Private Tour: Garni, Geghard, Tsaghkadzor & Kecharis
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Garni Temple, Armenia's only pagan temple
- Visit Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Discover Tsaghkadzor's scenic beauty and Kecharis Monastery
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Azat River Gorge
- Experience traditional Armenian culture and history
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Yerevan
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- 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.
Tsaghkadzor city (translated as valley of flowers) is considered to be one of the most popular winter resorts of Armenia. It is one of the places of our mountainous country, where the beauty of the nature appears with its whole variety. Tsaghkadzor is situated in Kotayk region, 60 km north from Yerevan, on the eastern slope of Teghenis Mountain, surrounded with virginal woods and alpine meadows. Optional: free time or ropeway ride
Kecharis monastery is in the north-western part of Tsaghkadzor. It was built in 11-13th centuries. The monastery consists of four churches and a half-destroyed mausoleum of Grigorius Pahlavuni, who financed the building of the monastery.
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
- Please inform the operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and architecture.
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
Wonderful. The guide and driver were super helpful, informed. Really enjoyed it.
Amazing, really enjoyed it!!
Jasmine (tour guide) and Avet (driver) were amazing! Top notch tour guide!
Jasmine (tour guide) and Avet (driver) both exceeded my expectations. Jasmine was so well informed, professional and educated about all the places we visited. Moreover, she went above and beyond to ensure we had a great experience. She answered all our questions with amazing depth of knowledge. One of the best tour guides I’ve had in a very long time.
Interesting tour
We took a wonderful tour to the Temple of Garni, a symphony of rocks and so on on on May 18. It was very interesting and informative, comfortable, thanks to driver David and tour guide Haik. To be able to choose your seats on the bus, come in advance, by 9:30 it was almost all taken.
Wonderful day discovery in private tour with kind and professional Arev and Hrach 🇦🇲
Great day out to Garni, Geghard and then lake Sevan with excellent driver Hrach and wonderful guide (and hidden talent signer) Arev. We recommend highly
A land full of passion
A short holiday of culture, spirituality and good food. Our guide Liana accompanied us 3 days among monasteries and breathtaking landscapes all seasoned with passion and love for this wonderful land. An unforgettable memory! Thank you.