Private Khor Virap, Garni, and Geghard Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Khor Virap Monastery with stunning views of Mount Ararat
- Visit the ancient Garni Temple, Armenia's only Greco-Roman colonnaded building
- Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Geghard Monastery
- Enjoy a scenic drive through Armenia's picturesque countryside
- Learn about Armenia's rich history and culture from a knowledgeable guide
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Yerevan
- Guided tours of Khor Virap Monastery, Garni Temple, and Geghard Monastery
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
Important information
Know before you book
- This is a private tour; the price is per vehicle, not per person.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off are included; please provide your accommodation details upon booking.
- The tour operates in English; please ensure you understand the language.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
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
Excellent agency, to be recommended
I booked several day trips departing from Yerevan. Everything was perfect. Good means of transportation and excellent drivers. Precision in managing appointments. The guides turned out to be all above expectations, kind, friendly, and available for any issue. Absolutely to be recommended
Great private tour for the freedom
I booked the private tour from Hyur’s official website - which is much cheaper than the one advertised on Tripadvisor (I suppose TA takes commission). The customer service contacted me three days prior to confirm the details and answered all kinds of my questions. The driver Arman was very professional and polite and went above and beyond to take me to bus station twice to purchase an intercity mini bus ticket. He couldn’t speak much English but whenever it’s something important he called his office to translate to me to make sure there is no misunderstanding. At each place, I got to spend as much time as I wanted and enjoyed the great views and architectures of the monasteries. Highly recommend this private tour to people who want to travel at their own pace.
Best experience in Armenia
Amazing tour with the best driver who did everything to make our tour nice and memorable experience! Thanks a lot to our driver Hrach for this great discovery of the beautiful Armenia! 🙏🏻🫶🏻
Truly top-notch experience
Driver Aracel was very accommodating and attentive!!
WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
From the very first contacts via WhatsApp, we found great availability and professionalism. We requested a customized private tour, adding some stops to the tour proposed on the website, and they accommodated every one of our requests. The added value of the tour was our driver Mr. Aracel, who arrived right on time at our hotel and accompanied us with his smile and great professionalism on a wonderful day. Always attentive to our every need. He made us experience an unforgettable time in the magnificent places of Armenia, adding very genuine and authentic experiences to our tour. Thank you, Aracel, and thank you, Hyur Service. We will return to Armenia for another tour with you!!