Aghjots Monastery: A Sanctuary in the Armenian Highlands
Discover the ruins of Aghjots Monastery, a 13th-century Armenian monastic complex nestled in the Khosrov State Reserve near Garni.
Aghjots Monastery, also known as the Saint Stephen Monastery of Goght, is a captivating 13th-century monastic complex nestled in the Ararat Province of Armenia. Located near the villages of Goght and Garni, within the Khosrov State Reserve, this historic site offers a serene escape into Armenian spirituality and history.
A brief summary to Aghjots Monastery
- 4R45+P4J, Mets Gilanlar, AM
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and surrounding landscapes.
- Dress modestly out of respect for the sacred site and its visitors.
- Check the weather before your visit to ensure the best experience exploring the area.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
To reach Aghjots Monastery via public transport, begin by taking a marshrutka (minibus) from Yerevan to Garni. The ride takes approximately one hour and costs around 500 AMD. From Garni, hire a taxi or attempt to find a local bus heading towards Mets Gilanlar. Confirm the driver's route to ensure they can drop you off near Aghjots Monastery. The additional cost for a taxi from Garni to the Monastery is approximately 1,500-2,500 AMD.
-
Car
If traveling by car from Yerevan, take the M1 highway towards the Geghama Mountains. After about 30 kilometers, exit towards Garni. Continue driving towards Mets Gilanlar. The monastery is located off the main road, so watch for local signs. Note that the road leading to the monastery may be unpaved in sections. Parking is free but limited near the site.
-
Walking
For those already in the vicinity of Garni or Mets Gilanlar, hiking to Aghjots Monastery is a viable option. Follow local trails leading towards the monastery, keeping an eye on GPS coordinates (40.1068461, 44.8077507). Ensure you have adequate hiking gear, water, and snacks, as the terrain can be challenging. The hike from Mets Gilanlar is roughly 0.5 miles.
Discover more about Aghjots Monastery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monument
3.4 km
Explore Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in Armenia's breathtaking historical and spiritual heritage.
Garni Temple
6.6 km
Explore Armenia's only Greco-Roman temple, a majestic monument to the sun god Mihr and a symbol of pre-Christian heritage.
Azhdahak Mountain
17.7 km
Explore the stunning Azhdahak Mountain, Armenia's majestic crater known for its breathtaking views and diverse hiking trails.
Azhdahak
17.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Azhdahak, Armenia's iconic mountain peak, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Էրեբունի արգելոց
18.3 km
Discover Yerevan's ancient origins at Erebuni Fortress, an Urartian marvel with a rich history and panoramic views.
Soviet-era World War II Statue
18.6 km
Explore the Soviet-era World War II Statue, a monumental tribute to resilience and sacrifice, offering a profound glimpse into history and culture.
Old Verin Jrashen
19.2 km
Explore the haunting remnants of Old Verin Jrashen, a captivating ghost town near Yerevan, where history and mystery intertwine.
Ghegam Ridge
19.3 km
Explore Ghegam Ridge, a majestic mountain peak in Armenia offering stunning views, thrilling hikes, and rich biodiversity for nature enthusiasts.
Aghdagh Lerr
19.7 km
Explore Aghdagh Lerr, a breathtaking mountain peak in Armenia, where nature and adventure blend seamlessly amidst stunning panoramic views.
Eagle Statue
21.3 km
Explore the Eagle Statue in Yerevan, a stunning symbol of Armenian heritage offering breathtaking views and cultural significance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vahagn Waterfall
1.6 km
Discover Vahagn Waterfall: A serene nature escape in Armenia's Khosrov Forest, offering beauty, cultural history, and refreshing tranquility.
Waterfall Astghik
2.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Astghik Waterfall, a hidden paradise named after the Armenian goddess of love, offering a tranquil natural escape.
Gokht Camping
2.8 km
Discover Gokht Camping: A serene Armenian escape offering breathtaking hikes, cultural immersion, and a tranquil connection with nature.
Havuts Tar Monastery Complex
3.7 km
Explore the historical Havuts Tar Monastery Complex, a serene retreat in Armenia’s stunning landscapes, rich in culture and spirituality.
H3
3.8 km
Explore Armenia's only standing Greco-Roman temple, a majestic monument to a rich pagan past, offering stunning views and historical insights.
Geghard Monastery
3.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that embodies Armenia's rich history and stunning natural landscapes.
