Garni-Geghard Day Trip

🗓️ One-Day Tour: Yerevan → Charents Arch → Azat River → Garni → Geghard → Yerevan

🕗 Departure: 9:00 AM
🕖 Return: ~5:30–6:00 PM

🛑 1. Charents Arch

🕘 9:40 – 10:10 AM
Start your day with a breathtaking view of Mount Ararat through this poetic stone arch. Built in 1957, it honors Yeghishe Charents and features his famous words about Armenia’s beloved mountain. A peaceful, scenic stop for iconic photos.
🛑 2. Azat River Viewpoint
🕥 10:20 – 10:40 AM
A short drive leads to a panoramic viewpoint of the Azat River, winding through dramatic mountain terrain. It's a quiet natural stop where you can enjoy the contrast of rugged cliffs and green valleys — perfect for a short stroll and photo break.
🛑 3. Garni Pagan Temple
🕙 10:50 – 11:50 AM
Discover the only remaining Greco-Roman temple in Armenia, dedicated to Mithra, the sun god. With impressive columns and cliffside views, Garni Temple is a unique symbol of Armenia’s pre-Christian history and architecture.
🛑 4. Symphony of Stones (Garni Gorge)
🕦 11:00 – 13:00 PM
Descend into the gorge to witness the Symphony of Stones, a breathtaking natural wonder formed by perfectly shaped hexagonal basalt columns. Often called Armenia’s “basalt organ,” this UNESCO-listed site is a must-see.
🛑 5. Quad Bike Tour (Optional)
🕧 1:00 – 1:30 PM
For adrenaline lovers, hop on a 30-minute quad bike ride near the gorge. Ride through the scenic trails and feel the rush of nature.
🦺 Includes safety gear and instructor
🛑 6. Lunch in Garni
🕐 1:30 – 2:30 PM
Enjoy a warm, home-style Armenian lunch in a local restaurant. Options include BBQ meats, tolma, khorovats, fresh salads, and traditional tonir-baked lavash.
🛑 7. Geghard Monastery
🕑 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Visit the stunning Geghard Monastery, carved partly into a cliff and surrounded by caves. It once held the Holy Lance that pierced Christ and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its acoustics and serenity.

🚌 Return to Yerevan
🕓 5:30 – 6:00 PM
Sit back and relax as you return to Yerevan