Haghpat Monastery, Zarni-Parni Cave Complex, Akhtala Fortress, Aramyants Castle, Sanahin Monastery
- Adult
- Child
This group excursion will last almost a whole day, but even after a long time you will be filled with positive impressions from it. It is dedicated to the Lori region. First, you will admire the 10th century Haghpat Monastery, where the famous ashugh Sayat-Nova lived and worked at the end of the 18th century. Next on the route is the majestic Zarni-Parni cave-fortress complex, where, according to some historical records, the famous scientist and philosopher Hovhannes Imastaser once lived and worked. Now the territory has been turned into a historical museum, where ancient rare agricultural tools and household items are exhibited. Then you will go to Akhtala Fortress, which is located on a plateau that at first glance resembles a peninsula, surrounded by deep gorges on three sides. You will visit the Aramyants Castle, one of the gems of Swiss architecture in Armenia. At the end of the program Visit Sanahin Monastery, where you can get acquainted with the mastery of 10th century architects. Thanks to the latter, the monastery was given a unique architectural solution, protecting it from the consequences of possible earthquakes. By the way, both Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries are included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Duration: 12-13 hours , Start time: 09:00
If you want to book an individual excursion to get detailed information, to get acquainted with the conditions and pricing policy, call the following number:
Phone: +374-10-612-999
Duration
13-14 Hours
Language
ENGLISH, RUSSIAN, PARSIAN
What to expect
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- See the beauties of Armenia on a long and exciting journey
- Visit monastic complexes included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List
- Observe a one-of-a-kind cave castle complex
- Experience the art of 10th-century architecture
- *~150 steps to climb to the complex
- *Take with you cash Drams: it is not always possible to pay for lunch in the restaurant by Credit Card
Travel Itinerary
1. Haghpat Monastery
Situated not far from Sanahin, Haghpat monastery has its significant place in the historical and cultural life of Armenia. It was built during the reign of king Ashot Bagratuni. Numerous valuable manuscripts and miniature paintings have been produced in the scriptorium of Haghpat for many centuries. In the 18th century the famous Armenian bard Sayat-Nova u sed to live and create in this monastery. The belfry with its unique architectural composition is of stunning interest. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
2. Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex
Zarni-Parni is a cave castle complex in Lori region. It is located in a forest canyon with a magnificent view of the Kayan fortress, which is close to the village of Haghpat, famous for its monastery. The complex consists of the "Zarni er" and "Parni er" castles, as well as the "Tsak er" cave. Some historical records note, that renowned scholar and philosopher Hovhannes Imastaser used to live and work in this cave. Currently the area is turned into a historical museum, where one can find number of rare ancient agricultural tools and household items. Near the cave there is a tavern and winery to enjoy local drinks and dishes of Armenian cuisine. Evening time can be well "spiced" with a splendid view from the observation deck over a bonfire (at an additional cost of 10 000 AMD).
Lunch stop
Optional lunch in the local traditional restaurant on own expense. One may choose between 3 different options: Option 1 (vegeterian) – 3500 AMD per person Option 2 – 3900 AMD per person Option 3 – 4500 AMD per person
3. Akhtala Fortress
The Akhtala fortress is situated in Lori district. It is constructed on a plateau resembling a peninsula, surrounded with deep gorges from three sides. In the 10th century the masons could exactly derive benefit from the nature in order to make the fortress more fortified. The fortress is strengthened with huge ramparts and there are two pyramid-shaped watchtowers, rising above from both sides of the main entrance. The monastery of Akhtala, comprised of three churches, is in the territory of the fortress.
4. Aramyants Castle
The Aramyants castle, one of the jewels of Swiss architecture, is situated in the town of Akhtala in Lori region. It is distinguished for its magnificent appearance and interesting history of 120 years. The castle belonged to Mikael Aramyants, a prominent Armenian businessman, living in Tbilisi. It was built for his daughter with pneumonia, since Akhtala has the best climate in the entire Caucasus region. Many famous people used to spend their holidays in the town, among them opera singer Fiodor Shalyapin, Armenian poet Hovhannes Tumanyan, spiritual and cultural figure Khrimyan Hayrik and others. The castle of Mikael Aramyants has its own place in the pages of Armenian history, as the declaration of the First Republic of Armenia was adopted here.
5. Sanahin Monastery
The monastery of Sanahin is on the right bank of Debed river. This architectural complex consists of several churches, seminary, book depository. The building of the seminary, which connects St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) and Allsaviour churches, was from the outset built to make the edifices more earthquake-resistant. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
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Booking conditions
The Price of the Group Tour is presented for participation of 1 person. The Group Tour is valid for the date mentioned in the confirmation only.
The average duration for each destination is mentioned on the Website as well as in the confirmation; however, the Tour may actually take up to 10% more or less of that time.
Age discounts may apply to Group Tours, if the Customer provides age proof document.
The preferred seats inside the vehicle are not reserved in advance.
In order for Us to organize participants' check-in for the Tour and settlement in the vehicles properly, the participants are expected to be at the head office of the Company (96, Nalbandyan street, 0010, Yerevan, RA) at least 30 minutes prior to the departure.
Citizens of certain countries must obtain a visa in order to travel to Georgia, and in some cases, they may need a return visa for Armenia as well. The Company does not have visa provision or support services. Visas are issued on the basis of existing international agreements between the Republic of Georgia and/or Republic of Armenia and the country of Your citizenship.
During Group Tours it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, preferably closed.
Regardless of the destination, it is preferable to take warm clothes as well, since the climate in the sites may differ from the climate in Yerevan.
When visiting churches, men and women are advised not to wear open clothes. For women, a scarf is desirable.
It is not allowed to bring pets within the scope of Group Tours.
The Company is not responsible for any of Your items left, lost, damaged or destructed in the vehicles and in the sites during Group Tours.
In case of certain Group Tours, depending on the destination and location, the transportation means may be unable to reach the destination, and the participants may need to walk some distance and/or climb some stairs. If the participants have difficulties walking or overcoming stairs, then they should verify in advance if destinations include such sites.
Apart from the stops listed in the itinerary of Group Tours, there may be additional stops with the consent of all the participants of the group.
During Group Tours, passengers have traffic accident insurance to compensate for actual damage to the passenger's health up to 1 300 000 AMD, based on documented expenses.