Garni Temple to Geghard Monastery

The trail starts from the 1st century Pagan Temple of Garni (Kotayk region) heading to Geghard Monastery (Kotayk region), passing through Azat River gorge - a smooth trail surrounded with high cliffs. You will be passing parallel to Azat River all way long the trail; you will be passing by Symphony of Stones - well preserved basalt columns, and the 11th century medieval bridge within the trail. Trails leading to Khosrov Forest State Reserve, and Havuts Tar Monastery are accessible from this trail. By the way, do not miss the mouth-watering fish BBQ in the Gorge.

How to get there?

The 1st marking sign (post) is located in 40°06'52.1"N 44°43'47.4"E position. You will have to drive to the start point via H3 road, for about 30 km (48m). Shall you want to pass through this trail backwards or instruct your driver to get to the end point, you will have to get to the last marking sign located in 40°08'25.3"N 44°49'06.6"E position, at Geghard Monastery which is  around 40 km (1h) far from the Capital Yerevan via H3 road.

Trail characteristics

11 km (6.86 mi)

4 hours (hiking)

min: 1232, max: 1760, gain: 869m

hiking, mountain biking

 7 marking signs (posts)

Post#1 Post#2 Post#3 Post#4  Post#5  Post#6 Post#7 End Point

What to do?

The trail is appropriate for hiking.

What to see around?

Within and in the vicinity of the trail you will come across with cultural monuments & attractions listed below:

  • Garni Pagan Temple (1st century)
  • Symphony of Stones
  • Medieval Bridge (11th century)
  • Geghard Monastery (4th century)

Where to stay?

Enjoy your stay at Bed & Breakfast 3G's in Goght village.

Nearby destinations

You can visit the below destinations in the region:

  • Khosrov Forest State Reserve
  • Havuts Tar Monastery

Flora & Fauna

Elevation profile

Photo album 

GPS track

Follow the GPS track of this trail via the below map; however, keep in mind to consult with local guides before heading to the trail.

 

Credits

Trail marked by AHA Armenia

Photo credit: Mar Petrosyan

Information generated by: Hikers.am 

Leave No Trace

  • Plan ahead & be prepared
  • Dispose the waste properly
  • Leave what you find
  • Minimize campfire impacts
  • Respect the wildlife
  • Be considerate of other visitors

Roads conditions

It is winter time! Check out road conditions before heading to the road! Beware of the snow & ice layer!

Vanadzor - Alaverdi section of the M6 Interstate highway stretching from Yerevan to Georgian border is temporarily closed. You can use Vanadzor-Stepanavan-Odzun-Alaverdi bypassing road.

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