Duration is approximate. The order and timing of stops may change according to traffic, weather and site opening arrangements.
Included
Transport along the selected route in an agreed vehicle
Drinking water in every vehicle
Organisation of the visits and stops listed in the programme
Not included
Admission to Garni Temple and the Symphony of Stones
Lavash-baking demonstrations or paid workshops in Garni
Additional local transport or off-road rides in Garni Gorge, if requested
Meals and other drinks along the route; drinking water in the vehicle is included
A separate guide or interpreter unless specifically confirmed in the package
Personal purchases and souvenirs
An additional service is included only when selected and confirmed in your final package. The vehicle, departure and return points, and access to sites are agreed before booking.
Tour itinerary
01
Garni Temple
Garni introduces Armenia’s pre-Christian heritage through a Greco-Roman-style colonnade overlooking the Azat Gorge. The grounds also contain remains of an ancient fortress and royal baths. Take care on the temple’s tall steps. Explore the grounds of Garni Temple, its stone colonnade and mountain views. There is time to walk around and take photographs.
Look closely at the proportions of the columns and carved cornices, which contrast with the Christian monasteries on this route. Walk around the temple before visiting the gorge viewpoints to appreciate how the building relates to its landscape.
02
Geghard Monastery
Parts of Geghard are carved directly into the cliff, with sculpted entrances, khachkars and resonant stone chambers. Its name refers to the spear remembered in Christian tradition. Respectful clothing and quiet behaviour are appropriate at this active religious site. Walk through Geghard Monastery and its rock-carved chambers. The stop combines architecture with the scenery of the gorge.
Geghard and the Upper Azat Valley are a UNESCO World Heritage property. Compare the freestanding church buildings with the rock-carved rooms: changing light, the texture of the stone and the acoustics give each space a distinct character.
03
Symphony of Stones
These polygonal basalt columns formed as volcanic lava cooled, creating shapes resembling a giant pipe organ. The path below the cliffs offers changing views of the Azat River gorge. Comfortable shoes with good grip suit the walk. Visit the basalt columns of the Symphony of Stones in the Azat Gorge. This stop includes a walk and time for photographs.
The columns vary along the gorge, forming vertical, leaning and curved arrangements. Step back from the rock face for a photograph that captures the scale of the stone “organ”. The visit follows the walking path and does not involve climbing the columns.
