Armenia circumnavigation of the globe 7 days 6 nights

The Mimino Monument in Dilijan is dedicated to the main character of Georgiy Danelia’s iconic Soviet film Mimino. Unveiled in 2018, the sculpture depicts the pilot in uniform and has become a popular tourist attraction, symbolizing both cinematic heritage and the cultural spirit of the region.

Goshavank Monastery, located near the village of Gosh, 15 km from Dilijan, was a significant cultural, educational, and religious center in medieval Armenia. Founded by Mkhitar Gosh in the 12th–13th centuries on the site of the older Getik Monastery, the complex includes several churches, a school, a library, a scriptorium, and a bell tower. The monastery is renowned for its 13th-century khachkars and picturesque natural surroundings.

Parz Lake is a scenic lake in Dilijan National Park, surrounded by dense forests and mountains. Its crystal-clear water, year-round beauty, and developed tourist facilities make it one of the most popular leisure destinations in Armenia.

Sevanavank Monastery is an ancient Christian complex on Lake Sevan, founded in the 4th century by Saint Gregory the Illuminator. It includes the churches of Surb Arakelots and Surb Astvatsatsin, known for cross-dome architecture and scenic views. Today, it is a popular spiritual and tourist site.

Agartsin Monastery is one of Armenia’s hidden gems, less known yet deeply enchanting. Unlike monasteries perched on cliffs or mountain tops, it rests in a quiet forested valley of the Ijevan Ridge. From afar, its light stone walls shine against the dark greenery, creating a picture of harmony, grace, and timeless elegance.

The Odzun Monastery and domed basilica in central Odzun date back to the 4th century, built by King Trdat III. The main church, Surb Astvatsatsin, preserves 4th-century reliefs and unique architectural features. The complex includes 19th-century bell towers and remains an important cultural and spiritual center in Armenia.

Akhtpat Monastery, in Lori, Armenia, is a 10th-century UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded by King Ashot III, it was a major center of religion, education, and manuscript creation. The complex includes the Church of Surb Nshan, gavits, smaller churches, a library, mausoleums, and khachkars, showcasing Armenia’s rich medieval architecture and cultural heritage.

Ahtala is a town in Lori, Armenia, known for the 13th-century Church of the Holy Mother of God with its frescoes, a 10th-century fortress, and the Zakaryan Palace. A historic center of copper mining, a mint, and a multicultural settlement, it attracts visitors with its architecture, ancient fortifications, and festivals.

Kobayr Monastery is an ancient Armenian complex from the 7th century, located in southeastern Armenia. Its main church, Surb Astvatsatsin, is renowned for its architecture, stone carvings, and frescoes. Over the centuries, the monastery was restored multiple times and remained an important religious and cultural center, attracting pilgrims and tourists.

Oromayr Monastery is an ancient 10th–11th century complex located in Vayots Dzor, Armenia. Its main building, the Church of Saint Mary, features exquisite architecture and medieval frescoes. The monastery historically served as a spiritual and educational center and today attracts tourists and pilgrims for its historical and cultural significance.

The Selim Caravanserai is a 14th-century historical site located in Vayots Dzor, Armenia. Built along the ancient Silk Road, it served as a rest stop for merchants and travelers, offering lodging, food, and protection. The structure is a fine example of medieval Armenian architecture, featuring stone walls, arches, and a central courtyard. Today, the caravanserai is open to visitors and stands as an important historical and cultural landmark.

The Sanatorium and Drinking Gallery in Jermuk are key health facilities operating since the mid-20th century. The sanatorium provides therapeutic and restorative programs using mineral water, comfortable accommodations, and medical services. The Drinking Gallery allows visitors to consume mineral water for health benefits and overall wellness.

Ayravank is an ancient monastery in Armenia’s Gegharkunik region, dating back to the 4th century. It is known for the Church of Saint Stepanos with its elegant dome, 16th-century khachkars, and a rich history of manuscript transcription. The monastery combines architectural beauty, religious significance, and legends, remaining an important cultural landmark of the country.

