Private: Garni, Geghard, Symphony of stones, Sevan, Dilijan Garni, Geghard, Symphony of stones, Sevan, Dilijan

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ID: GYG559739-960095
Category:
Country: Armenia

Duration: 11:30 hours


Description

You will discover some of the most popular attractions of Armenia throughout this private tour.
The monument "Arch of Charents" was created by architect Raphael Israelyan. One day on his way to Garni he stopped at this place and, noticing that a picturesque view opens from there to the Mount Ararat, he decided to build an arch as a "temple" to Ararat. The Arch was constructed in 1957, on occasion of the 60th anniversary of the great Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents. It is said, that the poet was also fond of walking around this place. It is like a picture frame, from where a mesmerizing view opens to the Ararat valley with Masis floating in distance.

The pagan temple of Garni is supposed to be built in 77 AD. It is located in Kotayk region of Armenia at the left bank of Azat River. The temple was dedicated to God Mihr, the Armenian pagan god of light and the Sun. The temple is constructed of grey basalt. It is supported by a total of twenty-four 6.54-metre high columns of the Ionic order: six in the front and back and eight on the sides. The 24 columns symbolize the 24 hours. The complex was strategically built upon a promontory above high cliffs and surrounded by walls, making it a powerful fortress. The complex included a Roman bath, a royal summer palace and a 7th-century church. The Roman bath contains a mosaic crafted from fifteen different colours of natural stone that bears the inscription. “We worked but received nothing”.

The name "Geghard'' means spear in Armenian. For centuries, the Geghard Monastery was the
repository of the actual spear from which the monastery derived its name. Geghard monastery is an
architectural gem among the Armenian churches and monasteries. Founded in the 4th century, it
acquired its present appearance in the 13th century. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is
one of the most majestic structures in Armenia. The Monastery of Geghard contains a number of
churches and tombs, most of them cut into the rock, which illustrate the very peak of Armenian
medieval architecture.

The Symphony of Stones or “Basalt Organ” is a natural monument located in the basin of the Azat River, in the area of Garni village. It is included in the list of RA natural monuments. The monument consists of huge symmetric hexagon and pentagon basalt columns (nearly 50 meters high), which seem to be handmade due to their amazing symmetry. These stones hanging against the gravity resemble an organ, which explains why it is also referred to as “Basalt Organ Pipes”. The Azat River flows through the gorge, filling the stone splendor with the sound of water.

Sevan, Dilijan offers an immersive exploration of the diverse Armenian landscapes, from desert to dense forests. The tour includes visiting the ancient Sevanavank Monastery, a sail on the alpine Sevan Lake, and a journey to the forest-enclosed Haghartsin Monastery in the Tavush region. Additionally, it presents a glimpse of 19th-century Dilijan through the Old Dilijan complex and statue of Mimino.

Highlights

  • Discover the religious and cultural history of Armenia on this day trip
  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Geghard
  • Dive into diverse Armenian nature, from desert to lush forests
  • Discover historical relics such as Sevanavank and Haghartsin monasteries
  • See the 19th-century Old Dilijan Complex

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
In case of bad weather, for your safety we will not descend to the gorge Symphony of Stones.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

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

Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.