Private Garni Temple & Geghard Monastery Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Garni Temple's ancient architecture
- Discover Geghard Monastery's rock-hewn churches
- Enjoy scenic views of Mount Ararat
- Learn about Armenia's rich history
- Experience local culture and traditions
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Yerevan
- Guided tours of Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
The monument "Arch of Charents" was created by architect Raphael Israelyan. One day on his way to Garni he stopped at this place and, noticing that a picturesque view opens from there to the Mount Ararat, he decided to build an arch as a "temple" to Ararat. The Arch was constructed in 1957, on occasion of the 60th anniversary of the great Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents. It is said, that the poet was also fond of walking around this place. It is like a picture frame, from where a mesmerizing view opens to the Ararat valley with Masis floating in distance. The following words completing Charents' famous poem are carved on the front aperture along the arch: "There is no summit as snow-white as that of lofty Ararat; Like an inaccessible path to glory, I love my Mount Masis!" You can make here stunning pictures against the backdrop of the Arch and Mountain Ararat, only the weather should be clear.
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.
Important information
Know before you book
- This is a private tour; only your group will participate.
- Please specify your hotel name and address at the time of booking.
- The order of the itinerary may change depending on ticket availability.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Dress modestly to respect local customs and religious sites.
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
Getting out of Yerevan heat in the summer
Excellent experience! Beautiful places, nature plus old construction. Very beautiful and unique. Likely, not something would have experienced in other parts of Europe. Do it as a private tour if you can - much better, not rushed, and lots of information/conversation with the guide. Our guide was Mariam and driver Arman - both were top!
Excellent tour!
My husband and I had the most wonderful experience on this tour! Arev was an excellent, kind, and knowledgeable tour guide. She made the history come alive, and made the subject matter impactful and interesting. Hearing her sing in the Geghard Monastery was a powerful moment that we'll remember forever. Aram was a professional and safe driver, and made the entire day enjoyable and comfortable. Lunch was also relaxing and delicious. I have a gluten allergy, and Arev kindly informed the hosts who made sure that there was plenty that I could eat safely. We highly recommend!
Private excursion
We are happy with this excursion. Our guide Rose presented us with the details, and our driver Taron helped us with our dogs. Both are kind and a good team, and the excursion was convenient with them. The direct contact with the agency was easy as well. Thank you for everything
Highly recommended
Arman was very gentle and welcoming. All locations are picturesque!
We came as tourists, and we left as guests and friends.
Our tour guide Rose and the driver Aved accompanied us on a beautiful excursion. We were picked up by the comfortable limousine from the hotel and learned a lot about Armenia's history from Rose (by the way, very engagingly told). Aved drives very pleasantly and confidently; nothing disturbed his calm, and he accompanied us all day with a friendly smile. We visited the ancient temple of Garni, the Geghard Monastery, and the volcanic rock formations "Symphony of Stones." As a special surprise, Rose organized a small outdoor dinner for us featuring specialties of Armenian cuisine. The richly laid table was the crowning conclusion to a perfect day of excursions. On our very first day in Armenia, we experienced a wonderful welcome in this way: we arrived as tourists, and we left as guests and friends. We were so excited that we booked another tour on the same day! 😍