The journey begins at Charents Arch — a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Ararat Valley. On a clear day, it offers a magnificent view of Mount Ararat.
The road then leads to the Azat Reservoir, surrounded by mountains. We'll make a stop here to enjoy the scenery and take photographs.
The next stop is Garni Temple, a monument of 1st-century AD classical architecture. It is one of Armenia's most remarkable historical sites, preserving the heritage of the pre-Christian era.
After Garni, we descend into the gorge to the Symphony of Stones — natural basalt columns of astonishingly regular shape, formed by ancient geological processes.
We continue on to Geghard Monastery. Its history dates back to the early Christian period, and the main surviving architectural ensemble dates from the 13th century. Geghard's distinctive feature is its churches and chambers, some of which are carved directly into the rock. Geghard Monastery and the Upper Azat Valley are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
We'll end the journey with an introduction to one of Armenia's most famous traditions — the making of lavash. You'll see how Armenian lavash is baked in a traditional tonir, and taste it fresh.
This route is perfect for those experiencing Armenia for the first time and who want to see its history, nature and national traditions in just a few hours.
It's a great choice for lovers of ancient architecture, mountain scenery and beautiful photo spots, as well as for families with children and travelers who prefer an eventful excursion without long drives.
In 6–7 hours you'll see a completely different side of 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
You can only join the excursion with a booking made in advance. Please do not come to the meeting point without a confirmed reservation, as seats cannot be guaranteed on the day.
To book, contact Amaras Tour ahead of time with the tour you have chosen, your travel date and the number of people. Once we confirm availability we will send you everything you need to complete the booking.
- WhatsApp / Telegram: +374 99 250 525
After your booking is confirmed your seat in the group is held for you.
Meeting point and time
Meeting point: 51 Mesrop Mashtots Avenue, Yerevan, at the lower side of the Matenadaran, next to the Bus Voyage stop, where Koryun Street meets Mashtots Avenue.
Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before departure so you have time to find the vehicle and take your seat. The excursion leaves on schedule.
- Meeting time: 09:50
- Departure: 10:00
Finding our vehicle
The Amaras Tour vehicle will be waiting at the meeting point. It carries an AMARAS TOUR sign in the windscreen, so it is easy to spot.
What the price includes
- Comfortable transport for the whole route
- A professional guide
- Commentary in Armenian, Russian or English
- Bottled water
- An Armenian treat from Amaras Tour
What the price does not include
- Entrance tickets
- Lunch and other meals
- Personal expenses
Entrance tickets
- Garni Temple, adults — 1,500 AMD
- Garni Temple, children under 11 — free
- Garni Temple, seniors — 750 AMD (50% discount)
- Symphony of Stones, adults — 300 AMD
- Symphony of Stones, children under 11 — free
- Symphony of Stones, seniors — 50% discount
Entrance tickets are bought and paid for separately on site.
Meals
Lunch is not included in the price. Time is set aside for a meal during the tour, and your guide will suggest a suitable place to fit the programme and the timing.
You are welcome to bring a snack of your own.
Visiting churches and monasteries
The excursion visits working religious sites, so we ask you to dress respectfully and to follow the rules of conduct.
Clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended. Please keep quiet inside the churches and bear in mind that services, weddings and other ceremonies may be taking place during your visit.
What to bring
We recommend bringing:
- comfortable shoes
- a hat in hot weather
- a light jumper or windbreaker in cooler months
- a snack if you would like one
Bottled water is provided by the company during the excursion.
Duration and programme
The approximate duration of the excursion is given in the tour description. The actual time of return may shift slightly depending on traffic, the weather and how long the group spends at each site.
The order in which the sights are visited may change for practical reasons, but the main points of the published route are always kept.
Route
- 1Charents Arch
- 2Azat Reservoir
- 3Garni Temple
- 4Symphony of Stones
- 5Geghard Monastery
- 6Lavash Masterclass