Private tour to Khor Virap, Noravank, and Bird’s Cave

Private tour to Khor Virap, Noravank, and Bird’s Cave is one of the most beloved destinations in Armenia. The duration of the tour is around 7.5 to 8 hours.

1.Khor Virap is situated on a small hill and is one of the closest landmarks to the biblical Mount Ararat. When you stand there, it almost feels as if you could reach out and touch the mountain.
The monastery holds deep historical and spiritual significance for Armenians, as it marks the beginning of Christianity in Armenia. According to tradition, this is where Gregory the Illuminator, the first Catholicos of All Armenians, was imprisoned for 13 years.
Today, visitors can see the pit where he was kept, above which now stands a small and beautiful chapel.

2.The next stop takes you to another region — Vayots Dzor, known for its gorgeous canyons and red volcanic cliffs.

Tucked high among these cliffs stands Noravank, a medieval monastery that has been beautifully preserved. It was built with the contributions of Momik, one of the most important architects of the time. Noravank is especially unique for its rich stone decorations, its two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church, and the numerous khachkars (cross-stones) surrounding the complex — each with its own intricate detail and symbolism.

3.The tour also includes a stop at Bird’s Cave, a simple cave carved into the rock.
Birds’ Cave, also known as Areni-1, is an important archaeological site where researchers uncovered the oldest known leather shoe in the world, dating back over 5,500 years, as well as evidence of one of the earliest winemaking facilities ever discovered.

It’s hard to imagine that such a small, quiet place could hold so much history — but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

All private tours can be changed upon request.

Khor Virap

 

Noravank Monastery

 

Bird’s Cave