As the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion, with much of its history interlaced with neighbouring empires the likes of the Ottomans, Persians and the Soviets, and stained by the unforgettable tragedy of the Armenian Genocide, Armenia is a destination where ancient Caucasus landscapes, medieval monuments and an intriguing narrative await the inquisitive traveller at every turn. Then, there’s the unexpected surprise of Yerevan – the country’s capital painting a picture of a nation eagerly swaggering into a new and promising era. Search for these stories of faith, resilience and salvation with a customised Armenia tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours and discover the fabled land of the Armenians today.
Rocky Delight
The ancient unspoilt land sandwiched between mainland Europe and Western Asia that Armenia sits on is a dream come true for nature lovers and photographers alike. Journey to the beautiful valley of the Goris River to lay eyes on one of the country’s most epic natural landscapes – the gigantic spires of Goris. Go on a side trip from the capital and find yourself standing before the magical “Symphony of Stones”, a breathtaking series of vertical cliffs and basalt polygon columns which resembles a massive pipe organ when viewing from afar. Last but not least, take a trail through the divine Debed Canyon and discover the UNESCO-listed monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin, as well as countless medieval Armenian cross-stones dotted all around the rocky mountainscape.
Monasteries Marvels Billed as the world’s first Christian country, it is hardly surprising that Armenia has more than 4,000 churches and monasteries, with most of them situated on highlands amongst picturesque landscapes. Crowd favourite Khor Virap is arguably one of the country’s most stunning monasteries boasting an enviable backdrop of the majestic Mount Ararat. Geghard Monastery, a cave church carved entirely inside a rock mountain, is a romantic, mystical and magical portrait all at once. Tatev Monastery, perched high above a clifftop overlooking the lush and expansive Caucasus, offers a breathtaking panorama well worth a million camera clicks.
Yes to Yerevan
Nature and history are likely to keep travellers to Armenia intrigued, but for those of you looking for an accompanying city break, you will not be disappointed with what the nation’s capital has got to offer. Pay visits to Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex and Armenian Genocide Musuem, both sombre testaments to the endurance of the Armenian people, and gain a better understanding of the events that took place during the Armenian Genocide. Then, get in queue with Yerevan’s march towards the future at the splendid Cascade, a giant staircase and the epicentre of everything cool in the country, and shop for unique and folksy treasures at Vernissage, a popular outdoor flea market.
To discover more destinations in the Caucasus, see:
Read a page of Armenia’s history with a customised Armenia tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours today. Call 6212 9935 or email privatetours@chanbrothers.com.sg for more information.
Highlights
Every itinerary can be fully customised according to needs, special interests, personal preferences and defining style of just about anyone who wants to travel privately and exclusively.
Dinner
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Yerevan. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner in a typical Armenian restaurant with local folk music and dance.
Breakfast/Lunch
After breakfast, head on a morning city tour in Yerevan. Transfer to the Kotayk region where you will visit Monastery of Geghard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Monastery of Geghard is hailed as one of the most famous medieval monasteries in Armenia. In the porch of the monastery, there is also an organised chorus singing of spiritual songs. Next, proceed to the open-air museum of Temple of Garni. The Temple of Garni is the one and only pagan temple across the Caucasus. After lunch, immerse yourself in watching the process of Armenian bread and lavash baking Thereafter, proceed back to Yerevan.
Geghard Monastery
Breakfast/Lunch
This morning, visit the Armavir province. Also stop by Etchmiadzin, the spiritual centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Next, proceed to Etchmiadzin Cathedral, one of the most ancient examples of Christian architecture. After lunch, transfer back to Yerevan. On the way, make a stop at Zvartnots Cathedral which was built in the 7th century. Later, explore Yerevan Brandy Company where you can take a walk around the cellar to witness how brandy spirits are being preserved.
Zvartnots Temple
Breakfast/Lunch
Today, head to the Ararat province. Make a stop at Khor Virap Monastery, which was host to a theological seminary and formerly the residence of Armenian Catholics. Next, visit Noravank Monastery, a 13th-century Armenian monastery which also acted as the spiritual centre during the dynasty of Orbelyan princes. After lunch, continue to Tatev Monastery, a 9th-century monastery located on a large basalt plateau near Tatev Village in Syunik province. Thereafter, transfer to Goris for your overnight stay.
Tatev Monastery
Breakfast/Lunch
After breakfast, make a photo stop at Shaki Waterfall. Head thereafter to Selim Caravanserai, built in 1332 by Prince Chesar Orbelian. This afternoon, proceed to the province of Gegharkunik, where you can spot the ancient Noratus Cemetery with medieval khachkars dating back to the 6th century. Continue to Lake Sevan, also known as the Geghama Sea. Make a stop at Monastery of Sevan. Thereafter, make your way to Dilijan for your overnight stay.
Monastery of Sevan
Breakfast
This morning, visit Haghartsin Monastery, built between the 10th and 13th century. Next, explore Fioletovo, a village where Molokans live. Continue to the Aragatsotn region where Mt Aragats is located. Here, at an altitude of 2,300 metres above sea level, you will get to go on a hike to Amberd Fortress. Along the hike, you will get to enjoy the picturesque sceneries of colourful alpine meadows and mountains. Thereafter, transfer back to Yerevan.
Yerevan
Breakfast
After breakfast, spend some time at leisure before you transfer to the airport for your flight home.