Armenia is a historical land with rich culture and spiritual heritage, thus it would be a dream place to visit by people who would not only enjoy the beauty of the land but be able to learn the rich culture associated with the country. The country has numerous treasures among them the ancient monasteries that are a perennial representation of faith, architectural masterpiece and permanence. Situated in beautiful mountains, fertile valleys, and spectacular sceneries, these monasteries provide the best opportunity to tourists to have a glimpse into the long Christian history of Armenia, which goes back to more than a millennium. The Armenia monastery tour will give you the chance to walk through centuries-old stone corridors, examine the holy frescos and visit a calm lifestyle of monks who still maintain the centuries-old traditions.
To people traveling, the facts of travel are as significant as history. Armenia visa or Armenia travel visa is a very important initial move towards a smooth sailing. As travelers, whether they are Middle Eastern, European, or Asian, they can be able to apply in advance before traveling to get the required travel documentation and eliminate the last minute huddles. Having a developed itinerary, visitors will be able to get the most of their visit to these religious locations, as well as experience the natural beauty and hospitality, which Armenia is widely recognized with. The organizations such as GoKite Oman offer organized tours and packages to travelers who want to have a memorable experience of the monastery tour in Armenia. The religious and architectural wonders of the monasteries of Armenia are not only a thing of the past, but they are a breathing legacy of perseverance, art and devotions. Ranging in height with their carving-covered stone walls and remote sanctuaries on the cliffs, every place tells how a people of faith have sustained themselves through the ages. A tour of monasteries in Armenia shows the visitors all the serene environment in these holy locations and helps them understand the historical background of these locations. Besides, most of the monasteries are situated in breathtaking places of nature providing panoramic views, which are as eye-taking as the historical structures themselves.
What is the Rational to visit an Armenia Monastery Tour.
A monastery tour of Armenia is not an ordinary travel experience but a trip back to history, spirituality and culture. Armenian monasteries are located everywhere in the country, in Gegharkunik highlands, as well as in the calm slopes of Vayots Dzor. Each monastery is the unique example of the life of ancient civilizations in Armenia and presents the architectural ideas, the religious traditions, and the regional art.
By touring the monasteries, one gets to:
Explore Ancient Architecture:
Armenia is known to have unique stone structures comprising of conical domes, khachkars (carved-out cross-stones) and fortified walls. Geghard Monastery and Noravank are the best examples of the architectural ingenuity of Armenia.
Visit Spiritual Heritage:
There are numerous operating religious centers in the form of monasteries. Tourists are able to witness practices, join prayers, and have a glimpse of the peaceful monastic life.
Explore Picturesque Sights:
The monasteries are usually set in isolated scenic places, where they are able to view spectacular scenery of mountains, rivers and valleys thus the journey itself is most satisfactory to nature enthusiasts.
Lesson of History:
Every monastery has something to relate, as to its origin, with the saints of the Middle Ages, as to its functions in national defense, in education, and in preserving manuscripts. The tour of Armenia monasteries helps in enriching the knowledge and experience of the travelers in the aspects of the Armenian culture, religion and history.
Such companies as GoKite Oman will be able to organize individual tours, and so, make sure that tourists will not only see the most popular monasteries but will also have the chance to visit such hidden sides of the destination, which are often missed by ordinary tourists.
The Best monasteries to see in Armenia.
1. Geghard Monastery
A historical landmark is the Geghard Monastery which was a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known to have been hewn out of the surrounding mountain cliffs. The name of the monastery, which means spear, is the name of the sacred spear which is said to have pierced Jesus Christ and was kept here a relic. The combination of the nature rock formation and human handiwork amazes the visitors, and thus makes Geghard one of the most picture and soul-enhancing monasteries in Armenia.
2. Khor Virap Monastery
Khor Virap Monastery is situated close to the Turkish border and is associated with the historical figure of the conversion of Armenia during 301 AD to Christianity, by a man known as Saint Gregory the Illuminator, he was the first state to have Christianity as its state religion. The monastery has panoramic views of mount ararat and forms a dramatic background to the visitors who are interested in both the history and beautiful scenery.
3. Noravank Monastery
Located in the Vayots Dzor province, Noravank Monastery is characterized by complex carvings and unbelievable canyon views. It was established in the 12th century and turned out to be a significant religious and cultural hub. Two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church and well-decorated khachkars are some of the favorite features of the monastery that represent the specific art of Armenia.
