Discover UNESCO gems Haghpat and Sanahin. Explore ancient monasteries, cave castles, and Swiss architecture in Armenia’s Lori Province. Join our inspiring group tour.
Discover UNESCO gems Haghpat and Sanahin. Explore ancient monasteries, cave castles, and Swiss architecture in Armenia’s Lori Province. Join our inspiring group tour.
- Hyur Service - Starting and ending point
- Haghpat Monastery - Located near Sanahin, Haghpat Monastery holds a significant role in Armenia’s historical and cultural heritage. Constructed during King Ashot Bagratuni’s reign, it has been a center for producing valuable manuscripts and miniature paintings for centuries. In the 18th century, the…
- Hyur Service - Starting and ending point
- Haghpat Monastery - Located near Sanahin, Haghpat Monastery holds a significant role in Armenia’s historical and cultural heritage. Constructed during King Ashot Bagratuni’s reign, it has been a center for producing valuable manuscripts and miniature paintings for centuries. In the 18th century, the renowned Armenian bard Sayat-Nova lived and created here. The belfry, with its unique architectural design, is of great interest. This site is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
- Zarni Parni - Zarni-Parni is a cave castle complex in the Lori region, nestled in a forest canyon with a breathtaking view of the Kayan fortress, near the village of Haghpat, known for its monastery. The complex includes the “Zarni er” and “Parni er” castles, along with the “Tsak er” cave. Historical records suggest that the esteemed scholar and philosopher Hovhannes Imastaser lived and worked in this cave. Today, the area is a historical museum showcasing rare ancient agricultural tools and household items. Nearby, there is a tavern and winery offering local drinks and Armenian cuisine.
- Akhtala Monastery - The Akhtala fortress and monastery are located in the Lori district, built on a plateau resembling a peninsula, surrounded by deep gorges on three sides. In the 10th century, masons skillfully utilized the natural landscape to enhance the fortress’s defenses. The fortress is fortified with massive ramparts and features two pyramid-shaped watchtowers flanking the main entrance. The Akhtala Monastery, consisting of three churches, is situated within the fortress grounds.
- Aramyants Castle / Mansion - The Aramyants Castle, a gem of Swiss architecture, is located in the town of Akhtala in the Lori region. It is renowned for its stunning appearance and intriguing 120-year history. The castle belonged to Mikael Aramyants, a notable Armenian businessman from Tbilisi, and was built for his daughter who had pneumonia, as Akhtala boasts the best climate in the Caucasus region. Many famous individuals, including opera singer Fiodor Shalyapin, Armenian poet Hovhannes Tumanyan, and spiritual and cultural figure Khrimyan Hayrik, vacationed here. The castle holds a special place in Armenian history, as the declaration of the First Republic of Armenia was adopted here.
- Monastery of Sanahin - The Monastery of Sanahin is situated on the right bank of the Debed River. This architectural complex includes several churches, a seminary, and a book depository. The seminary building, which connects the St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) and All-Saviour churches, was originally constructed to enhance the structures’ earthquake resistance. This site is also listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

- Air-conditioned vehicles
- Vehicle & passengers insurance
- Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
- WiFi in the vehicles
- Bottled water & pastries
- Admission tickets
- Air-conditioned vehicles
- Vehicle & passengers insurance
- Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
- WiFi in the vehicles
- Bottled water & pastries
- Admission tickets
- Lunch price (3900 - 4900AMD = 10-13 USD)
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
- Lunch price (3900 - 4900AMD = 10-13 USD)
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
During this long-lasting and engaging group tour first visit is foreseen at the majestic 10th century monastery Haghpat. On your next stop visit Zarni-Parni cave castle complex in a forest canyon with a magnificent view of the Kayan fortress and nice restaurant. After lunch visit magnificent Akhtala monastery, comprised of three churches, located in the…
During this long-lasting and engaging group tour first visit is foreseen at the majestic 10th century monastery Haghpat. On your next stop visit Zarni-Parni cave castle complex in a forest canyon with a magnificent view of the Kayan fortress and nice restaurant. After lunch visit magnificent Akhtala monastery, comprised of three churches, located in the territory of the eponymous fortress. Visit Aramyants Castle, one of the jewels of Swiss architecture in Armenia. And last you are going to see the Sanahin monastery. Both Haghpat and Sanahin are included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List and are considered as “gems” of Lori provice.
After this trip true inspiration is never going to leave you!
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- The duration is approximate
- Seats will not be known in advance
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.