A medieval monastery rising above the wooded slopes of Vayots Dzor, its grey stone churches set against forest and sky.
A monastery above the forest
Tanahat is a medieval Armenian monastery in Vayots Dzor, standing on a hillside above wooded slopes. Its compact grey-stone churches and surrounding walls have weathered centuries here, making it one of the region's evocative historic sites.
A three-day journey through southern Armenia. A night in Goris, visits to Khndzoresk and the cave churches. One of the country’s most striking routes.
Carved stone among the trees
The complex shows the characteristic restraint of Armenian church architecture, with conical roofs and finely worked masonry rising from the greenery. Reached by a winding mountain road, it rewards visitors with sweeping views over the surrounding ranges and the quiet that comes with being well off the main tourist trail.
The pagan temple of Garni, the Garni gorge with its basalt «Symphony of Stones», and Geghard — a 4th-century monastery carved into the rock. Lunch with lavash baking in a tonir.
The walk up earns you both the monastery and a view worth lingering over.
The approach road is mountainous and weather here can change fast, so check the forecast for the nearest settlement before you go and aim for a clear, dry day.
A two-day ascent of Armenia’s highest mountain. Lake Kari at 3,200 m, an overnight at the station, a morning push to the southern (4,094 m) or western peak. For the well-prepared only.
From Yerevan to this place a car or transfer is the most convenient — public transport reaches most Armenian places rarely. Plan a day for the road plus at least half a day for the place itself.
Tours through this place
Ready routes in which this place is a key stop
Stay nearby
Where to stay if you're going for a day or more
B&B in the Areni vineyards
A stone house among the vineyards, next to the Areni-1 cave. The hosts make wine from their own harvest; a sunset tasting is included.
A spa sanatorium in Jermuk
Mineral baths on thermal water, an inhalation room, park walks and a waterfall within walking distance. Full board available.
Yerevan → Alaverdi (Lori)
Northern Armenia via Dilijan and Vanadzor. An optional stop along the way at Haghpat and Sanahin — both UNESCO sites.