Smbataberd & Tsakhats Kar

Overview

Smbataberd fortress runs along a ridge above the gorges of Vayots Dzor, and higher in the mountains hides Tsakhats Kar, a monastery founded in the 10th century. The way up is a mountain dirt track that only a 4×4 can manage.

On the way south we stop at Khor Virap with its view of Ararat, and on the way back at Noravank among the red cliffs.

Itinerary

1. Pick-up in YerevanFrom your hotel or apartment
2. 1Khor VirapView of Ararat on the way south
3. 2Smbataberd FortressWalls and towers on the ridge, reached by 4×4
4. 3Tsakhats KarMonastery founded in the 10th century, high in the mountains
5. 4NoravankMonastery among red cliffs
6. Back in YerevanDrop-off at your hotel