Day Trip From Yerevan by Car: Charent's Arch, Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones, Garni Village and Geghard Monastery

Stop 1: Charent's Arch – A Scenic Viewpoint

Location and Overview

Charent’s Arch is a viewpoint on the Yerevan-Garni road, about 30 km east of Yerevan. Named after Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents, the site provides one of the best views of Mount Ararat, Armenia’s most iconic mountain.

What to See

• Panoramic view: On a clear day, Mount Ararat dominates the horizon.

• The Arch: A simple yet elegant stone structure with an inscription from Charents' poetry.

• Photography opportunity: The location is ideal for capturing Armenia’s natural beauty.

Historical Insight

The arch was built in 1957 in memory of Yeghishe Charents, a famous Armenian poet who often wrote about the country’s landscapes. He described Mount Ararat as a symbol of Armenian identity.

Admission: Free
Recommended Duration: 15-20 minutes
Location: 📍Charent's Arch

Stop 2: Garni Temple – Armenia’s Pagan Heritage

Location and Overview

Garni Temple is located 11 km from Charent’s Arch in the village of Garni. It is the only Greco-Roman colonnaded temple in the region, dating back to the 1st century AD.

What to See

• The Temple: Built in the Hellenistic style, dedicated to the sun god Mihr.

• Roman inscriptions: Some original carvings remain on the structure.

• The Fortress Ruins: The temple stands on the site of an ancient fortress complex.

• Garni Gorge Views: The cliffs surrounding the site offer dramatic landscapes.

Historical Insight

The temple was likely commissioned by King Tiridates I and was destroyed in 1679 by an earthquake. It was reconstructed in 1975 using original stones found in the ruins.

Admission: 1,500 AMD (~$4 / €3.60)
Recommended Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Location: 📍Garni Temple

Stop 3: Symphony of Stones – Nature’s Masterpiece

Location and Overview

A short drive from Garni Temple leads to Garni Gorge, home to the Symphony of Stones. The site is famous for its basalt column formations, resembling organ pipes.

What to See

• Basalt Columns: Naturally formed hexagonal rocks stacked against the gorge walls.

• Garni River: A peaceful spot for relaxation and photos.

• Hiking Path: A short 15-20 minute walk from the Garni Temple leads down to the site.

Historical Insight

The formation is the result of volcanic lava cooling and contracting, creating unique geometric shapes. The name "Symphony of Stones" reflects its resemblance to an organ, as if nature itself carved a musical instrument.

Admission: Free
Recommended Duration: 30-45 minutes
Location: 📍Symphony of Stones

Stop 4: Traditional Armenian Food in Garni Village

Location and Overview

Garni village is a great place to take a break and enjoy traditional Armenian food before heading to Geghard Monastery.

Where to Eat

• Lus Bread House: A popular spot known for its freshly baked lavash and traditional Armenian dishes.

• Local Taverns: Many small restaurants offer authentic Armenian barbecue (khorovats) and homemade dairy products.

What to Eat

• Lavash: Thin, soft Armenian flatbread baked in a tonir (underground clay oven).

• Khorovats (Armenian barbecue): Grilled meat, often served with fresh herbs and vegetables.

• Matsun: A traditional Armenian yogurt, refreshing and slightly tangy.

• Gata: A sweet Armenian pastry, perfect for dessert.

Why Visit

Enjoying local food completes the experience, giving visitors a taste of Armenia’s rich culinary traditions. Many local restaurants, especially Lus Bread House, offer lavash baking demonstrations, allowing travelers to see how this staple bread is made.

Recommended Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Location: 📍Lus Bread House

Stop 5: Geghard Monastery – A UNESCO Heritage Site

Location and Overview

Geghard Monastery is 9 km from Garni and is carved into the surrounding cliffs. It is one of Armenia’s most famous religious sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to See

• Main Church: Built in 1215, featuring intricate stone carvings.

• Cave Chapels: Some parts of the monastery are carved directly into the rock.

• Sacred Spring: Located inside one of the chapels, believed to have healing properties.

• Khachkars (Cross-stones): Elaborate stone carvings dating back centuries.

Historical Insight

Geghard means “spear”, referring to the Holy Lance that pierced Jesus Christ, which was once kept here. The monastery was founded in the 4th century, but the surviving structures date from the 12th-13th centuries.

Admission: Free
Recommended Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Location: 📍Gaghard Monastery

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and clear views.

• Road Conditions: The roads are mostly well-maintained, but drive cautiously in winter.

• Recommended Duration: This day trip takes 5-7 hours, depending on the time spent at each stop.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Yerevan offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the panoramic views at Charent’s Arch to the ancient Garni Temple, the stunning Symphony of Stones, an authentic Armenian food stop in Garni, and the sacred Geghard Monastery, each site provides a unique experience.

Get the full route on Google Maps here.