Yerevan-Echmiadzin (Hripsime, Gayane, Mother Cathedral) – Zvartnots – Khor Virap – Yerevan

Set out on a captivating journey from Yerevan to Echmiadzin, where you’ll explore the historic Hripsime and Gayane churches, as well as the revered Mother Cathedral – the spiritual heart of Armenia. The tour continues to the stunning ruins of Zvartnots, showcasing ancient architectural brilliance. Next, you’ll head to the Khor Virap monastery, where you can explore Armenia’s Christian heritage and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Ararat. This enriching experience combines culture with scenic beauty, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Armenia’s remarkable history and traditions.

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour covering Yerevan, Echmiadzin (Hripsime, Gayane, Mother Cathedral), Zvartnots, and Khor Virap before returning to Yerevan.
• Tour includes guide services, comfortable transportation, meals, entrance tickets, and insurance coverage for participants.
• Convenient pickup locations in Yerevan and hassle-free start with staff greeting guests with the "Concierge Travel Armenia" sign.
• Opportunity to explore Armenia’s religious roots and traditions, including the spiritual headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
• Visit to the historically significant Khor Virap monastery, offering views of Mount Ararat and insights into Armenia’s adoption of Christianity.

Tour Overview

The tour route takes participants from Yerevan to Echmiadzin, visiting the historic sites of Hripsime, Gayane, and the Mother Cathedral.

It then continues on to Zvartnots and Khor Virap before returning to Yerevan.

The price for this private tour starts at $178 per person, varying based on group size.

The tour includes guide services, transportation, meals, and entrance tickets, as well as insurance coverage.

Pickup is available from designated locations, with guests greeted by staff holding a "Concierge Travel Armenia" sign.

The tour starts at 10:00 am, and confirmation is provided upon booking.

Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Inclusions

Guides service, car service, meals, entrance tickets, and insurance are all included in this tour.

Customers will receive the services of knowledgeable guides who’ll share their expertise throughout the journey. The car service ensures comfortable and efficient transportation between the various sites.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided, catering to the needs of the travelers. Entrance tickets to the historical and cultural landmarks, such as Hripsime, Gayane, and the Mother Cathedral, are included, eliminating the need for guests to purchase them separately.

Plus, the tour is covered by insurance, providing peace of mind for the participants.

Meeting and Pickup

To begin the tour, guests can be picked up from various locations. The tour operator offers convenient pickup points throughout the city of Yerevan.

Travelers will be met by a representative holding a sign that reads "Concierge Travel Armenia," ensuring a seamless start to the day’s journey. The tour departs promptly at 10:00 am, so guests are advised to be ready on time.

Infant seats are available for those traveling with young children, making the tour accessible to families. Whether you’re staying at a hotel or another location, the tour’s meeting and pickup arrangements cater to the needs of all participants, providing a hassle-free start to the memorable Yerevan-Echmiadzin tour experience.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling are available up to 24 hours before the tour experience begins (local time).

This flexible policy allows guests to secure their spot while staying flexible with their plans. If plans change, simply cancel or reschedule the tour within the 24-hour window at no additional cost.

This ensures guests can book with confidence, knowing they’ve the option to adjust their plans if needed.

The tour provider’s aim is to provide a hassle-free booking experience, so guests can focus on enjoying their tour of Yerevan, Echmiadzin, Zvartnots, and Khor Virap.

Yerevan to Echmiadzin

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Yerevan, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly guide holding a "Concierge Travel Armenia" sign.

From there, you’ll embark on a journey to the ancient city of Echmiadzin, the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Along the way, you’ll visit the iconic Hripsime and Gayane churches, as well as the impressive Mother Cathedral, all of which showcase the rich cultural heritage of Armenia.

This immersive experience provides a unique opportunity to explore the country’s religious roots and admire its architectural marvels.

Exploring Echmiadzin

Upon arriving in Echmiadzin, the tour explores the city’s rich religious heritage.

First, it visits the Hripsime Church, a 7th-century Armenian Apostolic cathedral renowned for its unique architectural design.

Next, the tour heads to the Gayane Church, another 7th-century treasure known for its intricate stone carvings.

The centerpiece of the tour is the impressive Mother Cathedral, the official spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Visitors can admire its grand scale, ornate frescoes, and the Catholicos’ throne.

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to explore Armenia’s deep-rooted Christian traditions and appreciate the enduring significance of these historic sites.

Visiting Zvartnots

After exploring the religious heritage of Echmiadzin, the tour continues to the ancient ruins of Zvartnots.

Situated just 18 kilometers west of Yerevan, Zvartnots was once an impressive cathedral built in the 7th century.

Visitors can wander through the remains of this architectural marvel, marveling at the intricate stone carvings and the ingenious design that combined Byzantine and Persian influences.

The site offers a glimpse into Armenia’s past, showcasing the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the significance of Zvartnots and its role in the religious and political landscape of medieval Armenia.

Khor Virap and Return to Yerevan

From Zvartnots, the tour proceeds to the striking Khor Virap monastery, situated at the foot of Mount Ararat. This iconic site holds deep religious and historical significance, as it’s where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before converting King Tiridates III to Christianity.

Visitors can:

1. Climb the stone steps to the chapel, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the imposing Mount Ararat.
2. Explore the deep underground pit where Gregory was held captive.
3. Admire the impressive architecture and murals adorning the monastery’s interior.
4. Reflect on the site’s role in Armenia’s adoption of Christianity as the state religion in the 4th century.

The tour then returns to Yerevan, concluding a comprehensive exploration of Armenia’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Duration?

The tour duration is not explicitly mentioned in the information provided. However, the tour covers several key sites in the Yerevan and Echmiadzin areas, suggesting it’s likely a full-day excursion that lasts approximately 8-10 hours.

Are Gratuities Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price doesn’t include gratuities. Guests are expected to tip the guide and driver at their own discretion based on the quality of service provided during the tour.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Customers can work with the tour operator to adjust the destinations, activities, and schedule to meet their preferences. However, any customizations may affect the tour price.

What Items Should I Bring for the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and snacks. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the stunning historical sites and beautiful landscapes along the tour.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Guests can request guides who speak their preferred language when booking the tour. The provider aims to accommodate various language needs for a comfortable and informative experience.

The Sum Up

The tour from Yerevan to Echmiadzin and beyond offers a captivating exploration of Armenia’s rich religious heritage. Visitors can enjoy the historic Hripsime and Gayane churches, the magnificent Mother Cathedral, the architectural wonders of Zvartnots, and the serene Khor Virap monastery. This enriching experience provides a glimpse into Armenia’s deep-rooted Christian roots while showcasing the country’s stunning natural beauty. It’s an ideal way to discover the spiritual heart of this ancient land.