Group Tour: Khor Virap, Noravank, Tatev Monasteries (Wayback on Ropeway)

Embarking on a captivating journey through southern Armenia, this group tour offers a chance to take in the rich history and cultural heritage of three renowned monasteries. From the iconic Khor Virap, where visitors can gaze upon the majestic Mount Ararat, to the architectural marvels of Noravank and the awe-inspiring Tatev Monastery, this full-day excursion promises an unforgettable experience. The highlight of the tour, however, lies in the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car, the Wings of Tatev, which provides a unique perspective of the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the region. As the tour progresses, one can’t help but wonder what other hidden gems these sacred sites have in store.

Key Points

• This full-day group tour explores three renowned monasteries in southern Armenia: Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev, accompanied by a professional guide.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, pastries, and admission tickets, as well as insurance coverage.
• Highlights of the tour include the historical and religious significance of Khor Virap, the unique architecture of Noravank Monastery, and the captivating Tatev Monastery complex.
• The tour also features the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car, the Wings of Tatev, which provides stunning aerial views of the surrounding landscapes.
• Visitors can explore the monasteries’ grounds, learn about their history and cultural significance, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.

Tour Overview

This full-day group tour provides an opportunity to explore three renowned monasteries in southern Armenia: Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev.

Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll visit the Khor Virap monastery, which offers stunning views of the iconic Mount Ararat.

Next, you’ll explore the unique two-story Noravank Monastery, a medieval architectural gem.

The highlight of the day is the Tatev Monastery, a former center of learning. Here, you’ll ride the ‘Wings of Tatev’ cableway, the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and pastries, as well as admission tickets and insurance coverage.

Visiting Khor Virap

The tour begins at the Khor Virap monastery, which offers visitors an up-close view of the iconic Mount Ararat in the distance.

This 17th-century monastery is a popular pilgrimage site and holds significant religious and historical importance. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the monastery grounds, including the deep pit where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years.

From the observation platform, they’ll enjoy stunning vistas of the snow-capped peak of Mount Ararat, which dominates the landscape. The guide will provide insights into the monastery’s rich history and its role in the spread of Christianity in Armenia.

Exploring Noravank Monastery

After departing Khor Virap, the group travels to the remote and picturesque Noravank Monastery, the only two-story medieval monastery in Armenia.

Nestled in a narrow gorge surrounded by towering red cliffs, Noravank’s unique architecture and dramatic setting captivate visitors. The monastery features intricate carvings and khatchkars (Armenian cross-stones) adorning its walls and facades.

Guests explore the 13th-century main cathedral, admiring its detailed bas-reliefs and cross-stones. They also visit the small St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) chapel, notable for its exquisite sculpture work.

With ample time to wander the monastery grounds, the group soaks in the serene atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings of this historic Armenian landmark.

Touring Tatev Monastery

Departing from the serene Noravank Monastery, the group ventures forth to explore the captivating Tatev Monastery, a former center of learning and one of Armenia’s most renowned religious complexes.

Perched atop a dramatic plateau, the monastery boasts a striking architectural style and a rich history dating back to the 9th century.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the intricate carvings and frescoes adorning the monastery’s walls and ceilings.
2. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding Vorotan Gorge.
3. Ride the ‘Wings of Tatev’ cableway, the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car.
4. Discover the former university and learn about the monastery’s role as a center of education and culture.

Wings of Tatev Cableway

Towering over the Vorotan Gorge, the breathtaking Wings of Tatev cableway, the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car, whisks visitors on a thrilling journey to the Tatev Monastery.

Spanning 5.7 kilometers, the ropeway provides stunning aerial views of the surrounding landscapes. Passengers can marvel at the dramatic cliffs and the historic monastery as they glide effortlessly above the gorge.

The cable car’s state-of-the-art design ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, making it an integral part of the tour. With its impressive engineering and unparalleled vistas, the Wings of Tatev cableway elevates the overall experience, offering travelers a unique perspective of this captivating Armenian destination.

Inclusions and Highlights

The group tour package includes a professional guide, air-conditioned vehicles, bottled water and pastries, and admission tickets to the monasteries, including the Tatev ropeway ticket.

The tour highlights the opportunity to visit Khor Virap monastery with its views of Mount Ararat, explore the unique two-story medieval Noravank Monastery, and tour the historic Tatev Monastery while experiencing the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car, the ‘Wings of Tatev’.

The tour promises:

1. Immersion in Armenia’s rich religious and architectural heritage
2. Stunning vistas of the Ararat Valley and Caucasus Mountains
3. Chance to ride the innovative and extensive Tatev ropeway
4. Professional guidance and comfortable transportation throughout the day

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour begins at the Hyur Service (Head Office) in Yerenum, where travelers will meet their professional guide.

At the start time of 8:30 AM, the group will depart from this meeting point in air-conditioned vehicles.

Throughout the day, the guide will provide commentary in English and Russian.

At the end of the tour, the group will return to the original meeting point.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.

Public transportation is available near the meeting location.

With a maximum of 49 travelers, the tour operates rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Additional Information

Along With the tour details and meeting arrangements, there are a few other important points to consider. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and infants must sit on laps while children need to be accompanied by an adult.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests should dress appropriately. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers are permitted. Public transportation is available near the meeting point, and the maximum group size is 49 travelers.

This tour also offers the following:

1. Bottled water and pastries included
2. WiFi available in the vehicles
3. Insurance for the vehicle and passengers
4. Operates in all weather conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Bottled water and pastries are provided, but visitors are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks. The tour operator encourages travelers to dress appropriately for the weather conditions during the excursion.

Is Photography Allowed at the Monasteries?

Photography is generally allowed at the monasteries visited on this tour. Visitors should be respectful and follow any specific instructions from the guides or monastery staff regarding when and where photography is permitted.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are provided, less a service fee. No refunds are given for no-shows or partial attendance. Policies are subject to change, so customers should check at booking.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Other Sites?

Customers can request to extend the tour to visit other sites, but this may incur additional costs and need to be arranged with the tour provider in advance. Availability and feasibility depend on the tour schedule and logistics.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Requirements to Be Aware Of?

The tour doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions or requirements. However, the inclusions indicate bottled water and pastries are provided, so vegetarians and those with basic dietary needs can likely be accommodated. It’s best to check with the tour operator if you have specific dietary concerns.

Recap

This group tour offers a captivating exploration of three renowned monasteries in southern Armenia.

Visitors can experience the historical and religious significance of Khor Virap, marvel at the architectural wonders of Noravank, and discover the cultural legacy of Tatev Monastery.

The highlight is the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car, the Wings of Tatev, which provides stunning aerial views of the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the Tatev Monastery.