4. Tatev Monastery
Tatev Monastery is built on the cliff of a deep chasm in the Syunik region and could be reached with the help of the Wings of Tatev, the longest cable car in the world. This was a 9 th -century monastery that was a seat of knowledge and spiritual existence. The place of the monastery is a breathtaking scenery of the Vorotan River Gorge, so it is a place that many history and nature lovers can not ignore.
5. Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin.
Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries are medieval Armenian architecture buildings located in the Lori Province and listed by UNESCO. The monasteries served as significant educational and religious hubs during the 10th-13th centuries and they continue to serve as reminders of the academic and religious heritage of Armenia.
6. Sevanavank Monastery
The Sevanavank, which is situated at the northwest of Lake Sevan, provides the views of one of the biggest freshwater high lakes of the world. This monastery was established in the 9 th century and it was the place where monks could go to in order to get isolated. It boasts of colorful red tuf stone churches that contrast well with the blue waters around it hence it is a heaven to the photographer.
The Monastery tour of Armenia.
Best Time to Visit
The most appropriate period to visit the Armenia monasteries is the spring season (April- June) and fall (September- October). The seasons are good and the sceneries are the most colorful during these seasons. Summer is a warm season but the season is also very busy since the tourists are traveling and winter could be a difficult season to access certain remote monasteries because of the snow.
Travel Requirements
Travelers will have to apply to Armenia travel visa or an Armenia visa to take a monastery tour. Citizens of numerous nations are also able to receive an e-visa on the Internet, and the rest of the countries may need to receive a visa on arrival or apply to the embassy. Before planning a trip, it is always best to see what the existing rules are. Such companies as GoKite Oman may help find the guidance on the visa, which will not complicate the traveling experience.
Suggested Itinerary
An example of a 5-7 day tour of monasteries in Armenia can entail:
- Day 1: Yerevan arrival and the exploration of the city.
- Day 2: Geghard Monastery and Garni Temple.
- Day 3: Tour Khor Virap and Noravank Monastery.
- Day 4: Visit of Tatev Monastery and Wings of Tatev.
- Day 5: Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, Lori Province.
- Day 6: Sevanavank Monastery and Lake Sevan.
- Day 7: Departure from Yerevan
The travelers will be able to build their itinerary according to their interests, speed of the traveling, and the degree of adventure they want.
Travel Tips
- Also wear comfortable footwear, most monasteries require walking or climbing.
- Bring water and food to visit the monasteries in a remote area.
- Dress decently and do not make a lot of noise particularly in places of worship such as Hindu shrines and Muslim mosques.
- Local guide will provide comprehensive historical knowledge.
The Cultural Importance of Armenian Monasteries.
The Armenian monasteries are not just architectural wonder but they are living representations of the culture of the nation. Centuries of learning, preservation of manuscripts and spiritual direction were all performed by monasteries. Most of the monasteries have dramatic historical events and saints and are part of the national discourse of Armenia.
The khachkars which are the stone crosses carved in the monasteries are not only the religious signs but also the works of the medieval art. These monuments are a testament to the faithfulness, creativity, and perseverance of the Armenian communities in the centuries of the invasion by foreigners and natural disasters. A tour of the Armenia monasteries gives the tourist a more insight on what defines the spirit, values and traditions that persist to define the people of Armenia.
Experiencing Monastic Life
To have a more immersive experience, other monasteries provide travelers with a chance to meet the monks, join in prayers, and even become a guest within the monasteries. This gives a preview of what the life in monasticism is like and the visitors can forget about the hectic modern lifestyle and enjoy a more relaxed and meditative pace.
Conclusion
A tour of the Armenia monasteries is a trip filled with history, spirituality, and natural beauty, which would provide the travelers with a deep insight into the culture and faith of the Armenians. Starting with the awe-inspiring Geghard Monastery hewn out of the cliffs and ending with the serene beaches of Lake Sevan, each place of interest has a story, a piece of centuries of devotion, and picturesque landscapes to be remembered. With proper guidance in planning your visit such as the acquisition of an Armenia visa or even an Armenia travel visa, an easy and well-enriching experience is guaranteed.
Such companies as Go Kite Oman focus on creating personalized tours which focus on both known and less known monasteries, and they cover tourists who aim to have a spiritual boost, historical scenery and spectacular views. When they take the time to visit the monasteries in Armenia, the visitor not only observes the architectural and natural wonders, but they also get a chance to relate to a culture that has held its belief and culture over the millennia. Be it a history lover, a spiritual traveler or an adventurer, an Armenia monastery tour is a trip of exploration, contemplation and amazement and one that leaves a memorable trace in the heart and soul of every tourist.
