From Yerevan: Garni, Geghard, Lake Sevan & Sevanavank Tour (Without a guide) Garni-Symphony of Stones, Geghard & Sevan
ID: GYG1548130-2358041
Category:
Country: Armenia
Duration:
06:00 hours
Description
Explore Armenia’s highlights: 1st-century Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones, UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, and scenic Lake Sevan with Sevanavank. Comfortable transport included.
Embark on a captivating day trip through Armenia’s most celebrated cultural landmarks and scenic natural wonders. Starting from Yerevan, your route journeys east into the Kotayk Province before heading north towards the striking waters of Lake Sevan.
Your first stop is Garni Temple, the only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building in Armenia and the former Soviet region. Built in the 1st century AD and dedicated to the sun god Mihr, the site overlooks the deep Azat River gorge.
Descending into the Garni Gorge, you will witness the famous Symphony of Stones. This astonishing geological formation features massive vertical basalt columns hanging along the canyon cliff faces, resembling a majestic church organ.
Continue further into the canyon to reach Geghard Monastery, a unique UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded in the 4th century, parts of the monastic complex are directly hollowed out from the surrounding rock cliffs, famed for its ancient khachkars (stone crosses) and incredible acoustic chambers.
After exploring the historic treasures of Kotayk, head north toward Lake Sevan, one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in Eurasia. Enjoy the fresh alpine breeze and panoramic mountain surroundings.
Ascend the stairs on the Sevan Peninsula to reach Sevanavank Monastery, founded in 874 AD by Princess Mariam. The black volcanic stone churches offer sweeping views over the expansive blue waters of the lake before your return drive to Yerevan.
Highlights
- Explore the Artashat Archaeological Reserve, a former royal capital
- Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Azat Reservoir nestled among hills
- Visit the 1st-century Garni Temple,the only Greco-Roman building in the Caucasus
- Descend into the Garni Gorge to see the Symphony of Stones basalt columns
- Visit the Lake Sevan
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Wear comfortable shoes for walking
Bring a camera for photography
Dress appropriately for the weather
INCLUDED
- Air-conditioned comfortable transport
- Professional driver and live English/Russian speaking guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
- Visit to Garni Temple
- Visit to Symphony of Stones
- Visit to Geghard Monastery
NOT INCLUDED
- Entrance tickets (Garni Temple and Symphony of Stones)
- Lunch and food expenses
- Personal expenses and gratuities
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.