A Road Through the Centuries
The journey begins at the Charents Arch, a panoramic viewpoint over the Ararat Valley. In clear weather it offers a beautiful view of Mount Ararat.
The road then leads to the Azat Reservoir, surrounded by mountains. We stop here to enjoy the scenery and take photographs.
The next stop is the Temple of Garni, a monument of ancient architecture from the 1st century AD. It is one of the most unusual historical sites in Armenia, preserving the heritage of the pre-Christian era.
After Garni we descend into the gorge to the Symphony of Stones, natural basalt columns of remarkably regular shape, formed by nature through ancient geological processes.
We continue to Geghard Monastery. Its history goes back to the early Christian period, while the main surviving architectural ensemble dates from the 13th century. What makes Geghard distinctive are its churches and chambers, some of them carved directly into the rock. Geghard Monastery and the Upper Azat Valley are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
We finish the journey by getting to know one of Armenia's best-known traditions, the making of lavash. You will see how Armenian lavash is baked in a traditional tonir and taste it fresh.
This route suits those who are discovering Armenia for the first time and want to see its history, nature and national traditions in the space of a few hours.
It is a good choice for lovers of ancient architecture, mountain landscapes and beautiful spots for photographs, as well as for families with children and travellers who prefer a full excursion without long drives.
In 6–7 hours you will see a completely different Armenia: Ararat, a mountain reservoir, ancient Garni, the natural Symphony of Stones, rock-hewn Geghard and the traditional making of Armenian lavash.
Useful information
Booking is required
Participation in the excursion is possible only with an advance booking.
Please do not come to the meeting point without a confirmed reservation. The number of places in the group is limited, so the availability of free seats immediately before departure cannot be guaranteed.
To book, please contact Amaras Tour in advance and tell us:
- the name of the tour you have chosen
- your preferred date
- the number of participants
- WhatsApp / Telegram: +374 99 250 525
Your place in the group is considered secured only after your booking has been confirmed.
Meeting point and time
Meeting point: Yerevan, 51 Mesrop Mashtots Avenue — the lower part of the Matenadaran, next to the Bus Voyage stop, at the intersection of Koryun Street and Mashtots Avenue.
Please arrive at the meeting point 10–15 minutes before departure.
- Meeting time: 09:45
- Departure: 10:00
How to find our vehicle
The Amaras Tour vehicle will be waiting at the meeting point.
An AMARAS TOUR sign will be placed on the windscreen, so you can easily recognise our vehicle.
If you cannot see the vehicle or cannot find the meeting point, please contact us on WhatsApp or Telegram.
What is included in the price
- Comfortable transport along the whole route
- The services of a professional guide
- Guided commentary in Armenian, Russian or English
- Bottled water
- An Armenian treat from Amaras Tour
What is not included in the price
- Entrance tickets
- Lunch and additional meals
- Personal expenses
Entrance tickets
Entrance tickets are not included in the price of the excursion and are purchased separately on site.
To receive the child or senior discount we recommend carrying a document confirming your age or your entitlement to the discount.
- Garni Temple: adults 1 500 ֏, children under 11 free, seniors 750 ֏ (50% discount)
- Symphony of Stones: adults 300 ֏, children under 11 free, 50% discount for seniors
Lavash master class and meal stop
A stop for an Armenian lavash baking master class is included in the route.
You will be able to see the traditional process of baking lavash in a tonir and get to know one of Armenia's best-known gastronomic traditions.
A stop for rest and a meal is also planned during the trip.
Lunch is not included in the price of the excursion and is paid for separately.
Visiting Geghard Monastery
Geghard is a working monastery, so during the visit we ask you to treat religious traditions with respect and to observe the rules of conduct.
We recommend choosing clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Overly revealing clothing should be avoided.
Inside the monastery we ask you to keep quiet. Services, weddings and other religious ceremonies may be taking place during your visit.
What to bring with you
For a comfortable trip we recommend:
- comfortable non-slip shoes
- a hat in hot and sunny weather
- a light sweater or windbreaker in the cooler seasons
- sun protection in summer
- a small snack if needed
- personal essentials and documents for obtaining entrance ticket discounts
There is no need to bring bottled water — water is provided by Amaras Tour during the excursion.
Duration and return
The approximate duration of the excursion is 6–7 hours.
The duration may vary slightly depending on traffic, weather conditions, the time the group spends at the sites and other circumstances on the day of the trip.
The order in which the sights are visited may be changed for organisational reasons, while the main points of the announced route are kept.
Important before the trip
Please make sure in advance that your booking has been confirmed by Amaras Tour.
Coming directly to the departure point without an advance reservation is not recommended — there may be no free seats in the vehicle.
If you are travelling with children or elderly participants, or have any other needs that should be taken into account when organising the trip, please tell us when booking.
Route
- 1Charents Arch
- 2Azat Reservoir
- 3Garni Temple
- 4Symphony of Stones
- 5Geghard Monastery
- 6Lavash master class