Private trip: Khor Virap, Noravank, and Ughtasar Wonders – Vayots Dzor Province, Armenia

EXPERIENCE

This day trip from Yerevan will take you on a journey to explore the ancient historical sites and natural wonders of Armenia. You’ll start your day by visiting the Khor Virap Monastery, which offers stunning views of Mount Ararat, followed by a visit to the 13th-century Noravank Monastery, nestled in a narrow gorge. After that, you’ll head to the Areni Winery for a wine tasting session and learn about Armenia’s winemaking traditions.

Then, you’ll embark on a thrilling jeep tour to Ughtasar, a remote field of petroglyphs from the 5th millennium BCE, surrounded by a lake and black boulders left behind by a once-active volcano. You’ll ride in a Soviet-era jeep and explore the ancient petroglyphs.

The tour starts from Sisian, where you will be picked up by a Soviet-era jeep and skillful drivers who will take you on an exciting ride of about 20 kilometers. After that, you will embark on a guided hike to Ughtasar Lake, which is surrounded by thousands of massive black boulders left behind by a once-active volcano. Thousands of stunning carved petroglyphs adorn the rocks, which date as early as 7000 BCE. These carvings are visible only during the summer months because snow covers the site nearly nine months of the year.

Through craft workshops at Sisian Ceramics or Gevorgyan Ceramics, you may also learn how ancient designs—such as those on the petroglyphs—have inspired Armenian artists. If you choose, lunch can be included in your round-trip to the petroglyphs.

After your hearty meal, drive to Tatev, one of Armenia’s most famous landmarks. Take the Tatev aerial tramway, the longest non-stop reversible cable car in the world, and enjoy the stunning views of the Vorotan River Gorge and the surrounding mountains. Once you arrive, explore the ancient Tatev Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 9th century.

Next, head to Khdzoresk, a village famous for its rock formations and caves. Take a walk across the suspension bridge to explore the Old Khndzoresk Cave Village, which was inhabited until the 1950s. Learn about the life of the villagers who lived in the caves and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

HIGHLIGHTS

Marvel at the stunning views of Mt. Ararat from Khor Virap Monastery
Explore the intricate architecture of Noravank Monastery in a picturesque gorge
Discover ancient petroglyphs on a unique jeep tour to Ughtasar Lake

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