Garni & Geghard: History, Nature & Lavash Baking
The Garni-Geghard tour is the most popular day trip from Yerevan, typically taking 4 to 6 hours. It covers the highlights of the Kotayk region, transitioning from pagan antiquity to medieval Christian architecture and unique geological formations.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your hotel in Yerevan
- Your location address
Voghjaberd ( Charents Arch )
Built in 1957 by architect Rafael Israelyan, it is dedicated to the poet Yeghishe Charents.
The arch perfectly frames Mount Ararat. It features an inscription from Charents’ famous poem: "In all the world, there's no white peak like that of Ararat."
Garni Temple
A Greco-Roman colonnaded temple perched on a triangular cliff overlooking the Azat River gorge.
Built in the 1st century AD (approx. 77 AD) by King Tiridates I, likely dedicated to Mihr, the god of the sun. It is the only surviving pagan temple in Armenia and the entire former Soviet Union. It features 24 Ionic columns and was reconstructed in the 1970s after a 1679 earthquake.
Symphony of Stones
A massive cliff face composed of hexagonal and pentagonal basalt columns that look like a giant pipe organ (often called the "Basalt Organ").
These were created by the slow cooling of volcanic lava over 127,000 years ago.
Geghard Monastery
Set at the end of a winding road in the Upper Azat Valley.
A UNESCO World Heritage site where many of the churches and tombs are cut directly into the mountain rock.
The Spear: Originally named Ayrivank ("Monastery in the Cave"), its name was changed to Geghardavank ("Monastery of the Spear") because it once housed the Holy Spear that pierced Jesus at the Crucifixion (now kept in the Etchmiadzin treasury).
The main cathedral dates to 1215, but the complex contains rock-cut chapels with incredible acoustics, often used for choir performances.
Lavash baking masterclass.
in Goght village, where you can watch the traditional bread being baked in a tonir (underground clay oven).
Ending Point
Yerevan Republich square or Your accommodation.
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Hotel pick up
Private transportation (TOYOTA CAMRY V70 2018)
Professional Driver
Gasoline,Toll and parking Fees.
Garni Temple entrance fee 1500 AMD.
Symphony OF stones entrance fee 300 AMD.
Personal expenses.
Tour Important Information
This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Chris K.
Hello, I am Chris, a professional Driver. If You Plan to Visit Armenia. Touring with me it will be interesting, funny and exciting.
To me, visiting a place isn't just about seeing a destination, it's about feeling the pulse of the place and leaving with a story to tell.
I assure you that together we will have Happy times ,beautiful photos and lasting memories.
Armenia indeed is a must see country and i Would enjoy if you would choose me as your Driver to explore it.
I am native Armenian speaker, fluent in English, Arabic, Turkish and conversational in French.
SEE YOU IN ARMENIA
Wish you Happy, SAFE, and exciting times ahead.
Reviews
Maxi B.
“Fascinating place”
Great driver and guide, who knows the road to Orgov and the buildings at ROT54 very well. Also punctual, polite and communicative. Highly recommended to explore this fascinating place.
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Chris K.
Thank you so much for the glowing review! It was an absolute pleasure guiding you out to Orgov and exploring the fascinating ROT-54 Safe travels on your next adventures, and if you ever want to explore more hidden gems around Armenia, you know who to call!
Amy D.
“Personalized tour of Etchmiadzin and Mother Armenia”
Book Chris when touring Etchmiadzin, St. Gayane, and St. Hripsime - his expertise and knowledge of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the history of the church, saints, and practices are invaluable and elevate your tour of these special religious sites. In addition to his warm demeanor, he was willing to accommodate my special requests and tailor my experience to fit my needs, which I greatly appreciated. In addition, he speaks numerous languages (his English is perfect), drives his own (very clean) car, and navigates the crazy traffic and roads in Yerevan well - I felt very safe and well taken care of during my tour. Thank you Chris for making my visit to Armenia unforgettable!
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Chris K.
Thank you AMY so much for those kind words! It was truly a pleasure to show you around Etchmiadzin and the beautiful churches of St. Gayane and St. Hripsime. Sharing the deep history and traditions of the Armenian Apostolic Church is a passion of mine, so I’m thrilled to hear that the insights added a special layer to your visit. I always strive to make sure my guests feel comfortable, safe, and heard, so I'm glad I could accommodate your requests and navigate the Yerevan roads smoothly for you! Knowing that I helped make your time in Armenia unforgettable is the best reward I could ask for. You are welcome back anytime! Best regards, Chris ։)
Luke S.
“The. Best. ”
Such an amazing unique experience! One of my favorite things in Armenia! Chris is so amazing and super fun!
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Chris K.
Welcome to Armenia Luke. And thank u so much for your good review :)
$100/ per group
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A Scenic tour of lake Sevan's shores. Noratus, Hayravank, Mikayelyan family farm, Sevanavank.
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Nature’s Trio: Exploring Tsaghkadzor, Lake Sevan, and Dilijan.
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