Haghpat Monastery Tours: Explore Armenia's Medieval Marvel

Discover Armenia The tour starts in Tbilisi at 7:00 AM. Visit the Akhpat Monastery and stroll through the streets of Yerevan, visiting its sights. The excursion allows you to fully enjoy the beauty of Lake Sevan, and if you want, taste real Sevan white fish and a special delicacy - crab kebab in a coastal restaurant.

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!

Our tour stands out for its immersive exploration of the historical and cultural richness of Georgia and Armenia. The poignant narrative surrounding the "Mother of 9 Sons" monument adds a deeply emotional and symbolic layer to the journey, highlighting the sacrifices made for homeland. The diverse experiences, from medieval fortresses and monasteries to rich culinary delights, provide a well-rounded and captivating adventure. The inclusion of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Haghpat and Sanahin Monastery Complex adds a touch of historical grandeur, making your tour a unique and enriching exploration of the South Caucasus.

Discover the cultural and spiritual gems of Northern Armenia on this full-day tour from Tbilisi. Visit the moving “Mother of Nine Sons” monument and explore Akhtala Monastery, known for its vivid frescoes and fortress-like design. Continue to Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO site offering breathtaking views over Debed Gorge, and enjoy a traditional Armenian lunch. Along the way, stop at a medieval bridge, see the dramatic Debed Canyon, and visit the Mikoyan Brothers Museum with its iconic MiG-21 jet. End the day at Sanahin Monastery, another UNESCO masterpiece rich in history and faith.

The nature and sights of the Lori region always attract numerous tourists. Today we will get acquainted with some of the beautiful sights of Lori. The first shortstop will be at the «Gntunik» food court in Aparan, where we can have breakfast or do some necessary shopping. During the tour, we will visit Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, Mendz Er cave, the famous Sanahin ancient bridge, Alaverdi town, Surb Astvatsatsin Monastery in Akhtala, Akhtala fortress and Aramyants castle. Haghpat Monastery, one of the largest monastic complexes in Armenia, is located 6 km away from the Sanahin Monastery in Haghpat village. The Akhtala fortress is supposed to have been founded in the 10th century by the Bagratuni-Kyurikyans princely family ruling this area until the end of the 12th century. The last stop of the tour is the castle of Maecenas Aramyants. It was built in the Swiss style. The Declaration on the establishment of the First Republic of Armenia was adopted here. Total distance is 400 km

Our tour offers a distinctive and immersive journey through the historical and cultural landscapes of Georgia and Armenia. A particularly moving highlight is the "Mother of 9 Sons" monument, which adds a powerful emotional dimension to the experience, symbolizing the profound sacrifices made in defense of the homeland. The itinerary is thoughtfully curated to include a rich variety of experiences—from exploring medieval fortresses and centuries-old monasteries to savoring authentic regional cuisine. Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Haghpat and Sanahin Monastery Complexes further elevate the journey, offering guests a deeper appreciation of the South Caucasus' enduring heritage and architectural legacy.

Sanahin Monastery is an Armenian monastery founded in the 10th century in the Lori Province of Armenia. The name Sanahin literally translates from Armenian as "this one is older than that one", presumably representing a claim to having an older monastery than the neighbouring Haghpat Monastery. The two villages and their monasteries are similar in many ways, and lie in plain view of each other on a dissected plateau formation, separated by a deep "crack" formed by a small river flowing into the Debed river.

It’s a pleasure to welcome to Silk Road Armenia Travel Agency. Come to explore Armenia and you will be the guests of snow-covered mountains, green boundless valleys, dense forests and other miracles of virgin nature. In Armenia you can become the witness of immortal architectural monuments, unprecedented culture, the living tracks of Great Silk Road, eastern hospitality, unique national cuisine, fascinating folk music and dance and warm family atmosphere. You can learn about local culture and religion during visits to two monasteries, Haghpat and Sanahin. The monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin are closely connected, and located within 20 minutes of drive from each other. Legend says that both monasteries were built by father and son Masons, with Sanahin having been built earlier by the father. The major church in Haghpat Complex – St. Nshan or the Holy Cross – was built in 976, and the main church in the Sanahin Complex was built some 30 years earlier.

Discover historical sights in Armenia. Learn about the local culture and religion at two monasteries, visiting Hagpat and Sanahin. The old monastery is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin are closely connected and are a 40-minute walk from each other. Legend has it that both monasteries were built by father-son Masons, Sanahin was built earlier by his father. The name says it all: Sanahin literally means "it's older than the others."

"The two monasteries are interwoven with legends and history and are together the first sights from Armenia included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sanahin - literally means ""older than that"" - meaning older than Haghpat. They are famous for their cultural heritage, schools, bibliography and miniature painting. Haghpat Also houses one of the 4 remaining Amenaprkich Khachkars."

During this 10-11 hour tour you will visit amazing UNESCO heritage monastery complexes and old church as well as admire all the beauty of nature of Armenia's north.

On the way to Tbilisi you have an oportunity to visit Haghpat and Sanahin medieval monasteries, which are placed on UNESCO's World Heritage List.

Join us on an enriching day trip from Tbilisi to Lake Sevan, an opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Armenia. Explore the awe-inspiring Haghpat monastery and Lake Sevan, two of Armenia's top highlights, as our professional guides unveil the fascinating history, art, and traditions of this captivating country. Travel in style and comfort in our well-appointed cars, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable journey. Our seasoned guides are not just experts; they're passionate storytellers who make history come alive. Choose us for an exceptional experience, where our expert guides and comfortable transportation guarantee an insightful and seamless adventure in Armenia. We go the extra mile to make your trip truly unforgettable, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

These two Byzantine monasteries in the Tumanian region from the period of prosperity during the Kiurikian dynasty (10th to 13th century) were important centres of learning. Sanahin was renown for its school of illuminators and calligraphers. The two monastic complexes represent the highest flowering of Armenian religious architecture, whose unique style developed from a blending of elements of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture and the traditional vernacular architecture of the Caucasian region.

Land of Noah offers a transfer to Tbilisi during which you have an opportunity to explore the two must see places in Armenia, which are  placed on UNESCO's World Heritage List: Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries.