Exploring the ancient wonders of Armenia’s Kotayk province is a captivating experience, and this private tour promises to immerse visitors in the region’s rich cultural heritage. From the striking Greco-Roman Garni Temple to the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery carved into the mountainside, the tour guides guests through a tapestry of history and natural beauty. With air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and hassle-free pickup and drop-off, this 5.5-hour journey offers a seamless opportunity to discover the symphony of stones that have captivated travelers for centuries. Yet, the true allure of this tour lies in the stories waiting to be uncovered, inviting visitors to delve deeper into Armenia’s captivating past.
Key Points
- This 5.5-hour private tour covers visits to the Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, and the Garni Gorge, known for its Symphony of Stones.
- The tour includes a professional English or Russian-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and bottled water, with pickup and drop-off in Yerevan’s central district.
- The Garni Temple features captivating Greco-Roman architecture and is dedicated to the sun god Mithra, dating back to the 1st century AD.
- Geghard Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a church carved directly into the mountainside and an intricate network of caves and underground chapels.
- The Garni Gorge offers stunning vistas of basalt columns formed by rapid cooling of volcanic lava and opportunities for hiking and exploring the protected environment.
Tour Details
This private tour to Garni, Geghard, and the Symphony of Stones typically lasts 5.5 hours. The tour starts and ends in Kentron, the central district of Yerevan.
Guests can expect a professional English or Russian-speaking guide, air-conditioned vehicles, and bottled water throughout the journey.
The itinerary includes visits to the Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, and the Garni Gorge, allowing guests to explore these iconic Armenian landmarks.
While entrance fees to Garni and the Symphony of Stones aren’t included, the tour provides free pickup and drop-off within Yerevan, as well as the flexibility to make additional stops upon request.
With this comprehensive package, travelers can enjoy Armenia’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.
Pickup and Dropoff
The tour begins with pickup from Kentron, the central district of Yerevan, and concludes with drop-off at the same location. This ensures a seamless experience for guests, as they’re conveniently transported to and from the heart of the city.
The pickup and drop-off service is included in the tour package, providing a hassle-free start and finish to the day’s adventures. Guests don’t have to worry about navigating the city or finding their own transportation, as the professional driver handles all the logistics.
This allows them to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the cultural exploration of Garni, Geghard, and the Symphony of Stones.
Garni Temple
Nestled in the heart of the Kotayk province, Garni Temple stands as a captivating relic of Armenia’s Hellenistic heritage, captivating visitors with its well-preserved Greco-Roman architecture and stunning natural surroundings.
This pagan temple, dedicated to the sun god Mithra, dates back to the 1st century AD and is the only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building in the entire Caucasus region.
During the tour, visitors will explore the temple’s intricate design, admire the striking basalt formations, and learn about its fascinating history, including its destruction and subsequent reconstruction in the 1970s.
The Garni Temple offers a unique glimpse into Armenia’s rich cultural and architectural past.
Geghard Monastery
Perched atop a rocky outcrop, Geghard Monastery commands a stunning view of the surrounding Kotayk province, its medieval architecture seamlessly blending with the dramatic natural landscape.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a number of notable elements:
The main church, dating back to the 4th century, is carved directly into the mountainside, a testament to the skill of its builders.
Visitors can explore the intricate network of caves and underground chapels, some of which were used as royal tombs.
The ornately carved khatchkars (cross-stones) scattered throughout the compound are considered some of the finest examples of Armenian medieval stonework.
Exploring Geghard Monastery offers a glimpse into Armenia’s rich religious heritage and the country’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Garni Gorge
Descending from the Geghard Monastery, visitors find themselves immersed in the dramatic Garni Gorge, a natural wonder carved by the Azat River over millennia. This breathtaking gorge is adorned with basalt columns, formed by the rapid cooling of volcanic lava, creating a mesmerizing "Symphony of Stones." Visitors can explore the gorge, admiring the interplay of light and shadow on the unique rock formations.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Geology | Basalt columns formed by rapid cooling of volcanic lava |
| River | Azat River carving the gorge over thousands of years |
| Viewpoints | Stunning vistas of the gorge and surrounding landscape |
| Hiking | Trails along the gorge offer opportunities for exploration |
| Wildlife | Diverse flora and fauna thrive in the protected environment |
Inclusions
The private tour typically includes a professional English or Russian speaking guide to accompany visitors throughout the excursion.
In addition, drivers with air-conditioned vehicles are provided, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.
The tour also includes the following:
- Bottled water to keep guests hydrated
- Free pick-up and drop-off within Yerevan
- Vehicle and passengers insurance for peace of mind
These inclusions are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors exploring the historical and natural wonders of Garni, Geghard, and the Symphony of Stones.
The tour is comprehensive, with the guide and transportation catering to the needs of your throughout the 5.5-hour adventure.
Exclusions
While the private tour includes a range of amenities, there are also some exclusions visitors should be aware of. The entrance fees for both the Garni Temple and Symphony of Stones aren’t covered, amounting to 1,700 AMD or approximately $5 USD.
Plus, any significant deviations from the planned route may incur additional charges, and audio guides aren’t provided as part of the tour package.
The tour does, however, offer free pick-up and drop-off within Yerevan, as well as insurance for the vehicle and passengers. Visitors can also request extra stops along the route, though these may be subject to additional fees.
Itinerary
The private tour begins with a visit to the Garni Temple, where guests spend approximately 70 minutes exploring the ancient pagan temple and its stunning architectural features.
Following the Garni Temple, the tour then proceeds to the Geghard Monastery, where visitors are allotted another 70 minutes to discover the medieval Armenian monastery and its intricate rock-cut chapels.
The final stop on the itinerary is the Garni Gorge, where guests can admire the natural wonder of the ‘Symphony of Stones’ for around 40 minutes.
The itinerary includes:
- Garni Temple (70 minutes)
- Geghard Monastery (70 minutes)
- Garni Gorge (40 minutes)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be customized. Clients can request extra stops along the route or make other adjustments to the itinerary, though significant deviations may incur additional charges as per the tour details.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is up to 2 people. The tour price is from $3,686 per group for up to 2 people. Larger groups may require a different tour or additional arrangements.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
This tour doesn’t mention any discounts or special offers. The price is fixed at $3,686 per group up to 2 people. There may be other package deals or promotional offers available, but they aren’t specified in the tour details provided.
Do the Guides Provide Historical and Cultural Insights?
The guides provide detailed historical and cultural insights about the sites visited. They share fascinating information about the significance, architecture, and traditions associated with each location to enhance the tour experience.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are typically allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on private tours. The tour details indicate that bottled water is provided, but there’s no restriction mentioned about bringing additional personal refreshments.
Recap
This private tour offers a captivating journey through the cultural and natural highlights of Armenia’s Kotayk province.
Visitors will explore the renowned Garni Temple, UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, and the stunning Garni Gorge, accompanied by a professional guide and provided with hassle-free transportation and bottled water.
The 5.5-hour experience allows guests to enjoy the region’s remarkable history and breathtaking landscapes.