Jermuk Waterfall — often called “Mermaid’s Hair” for its graceful and flowing appearance, is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Armenia. It is located near the spa town of Jermuk in the Vayots Dzor region, a place renowned for its mineral springs and healing climate.

Noratus Cemetery, on the western shore of Lake Sevan, is the largest collection of khachkars (cross-stones) in Armenia. Dating back to the 9th century, it features over 800 intricately carved stones with biblical scenes, patterns, and nature motifs. The site is a significant cultural and religious monument, showcasing medieval Armenian craftsmanship and spiritual heritage.

While riding in the cable car cabin, tourists enjoy breathtaking views of the Vorotan Gorge, the Devil’s Bridge, and the Tatev Plateau – the main attractions of this unique area of Armenia.

Tatev Monastery is a remarkable medieval Armenian complex in southern Armenia, founded in the 9th century. Its main churches are Saints Poghos-Petros and Saint Gregory the Illuminator. The monastery is famous for its unique architecture, the swinging column “Gavazan,” and its historical role as a center of spiritual and educational life in the region.

Zorats Karer (Karaunj) is an ancient megalithic complex in southern Armenia, approximately 7,500 years old. Hundreds of stones with holes were used as an observatory for the Sun, Moon, and stars, as well as a necropolis. The complex uniquely combines astronomy, rituals, and ancient culture.

Old Khndzoresk in Syunik Province is a unique cave settlement turned into an open-air museum. The houses were carved directly into the cliffs, some up to 30 meters high, accessible by ropes and underground passages. Today, Old Khndzoresk, with its suspension bridge and fascinating cave architecture, is a popular attraction in Armenia.

Among the gems of Armenian architecture and Christian heritage stands the Noravank Monastery, located in one of the most picturesque spots in Armenia. Perched on a high cliff above a fast-flowing river, set against the backdrop of unique red cliffs tinged with ochre, the monastery’s church domes rise beautifully toward the sky, creating a stunning architectural ensemble.

Areni-1 Cave is a significant archaeological site in Armenia, where remains of ancient humans, stone tools, animal fossils, and ritual artifacts were found. The cave also yielded ancient grape seeds, linked to one of the world’s oldest grape varieties — Areni Noir, a symbol of Armenian winemaking heritage.

Areni Winery — is a family-owned enterprise that produces wines from hand-grown grapes in the village of Areni, located in Armenia’s Vayots Dzor region. The village of Areni is famous for its ancient winemaking traditions, which trace back to deep antiquity.

Khor Virap Monastery is one of Armenia’s most sacred historical sites, located on the Ararat plain near the ancient capital Artashat. In 301 AD, Saint Gregory the Illuminator convinced King Trdat III to adopt Christianity, making Armenia the first Christian nation. The monastery is famous for Gregory’s dungeon, the Church of the Holy Mother of God, and its scenic views of Mount Ararat.

Mount Aragats — is the highest mountain in Armenia and the fourth-highest peak of the Armenian Highlands. It possesses unique features that attract numerous climbers and tourists from around the world. Visitors come to admire Armenia’s stunning mountain landscapes and to enjoy trekking — hiking adventures through the scenic highlands.

Echmiadzin — Monastery of the Armenian Apostolic Church; the seat of the throne of the Supreme Patriarch of the Catholicos of All Armenians in 303-484 years, and again from 1441 years. It is located in the city of Vagharshapat, Armavir region, Armenia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

Kari Lake, located at an altitude of 1900 m in the Northern Armenian Range near Dilijan, is one of the most picturesque mountain lakes in Armenia. Surrounded by forests and mountains, it impresses with its crystal-clear waters and changing blue shades. The lake is popular for hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and nature recreation.

The alphabet consists of 39 letters, which reflect the peculiarities of the Armenian language and culture. The Armenian alphabet is not only a means of communication, but also a national treasure and symbol of Armenia.

Sagmosavank Monastery is a historic 8th-century Armenian monastery located above a gorge on the Kasakh River. The complex includes several churches, with the main one dedicated to Saint Sarkis, featuring domes, stone carvings, and frescoes. The monastery is renowned for its scenic views, spiritual atmosphere, and importance in Armenian Christianity.