Explore Georgia and Armenia’s rich history with a day-trip to Akhtala, Haghpat & Sanahin. Discover UNESCO sites and the poignant ‘Mother of 9 Sons’ monument.
Explore Georgia and Armenia’s rich history with a day-trip to Akhtala, Haghpat & Sanahin. Discover UNESCO sites and the poignant ‘Mother of 9 Sons’ monument.
- Akhtala Monastery - Situated in the Lori Province of northern Armenia, Akhtala Monastery is a fortified monastic complex from the 10th century, celebrated for its outstanding Byzantine-style frescoes. Positioned on a rocky hilltop encircled by deep canyons, the site served both religious and defensive roles. The main church, Surp Astvatsatsin…
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Akhtala Monastery - Situated in the Lori Province of northern Armenia, Akhtala Monastery is a fortified monastic complex from the 10th century, celebrated for its outstanding Byzantine-style frescoes. Positioned on a rocky hilltop encircled by deep canyons, the site served both religious and defensive roles. The main church, Surp Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), constructed in the early 13th century, is embellished with vibrant, well-preserved frescoes illustrating biblical scenes and saints, regarded as some of the finest in the Caucasus. Established by the Kyurikian branch of the Bagratid dynasty and later expanded by Prince Ivane Zakarian, the monastery showcases a fusion of Armenian, Georgian, and Byzantine influences. Although no longer active, Akhtala remains a significant cultural and historical landmark, attracting visitors with its art, architecture, and tranquil natural surroundings.
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Haghpat Monastery - Haghpat Monastery is a medieval Armenian monastic complex located in Lori Province, overlooking the Debed River canyon. Founded in the 10th century during the reign of King Ashot III, it became a major center of learning, religion, and manuscript writing. Built in the traditional Armenian architectural style, the monastery features a harmonious layout of churches, chapels, a library, and a bell tower, all constructed from local stone. Its main church, Surb Nshan (Holy Sign), is known for its elegant carvings and beautiful frescoes. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Haghpat Monastery stands as a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture and spiritual heritage.
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Haghpat - Lunch
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Alaverdi - Alaverdi is a historic town in northern Armenia’s Lori Province, nestled in the deep Debed River gorge and surrounded by forested mountains. Once a major industrial center during the Soviet era, known for its copper smelting plant, today Alaverdi is more famous for its rich cultural heritage and nearby medieval monasteries. The town lies close to several UNESCO-listed sites, including Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, which reflect Armenia’s spiritual and architectural legacy. Despite its industrial past, Alaverdi offers striking natural landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and a gateway to explore the historical and cultural treasures of the Debed Canyon.
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Mikoyan Brothers Museum - The Mikoyan Brothers Museum, located in the town of Sanahin in northern Armenia, is dedicated to two prominent Soviet figures born there: Anastas Mikoyan, a senior statesman who served under multiple Soviet leaders, and his younger brother Artem Mikoyan, a renowned aircraft designer and co-founder of the MiG (Mikoyan-Gurevich) fighter jet series. The museum is housed in their childhood home and displays personal items, historical documents, photographs, and models of MiG aircraft. A real MiG-21 fighter jet stands outside the museum, symbolizing Artem’s aviation legacy. The museum offers a unique glimpse into Soviet political and technological history through the lives of two influential Armenians.
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Monastery of Sanahin - Sanahin Monastery is a 10th-century Armenian monastic complex located in Lori Province, near the town of Alaverdi. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is celebrated for its unique medieval architecture, intricate stone carvings, and historical significance. Once a major center of learning, the monastery housed a renowned school of calligraphy, theology, and science. The complex includes churches, chapels, a library, and a distinctive bell tower, all set against a backdrop of scenic mountain views. Sanahin stands as a powerful symbol of Armenia’s rich spiritual and educational heritage.
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Tbilisi - Returning Back

- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Lunch
- Visa (required in advance for admission to Armenia)
- Lunch
- Visa (required in advance for admission to Armenia)
Our tour provides a unique and engaging exploration of the historical and cultural landscapes of Georgia and Armenia. A particularly poignant feature is the “Mother of 9 Sons” monument, which brings a powerful emotional aspect to the experience, representing the significant sacrifices made in defense of the homeland. The itinerary is carefully designed…
Our tour provides a unique and engaging exploration of the historical and cultural landscapes of Georgia and Armenia. A particularly poignant feature is the “Mother of 9 Sons” monument, which brings a powerful emotional aspect to the experience, representing the significant sacrifices made in defense of the homeland. The itinerary is carefully designed to offer a diverse range of experiences—from discovering medieval fortresses and ancient monasteries to enjoying authentic regional cuisine. Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Haghpat and Sanahin Monastery Complexes further enhance the journey, giving guests a deeper understanding of the South Caucasus’ rich heritage and architectural legacy.
- Before Booking. Informing ahead. EU and Russian Citizens don’t need a visa. For any other nationality please check online if you are eligible to enter Armenia. If you are not and cant enter don’t buy the tour. WE DO NOT TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY IF YOU GET DECLINED ENTRANCE. Neither a refund will be offered and you will have to return back your way! Thank you and Enjoy the trip. We sadly cant provide any information of “if you can enter or if you cant”. Since it is the decision of the customs and not us.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.