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Khor Virap, Garni, Geghard & Symphony of Stones Day Tour
Group day tour from Yerevan: Khor Virap facing Ararat, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, the Symphony of Stones and a lavash baking master class.
About this tour
Discover some of Armenia’s most iconic landmarks in one unforgettable day tour from Yerevan. This route combines ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, UNESCO-listed heritage, and impressive natural wonders.
The journey begins at Khor Virap Monastery, one of Armenia’s most important pilgrimage sites, famous for its deep connection with Saint Gregory the Illuminator and its spectacular view of Mount Ararat. From there.
Next, visit the Temple of Garni, the only standing pagan temple in Armenia and a remarkable example of Hellenistic architecture. Nearby, explore the dramatic Symphony of Stones, where natural basalt columns form one of Armenia’s most striking landscapes.
The tour continues to Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site partly carved into the rock, known for its unique architecture, spiritual atmosphere, and remarkable acoustics.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Armenia’s history, culture, religion, and nature in one well-planned day.
Itinerary
1 09:50 Khor Virap Monastery – Discover Armenia’s Sacred History
One of Armenia’s most important pilgrimage sites, known for its connection to Saint Gregory the Illuminator. It is famous for its historic underground dungeon and breathtaking view of Mount Ararat.
2 11:35 Geghard Monastery – Carved in Stone and Spirit
Nestled in a deep canyon, Geghard Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its churches and tombs carved directly into the surrounding cliffs. Founded in the 4th century, the complex embodies medieval Armenian religious architecture at its finest, with intricate stonework, khachkars, and chapels blending seamlessly with the natural rock formations. Visiting Geghard offers a spiritual and visual journey where nature and faith unite in breathtaking harmony.
3 13:05 Symphony of Stones – Nature’s Monumental Masterpiece
The Symphony of Stones, situated near Garni, is a stunning natural formation of basalt columns that rise like an enormous organ pipe. Created millions of years ago by volcanic activity, these geometric stone towers showcase the incredible artistry of nature. Visitors can walk along the patterned cliffs, marvel at the towering structures, and feel the raw power and beauty of Armenia’s geological heritage. It’s a unique destination where nature truly becomes art.
4 13:40 Garni Temple – A Glimpse of Pagan Armenia
Perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Azat River Gorge, the Garni Temple is Armenia’s only surviving Greco-Roman colonnaded structure. Built in the 1st century AD, this ancient pagan temple showcases Armenia’s pre-Christian architectural sophistication. Its elegant columns, intricate stone carvings, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains make Garni a symbol of the country’s rich historical tapestry and a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
5 15:10 Lunch and Lavash Baking
Enjoy a traditional Armenian lunch in a warm local setting, where you can taste authentic dishes and experience one of Armenia’s most beloved culinary traditions — lavash baking.
Watch how thin Armenian lavash is prepared and baked in a traditional tonir, and learn more about the customs connected with this centuries-old bread-making tradition. After the demonstration, enjoy freshly baked lavash together with your lunch.
What’s included
Included
- Guide service (if there are foreign participants, the tour may be conducted in two languages)
- Transport
- Lavash baking master class
- Bottled water
Not included
- Garni Temple Entrance Fee - 1500 AMD
- The Symphony of Stones entrance fee - 300 AMD
Pickup & Important information
FAQ
Which sites does the tour visit?
The tour visits Khor Virap Monastery, the Temple of Garni, the Symphony of Stones and Geghard Monastery. In one day it combines ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, UNESCO-listed heritage and natural wonders.
What is Khor Virap known for?
Khor Virap is one of Armenia's most important pilgrimage sites, famous for its deep connection with Saint Gregory the Illuminator and its spectacular view of Mount Ararat.
How much is this tour for one adult?
The price for one adult is 5,000 AMD with an Armenian-speaking guide and 9,000 AMD with a Russian- or English-speaking guide.
What are Garni, the Symphony of Stones and Geghard like?
The Temple of Garni is the only standing pagan temple in Armenia and a remarkable example of Hellenistic architecture. Nearby, the Symphony of Stones is a striking landscape of natural basalt columns. Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site partly carved into the rock, is known for its unique architecture, spiritual atmosphere and remarkable acoustics.
When does the tour run?
The tour runs every day until 2027-06-14, from 09:00 to 17:00.
Where is the meeting point?
The group meets at 1a Sayat-Nova Ave in Yerevan, where the tour also ends. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start: seats are not pre-assigned, so arriving early lets you pick your spot.
What does the price include?
The price includes guide service, transport, a lavash baking master class and bottled water. Meals are not included: you can bring your own food or pay on site.
How much are the entrance fees?
Entrance fees are not included: the Temple of Garni costs 1500 AMD and the Symphony of Stones 300 AMD. They are usually paid in cash on site, and you may skip a paid entrance and wait for the group outside.
In which languages is the tour guided?
The tour is guided in Armenian, English or Russian. If there are foreign participants, it may be conducted in two languages.
Can children join, and do they pay the full price?
There are no age restrictions. Children aged 0-3 go free, children aged 3-6 get a 50% discount, and from age 7 the full price applies.
Is there a group discount?
Yes, groups of 5 or more get 500 AMD off per person on day tours.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. Within 24 hours you get a 50% refund, and there is no refund after the tour starts.
Have questions?
Reviews
Сегодня впервые побывала на экскурсии "Хор Вирап, Гарни, Гегард и Симфония камней" от One Way Tour, и у меня остался только один вопрос: как жаль, что я не нашла эту компанию раньше! Поездка прошла просто великолепно. Программа насыщенная, но логистически всё организовано безупречно. Наш гид Тигран - потрясающий рассказчик с превосходным чувством юмора, благодаря которому дорога пролетела незаметно, а история мест оживала на глазах. Отдельная благодарность водителю Ваче за его невероятное мастерство, аккуратное вождение и чувство безопасности на дорогах. Огромное спасибо команде за этот незабываемый день и море эмоций! Обязательно поеду с вами снова.
Невероятная экскурсия с гидом Тиграном и водителем Ваче. Благодаря подходу гида к рассказу истории Армении , мы были очень проникнуты ею и впечатлены. Впервые столкнулись с таким грамотным, веселым и душевным гидом. Очень грамотно построен маршрут экскурсии, все было в меру и прослушивание истории и свободное время, чтобы запечатлеть локацию и насладиться эмоциями.
Detailed explanation, very knowledgeable guide (Hasmik), amazing tour plan, organization, professionalism. Our guide was definitely going the extra mile. Very smart, positive attitude. The driver was kind and driving carefully. Of course the sites we visited were beautiful. Organization was so professional. Thank you
