Guide to Garni and Geghard

Garni temple and Geghard monastery are one of the most visited places in Armenia. Both are located close to the capital city - Yerevan. There are many things to see when traveling to these ancient monuments, one of them the road itself, surrounded by amazing landscape and nature, the road to Geghard and Garni one of the most beautiful in Armenia.

The twisty and scenic road follows the Azat Gorge and continues to the Geghard village and monastery. On your way to Garni you will see local farmers selling canned greens, almonds, dried fruits and other local produce. Stop by and get some canned "sindrik" or "bokhi" pickled greens from local mountains.

Every region and place in Armenia is known for its local produce and specialties. Garni is famous for lavash (Armenian, thin pita bread), feta cheese, yogurt, young wine, apples, walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds. You can buy them from locals, but some, like young wine is seasonal and available only in November.

Garni temple represents Armenia's Hellenistic culture influence in II-I centuries BC. Armenian kings, Tigran II and Artavazd II promoted Hellenistic culture in Armenia and one of the cultural centers was Garni fortress, built by king Artavazd II. The Garni temple was built in first century by king Tiridates. Emperor Nero of Rome donated 50 million dinar in gold to reconstruct Artashat, the ancient capital of Armenia that was destroyed by Romans. King Tiridates used the funds donated by Rome to rebuild the fortress and Garni temple. After adoption of the Christianity the Garni became summer residence of the Armenian kings. The temple was destroyed in 1679 in an earthquake, but was reconstructed in 1975.

There are many interesting things to see in Garni: the temple, ancient baths-house, the old fortress walls, the ruins of the VII century church, incredible view of the Azat Gorge, mountains of Yeranos Range and Erebuni and Khosrov preserves.
The Azat River with its clear and cold waters is home of brook trout and river crabs. From the Garni Temple you can enjoy incredible view of Azat Gorge. Unfortunately, the step canyon is surrounded by the safety fence that took away the ancient spirit and natural look of the landscape. Near the entrance of the temple you will find local villagers selling souvenirs and sometimes, mountain cat's fur that is illegal to hunt.

There are two preserves near Garni and Gehrad: Khosrov and Erebuni. Erebuni preserve is situated between Shorbulach and Gaghadir villages. It is home of the ancient wheat of Erebuni. Famous academician Vavilow in 1934 visited Armenia and was impressed by the area's richness of ancient wheat specimens. The significance of the Erebuni preserve to the world and agriculture is invaluable. Khosrov preserve deserves separate section in our guides. It is one of the oldest preserves known in history, king Khosrov III created the preserve around 330 AD and for 17 centuries it remained untouched.

Geghard Monastery is located about 7 miles from Garni. There is only one road that takes you to Geghard. Once you reach the end of the road you will see the monastery. Just before the monastery stop on the road and enjoy view of rocky-mountains covered with the green sparse vegetation. You can try wild, sour plums that grow on trees near the road.

The Geghard Monastery was founded around IV century, but current structures dated back in XII-XII centuries. According to ancient legend the legendary spear that pierced Christ was brought to Geghard Monastery. In front of the monastery entrance you will see locals selling souvenirs and snacks. We recommend you to try Armenian "ttu lavash" tart and sun dried thin sheet of plum syrup.

The Geghard complex has many things to see, most interesting are chambers carved from the mountain. The carved chambers are also known for the incredible acoustics. You will see the wall of amazing Chachkars or carved cross stones on the outside walls of the cave monastery. You can also light the candle inside the main cathedral that was built in 1215. While in Geghard, notice tied ribbons on the tries around the river and sacrifice rocks with blood passages. The tied ribbons represent whishes and sacrifice rocks are used when someone brings sheep or chicken to sacrifice. These traditions are not Christian, they date back in ancient times when Armenians were influenced by the Persians and their Zoroastrian religion.

Outside of the monastery you will also find carved chambers inside the mountains and caves. If you decide to climb the mountain near the entrance of the monastery, be careful coming back. Sharp step and slippery soil can send you tumbling down. The view from the top worth climbing; you will see the entire monastery complex from above and magnificent mountains surrounding the area.

When coming back from the Geghard and Garni you can stop by nice "veterok" restaurants near Geghadir Village. Open air dining in Garni mountains is special, the
fresh air is filled with the smell of oregano and wormwood plants. The meal in the restaurant include: pork barbeque, fresh caught brook trout from Azat River and local cheese with lavash and tarragon. The cheese and tarragon wrapped in lavash has amazing, unmatched taste when eaten in Armenian mountains. The dinner for 3 persons in the restaurant with drinks will cost you around $20.

The trip to Garni and Geghard will take no more that 5-6 hours and it is popular route with tourists visiting Armenia. The Garni and Geghard are one of the closest places to Yerevan that you can visit. We are certain that you amazed by the beauty of the surrounding nature and ancient monuments located so close to the urban capital of the country. For more images of Garni and Geghard, please visit our Ancient Monuments section.