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
Private Half Day Tour
We booked this tour for a family of 6 adults and 7 children, and we were lucky to have Samvel as our tour guide and Khachik (hope I’m spelling it correctly!) as our driver. Samvel was incredibly knowledgeable, eloquent, and well-spoken, but what really stood out was how patient, kind, and wonderful he was with the children. He constantly went out of his way to explain everything we were seeing and made the experience so engaging for everyone. Even Khachik was contributing great information throughout the tour, which made the whole experience even better. Managing a group of 13 people with 7 young kids is not easy, but these guys absolutely aced it. Huge thank you to both Samvel and Khachik for making the trip so memorable. As for the operator, Hyur Service was extremely easy and professional to deal with. We booked multiple tours with them and had plenty of last-minute changes, all of which they happily accommodated. Their buses were also very clean and comfortable. Highly recommended, and definitely ask for Samvel and Khachik on your next tour!
Oh, great!
The tour was very enjoyable, driver Gregor, and Guide Samwell very wonderfully organized the tour!!! Samvel talked very interestingly, we learned a lot about the history of Armenia. It's all very well! Beautiful places, history, views of fire!
Excellent
The tour was absolutely amazing, we enjoyed stunning nature, delicious food and overall experience was just great. Special thanks to our driver Hrach, he was very friendly and polite during the journey. Totally would recommend!
Gegard Garney
Beautiful tour, beautiful guides, very grateful. Special thanks to driver Araik and guide Jasmine.
Garni, Geghard and Symphony of Stones
Superb tour by guide Anoosha and driver Karen. Very knowledgeable and friendly with extra bonus of Anoosha singing beautifully to demonstrate the acoustics of the monastery. Highly recommended.