to guide Edvard, who gave practically all the explanations in English only for me, since the rest of the travelers were Russian speakers. 10, and 100% recommended.