Group Tour: Khor Virap, Noravank, Tatev monasteries (wayback on Ropeway)
Description
This 14-15-hour tour visits Khor Virap monastery with its magnificent view to Bibical mount Ararat. Next stop is at the monastery complex Noravank, unique in its construction as the Church of Holy Mother of God is the only two-storied monastery in Armenia. Next is Tatev monastery, a spiritual center that had outstanding scientific and political significance. The monastery is surrounded by beautiful nature. On the way back from Tatev you will take the world’s longest Cablecar without stops “Tatever”.
Tour Options
Itinerary
starting and returning point
Khor Virap is the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia, as it is directly connected with the adoption of Christianity. As a state religion, Christianity in Armenia was adopted in 301 due to endeavors of Saint Gregory The Illuminator, who, before converting King Trdat The 3rd to Christianity, was imprisoned in the dungeon, over which a church of Khor Virap monastery was built in the 17th century. From the monastery one can admire the stunning view of the Biblical Mount Ararat.
Passing a narrow road, surrounded by rocks of hundred caves, one discovers a scene of harmony of architecture with nature. The monastery, enshrined with fine architectural solutions and luxurious embellishments, is one of the brightest examples of Armenian architecture of the 13th century. Noravank consists of St. Karapet, St. Gregory The Illuminator churches and St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) two-storey church, which is notable for its ideal constructive and sculptural work.
Church bells were ringing loud in Tatev on October 16 of 2010, heralding the launch of a program to revive a medieval monastic complex and the opening of "Wings of Tatev" Ropeway. The 5.7 km ropeway, built within 11 months, passes through a deep gorge of the River Vorotan and over hills, covered with lush forests. The tramway is supported by three towers between its two terminals. One terminal is on a hill, overlooking the village of Halidzor and the other is near Tatev Monastery, on the road to Tatev village. Two cabins operate at once, traveling in opposite directions. There are 6 cables altogether (3 for each cabin), each uniquely foreseen for the specifications of this project. Within about 11 minutes a tramway cabin takes passengers, 30 at a time, from the village of Halidzor to the magnificent complex of Tatev.
Among the architectural pillars of Zangezour, the monastery of Tatev does not have its "rivals". It used to be the wealthiest medieval monastery in Armenia. Besides being a religious center, Tatev was also the important strategical center of Syunik kingdom. Being situated on a naturally defended place, Tatev monastery has always been an impregnable fortress for alien. In non-stable political conditions several secret ways in the territory of the fortress led to the canyon and served as a link between the monastery and the external world.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- The duration is approximate
- Seats will not be known in advance
Reviews(580)
I highly recommend this tour. Marina and Hovsep are an INCREDIBLE team. From start to finish, and between his professional and smooth driving skills and her total mastery as a tour guide and host, we were in perfect hands. This tour will start out at Khor Virap, one of the most famous monastic sites in all of Armenia due to its gorgeous view of Mount Ararat and its proximity to the Turkish border. Fascinating archaeology and history. Next it’s over to Noravank, located in a stunning setting. A first class lunch after that. I’m not kidding, this was amazing barbecue with all the fixings. Once everyone was good and fed, we were off to Tatev. Far flung, the journey there will give you a chance to really see the geographical gorgeousness of this country. And getting to the monastery itself is incredible. The Wings of Tatev ropeway is simultaneously peaceful and exciting, as you glide across this stunning gorge. Tatev itself is a very spiritual place, and you’ll have time to enjoy nature and learn about the religious history and architecture. If you’re on the fence, this tour is worth it. Maybe grab a doppio espresso before you board that bus! Just a thought! Thanks again to Marina and Hovsep for an unforgettable and first-class experience!!!
The tour guide was very informative , slightly laborious in English.. each stop there was enough time to listen to the information of the tour guide and explore by yourself. Lunch was very well provided for with free wine and brandy offered. My favourite stop was the Noravank monastery for the scenery. Overall worth the money. Slight downside was the people I was sat next to on the bus but the operator can't do much about that.
Unique experience. I lived every moment. I wanna do it again.
We had a wonderful time on the Tatev Tour with Edward as our guide and Aro as our driver. It was a long day, but it was fun from start to finish and well worth it. Edward was knowledgeable, friendly, and kept the tour interesting with great insights throughout the trip. We highly recommend this tour!
Thank you so much for your lovely words! We would be thrilled to welcome you back to Armenia soon!
Trip with Eduard was one of the best experiences in my life. Beautiful views were accompanied by his insightful stories, which helped me learn about the places with such a deep history. Also the driver Aro was really carefull on the road so I felt safe on a curvy Armenian roads
We very much appreciate your highest mark! We will be very glad to organize your trips anytime you visit our lovely country!
I liked the way Edward talked about Armenia. It was interesting and delicious. Also really liked how Edward revealed Tatev. It's a special place. Definitely advised.
Благодарим Вас за комментарий! С радостью готовы помочь в организации отдыха и в будущем!
Eduard was an excellent guide. The driver Aro was great as well. We had sufficient time to explore after the guided tour. Eduard would give interesting knowledge during the drive itself. Hyur is a great operator, we would do it again for sure!
Thank you so much for your excellent review! Hope to meet you during our tours again!
We had an amazing time The for guide Edward was very knowledgeable . We had enough time to take all the pictures and photos . Our driver Aro is a very good driver. The lunch that we took in a family owned restaurant was very delicious and organized . I really recommend this tour.
The nice experience of our customers is our priority! Thank you for your highest mark!
Edward the tour guide did excellent job . Aro the driver did great through the whole trip.
We are very grateful for the nice review! You are always welcome to Armenia!
The tour guide MARINA was very good. Very emphatic. Very resilient. , when we had a cloud and thunders when we got to the cable car we waited until it was gone and did it. She didn’t cancel it immediately and I was very happy that thanks to her we did it eventually. Not only that. How she managed to move between the English speakers and Russian speakers and manage all the things I thought it was very impressive. . About the places they were very impressive. Very long day but it was worth it. I liked that we had a big bus on this tour with ports to charge your iPhone , and WiFi. Thanks marina for a great trip.
Thank you for the warm review! Our company will gladly take care of your vacation during your next visit to Armenia!
