Khor Virap - Discovering Armenia

Travelling to Khor Virap

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Khor Virap, a pretty good destination in Armenia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Khor Virap and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Khor Virap, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Armenia, here's everything to know about Khor Virap for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Khor Virap

Khor Virap is a popular tourist destination located in the Ararat Plain in Armenia. This ancient monastery dates back to the 7th century and is famous for its stunning views of Mount Ararat, the legendary resting place of Noah's Ark. Khor Virap was once used as a royal prison and is famous for its underground chamber where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before finally curing King Trdat III of his illness and converting him to Christianity. Today, Khor Virap attracts visitors from all over the world who come to explore its rich history, beautiful architecture, and breathtaking scenery.

What to visit in Khor Virap

Khor Virap is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Armenia. It is famous for its historical and religious significance. Below are some of the tourist attractions of Khor Virap and some information about each of them: 1. Khor Virap Monastery - The Khor Virap Monastery is a 17th-century monastery situated at the foot of Mount Ararat. It is the most important pilgrimage site in Armenia and is believed to be the place where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years. The monastery has a stunning view of Mount Ararat.
2. Mount Ararat - Mount Ararat is the highest mountain peak in Turkey and is also visible from Armenia. It is believed to be the resting place of Noah's Ark, and is highly revered by the Armenian people.
3. Vedi Wine Factory - The Vedi Wine Factory is a popular destination for wine lovers in Armenia. The factory is known for producing some of the best wines in the country, and visitors can take a tour of the factory and sample some of the wines.
4. Noravank Monastery - The Noravank Monastery is a 13th-century monastery located in a remote valley in the Vayots Dzor Province. It is famous for its unique architecture and beautiful frescoes.
5. Areni-1 Cave - The Areni-1 Cave is an archaeological site located in the village of Areni. It is famous for being the site of the oldest known winery in the world, dating back to 6100 BC.
6. Zorats Karer - Zorats Karer, also known as the Armenian Stonehenge, is an ancient megalithic site located in Syunik Province. The site consists of a large number of standing stones arranged in a circular pattern.
Overall, Khor Virap has many fascinating tourist attractions that are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Armenia.

When to go on holiday to Khor Virap

The best time to visit Khor Virap in Armenia is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). The weather during these seasons is mild with less rainfall and the landscapes are beautiful with colorful foliage in the autumn or blooming flowers in the spring. During the summer months, the temperatures can be quite hot, while in the winter, it can be cold and snowy, making it difficult to access certain parts of Khor Virap.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Khor Virap

To get to Khor Virap from Yerevan, you can take a car or a bus for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. I would recommend taking a taxi or hiring a private driver for a more comfortable and hassle-free journey.
You can also take a guided tour or join a group tour that will take you to Khor Virap as part of the itinerary. This is a great way to learn about the history and significance of the monastery while enjoying a guided excursion with other travelers. Once you arrive at Khor Virap, you can explore the area, including the underground chambers, the church, and the stunning views of Mount Ararat.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Khor Virap, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Khor Virap

Khor Virap is a historic monastery in Armenia, so there are no typical foods of Khor Virap itself. However, I can give you some traditional Armenian dishes that you may find in the surrounding area: 1. Dolma - grape leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices. Sometimes vegetarian filling is also used.
2. Lavash - a traditional Armenian bread that is thin, soft and has a slight sour taste.
3. Khorovats - Armenian barbeque, usually made with pork, beef or lamb cooked over open flames.
4. Harissa - a traditional Armenian dish, made from wheat grains or ground wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb, flavored with butter and served hot.
5. Khash - a traditional Armenian soup made from cow's legs by boiling them for hours with salt and garlic until the stock is thick and the meat is tender. It is usually eaten as a breakfast or after a hard night of drinking with traditional snacks like garlic, bread, and vodka.
6. Ghapama - a pumpkin-filled with boiled rice, dried fruits, nuts, and honey. It is usually served during Christmas and New year’s holidays.
7. Gata - A cake, made with wheat flour, butter, sugar, and milk. It often comes with different fillings like honey, walnuts, and dates. Armenian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and hearty portions. I hope this helps you to try out some new dishes on your trip!
You can find general info about typical foods in Armenia here.

Is Khor Virap an expensive destination for tourists?

Khor Virap is not considered an expensive destination compared to other popular tourist destinations. Armenia, in general, is an affordable country for travelers. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are relatively low compared to European countries, for example. However, the cost of visiting Khor Virap will depend on your individual travel preferences and budget. For instance, the cost of guided tours, souvenirs, and admission fees may increase the overall cost. But in general, Khor Virap offers a good value for your money, and it is definitely worth a visit!

Where to find accomodation in Khor Virap

The Khor Virap Monastery is located in the Ararat Province of Armenia, near the border with Turkey. The best areas to find accommodation to visit Khor Virap would be the nearby towns of Areni, Yeghegnadzor, or Goris. Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia, is also a popular base for exploring Khor Virap and the surrounding region. From Yerevan, it is roughly a one-hour drive to Khor Virap.
You can check hotel prices at Khor Virap here:
Booking.com

Is Khor Virap a safe destination for tourists?

Khor Virap is considered a safe place for tourists. Armenia is generally a safe country for visitors, with low crime rates, friendly locals, and a hospitable culture. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors should still exercise basic safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended, avoiding walking alone in poorly-lit areas at night, and being aware of their surroundings. It is also recommended to follow local customs and laws, and to respect cultural differences.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Armenia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Khor Virap.

What type of travelers will enjoy Khor Virap the most?

Khor Virap is a historical site located in Armenia, it is a great place for all types of travelers to visit. However, it may be best suited for couples or families who are interested in history and culture. The site is known for its stunning views of Mount Ararat, which can be particularly romantic for couples. Moreover, there is not much fun or entertainment available in the area surrounding Khor Virap, so young people looking for a party or nightlife may not find it to be their ideal destination. Families with older children who are interested in history and culture may also find it to be a great place to visit.

How to get around Khor Virap

To move around Khor Virap in Armenia, you can use a car, a taxi, or a tour bus. It is not recommended to use public transport as it may not be reliable and may not follow a fixed schedule. Hiring a car or a taxi will give you more flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. Alternatively, you can opt for a tour bus which will take you to Khor Virap and other nearby attractions. It is important to note that some roads may be narrow and unpaved, so it is advisable to have an experienced driver if you plan to hire a car or a taxi.

What to see around Khor Virap

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Khor Virap: 1. Noravank Monastery - Located about 50 kilometers southwest of Khor Virap, Noravank is a stunning monastery complex that is nestled in a narrow gorge. 2. Areni Winery - A 30-minute drive northeast of Khor Virap, Areni Winery offers guests the opportunity to taste and buy some of Armenia's finest wines. 3. Tatev Monastery and Wings of Tatev - This famous monastery is located in the southern part of Armenia and is about a 2-hour drive from Khor Virap. You can take the Wings of Tatev, the world's longest aerial tramway to reach there. 4. Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery - Located about an hour's drive from Khor Virap, these two historic sites are known for their stunning architecture dating back to the 1st century AD.
5. Lake Sevan - Located around 100 km from Khor Virap, Lake Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia, with beautiful blue-green waters and surrounded by gorgeous mountains. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Armenia you can click here.

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