Lake Kari, Amberd Fortress, Vahramashen, Saghmosavank

Mount Aragats & Amberd, Saghmosavank

Private 5–6-hour tour from Yerevan: high-altitude Lake Kari on Mount Aragats, Amberd Fortress, Vahramashen Church and Saghmosavank Monastery.

Half day Armenian, English, Russian Pickup Free cancellation no later than 24 hours before departure. If you cancel later, the money is not refunded.

About this tour

Duration 5-6 hours.

Lake Kari, or "Stone Lake," is a breathtaking high-altitude lake on Mount Aragats, serving as the source of the Arkashen River. Nearby, Amberd Fortress, a 7th-century medieval stronghold, offers stunning views and historical significance. The 10th-century Vahramashen church features intricate stonework, while Saghmosavank, a 13th-century monastery overlooking a gorge, showcases Armenia's rich ecclesiastical heritage. Together, these sites highlight the country's natural beauty and cultural history.

Itinerary

1 Stop 1 Lake Kari

There are many ponds on Mount Aragats, one of which is Kari Lake, located at an altitude of 3207 meters. Kari Lake, formed by ice formations, has a depth of up to 8 meters and very cold water. The surface of the lake is 0.12 km/square. The Arkashen River starts from the western side of the lake.

Lake Kari Lake Kari: photo 2
2 Stop 2 Amberd Fortress

Amberd, located 2300 meters above sea level, has been inhabited since the Stone Age, and today's castle was built in the 10th century. Located at the confluence of two rivers, the castle remained exceptionally impregnable for many centuries and fell only in the 14th century, after which it reached the present day with minor changes. The castle consists of a fort, St. Astvatsatsin Church, 1026, a chapel, a bath, and otherworldly buildings.

Amberd Fortress Amberd Fortress: photo 2 Amberd Fortress: photo 3
3 Stop 3 Vahramashen

Vahramashen Church is a medieval Armenian church located in the village of Vahramashen, near Aparan, in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia. It was built in the 10th century by the Vahramid family, which gave the church its name. The church is an example of classical Armenian architecture, with a large central dome and a cruciform design. It is renowned for its distinctive stone carvings and elegant interior, which includes a well-preserved khachkar (cross-stone). Vahramashen is a significant cultural and historical site and serves as a testament to Armenia’s architectural heritage from the medieval period.

Vahramashen Vahramashen: photo 2 Vahramashen: photo 3
4 Stop 4 Saghmosavank Monastery

There are so many structures dating back to the 13th century in Armenia. This one is the Saghmosavank. This monastic complex, unique in its name, is the only one worldwide that got its name from church songs and psalms. As a result of the fruitful construction activity of the medieval Armenian ruler Vachutyan dynasty, this monastery has two churches, one of which was also a library. The library and the vestibule, built with complex engineering and architectural solutions, are especially notable.

Saghmosavank Monastery Saghmosavank Monastery: photo 2 Saghmosavank Monastery: photo 3

What’s included

Included

  • Transport

Pickup & Important information

Pickup from your hotel or any address in Yerevan
Cancellation policy: Free cancellation no later than 24 hours before departure. If you cancel later, the money is not refunded.

FAQ

Which places does the tour visit?

The tour visits Lake Kari, Amberd Fortress, the Vahramashen church and Saghmosavank Monastery, in that order.

What is Lake Kari?

Lake Kari, or Stone Lake, is a high-altitude lake on Mount Aragats and the source of the Arkashen River.

How much is this tour for one adult?

The price starts from 33,152 AMD per person; the final price depends on the group size, the car and the guide's language.

What is special about Amberd, Vahramashen and Saghmosavank?

Amberd is a 7th-century medieval stronghold with stunning views, the 10th-century Vahramashen church features intricate stonework, and Saghmosavank is a 13th-century monastery overlooking a gorge.

How long does the tour take?

It is a half-day tour lasting 5-6 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

Pickup from your hotel or any address in Yerevan.

When can I take this tour?

It is a private tour that runs on request, on the date you choose.

What is included in the price?

The price includes transport. Meals and entrance fees are not included: you may bring your own food or pay on site, and entrance fees are usually paid in cash on site.

In which languages is the tour available?

The tour is available in Armenian, English and Russian.

Can children take part?

Yes, there are no age restrictions.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation no later than 24 hours before departure. If you cancel later, the money is not refunded.

What happens if the weather is bad?

In case of severe weather, the tour may be postponed or refunded.

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Top attractions on this tour

1Lake Kari 2Amberd Fortress 3Vahramashen 4Saghmosavank Monastery

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