Cave of Stones
3.9 km
Explore the mesmerizing Cave of Stones in Mets Gilanlar, Armenia, a geological treasure offering a unique natural adventure and stunning formations.
Cross & View Point
4.9 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views and serene tranquility at Cross & View Point in Mets Gilanlar, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Water park
5.1 km
Experience aquatic fun amidst stunning scenery at Garni Water Park, a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement in Armenia's picturesque countryside.
Ущелье Черного дракона
5.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Armenia's Black Dragon Gorge near Garni, a perfect escape into nature's tranquility and dramatic landscapes.
Garni Canyon
5.7 km
Explore Garni Canyon's breathtaking basalt columns, a natural symphony carved by volcanic forces near the historic Garni Temple in Armenia.
Symphony of Stones
5.7 km
Marvel at nature's artistry in Armenia's Garni Gorge, where hexagonal basalt columns create a symphony of stone and stunning landscapes.
Դրախտ Գառնիում
5.8 km
Discover the wonders of Garni, Armenia: Explore ancient temples, breathtaking gorges, and a landscape rich in history and natural beauty.
Bird paradise
6.1 km
Discover Armenia's natural beauty at Bird Paradise in Garni, a haven for hikers and birdwatchers near the historic Garni Temple and stunning Garni Gorge.
Garni Gorge
6.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Garni Gorge in Armenia, home to the Symphony of Stones, an awe-inspiring natural wonder of basalt columns and ancient history.
Essential places to dine
Գողթ
3.4 km
Experience authentic Armenian cuisine in the picturesque village of Goght with stunning views and warm hospitality.
Գողթ
3.4 km
Discover authentic Armenian flavors at Goght's renowned restaurant, nestled near the stunning Geghard Monastery.
Գեղարդ
3.4 km
Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Geghard in Kotayk – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Lus Bread house
4.0 km
Discover authentic Armenian cuisine at Lus Bread House in Goght - where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning scenery.
Restaurant Im Ojakh
5.4 km
Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Restaurant Im Ojakh in Garni – where tradition meets flavor!
Garni Ishxananoc
5.5 km
Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Garni Ishxananoc in the breathtaking village of Garni, where tradition meets flavor.
Aghbyuri Achq
5.6 km
Discover authentic Armenian cuisine at Aghbyuri Achq in Garni – a culinary journey through rich flavors and warm hospitality.
My Garden / Իմ Այգին
5.7 km
Experience authentic Armenian cuisine in a beautiful garden setting at My Garden in Garni.
G.A.T.A. House
6.4 km
Discover authentic Armenian cuisine at G.A.T.A. House in Garni – where every dish reflects the rich heritage of Armenia.
Sergei Mot
6.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Armenian cuisine at Sergei Mot in Garni - a culinary gem showcasing tradition and taste.
Abelyan's House
6.6 km
Savor authentic Armenian flavors at Abelyan's House in picturesque Garni—where tradition meets breathtaking views.
Garnitoun
6.6 km
Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Garnitoun in Garni – where tradition meets flavor in a warm and inviting setting.
Garni Avenue Cafe & Restaurant
6.7 km
Experience authentic Armenian cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Garni Avenue Cafe & Restaurant in the heart of Garni.
Nor Noyan Aygi
6.7 km
Experience authentic Armenian cuisine at Nor Noyan Aygi in Garni—where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
Armenian cuisine
6.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Armenia in Garni with its traditional dishes and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bakery and souvenirs
3.8 km
Experience the essence of Goght with fresh baked goods and unique souvenirs at the local bakery, a true taste of Armenian culture.
ART MARKET
4.1 km
Explore a vibrant showcase of local artistry at the Art Market in Goght, where unique handcrafted treasures await your discovery.
Garni Market
5.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Armenia at Garni Market, where fresh produce and artisanal goods await your exploration.
Զաքարի խանութ
6.0 km
Explore authentic Armenian flavors at Զաքարի խանութ, a charming grocery store in Garni showcasing local culinary delights.
АРМЯНСКИЙ УГОЛОК
6.7 km
Explore Armenian Corner in Garni for unique souvenirs and a heartfelt connection to Armenia's rich culture and craftsmanship.
Продуктовый магазин
6.7 km
Discover the vibrant local products and flavors at Продуктовый магазин in Garni, a perfect stop for every traveler seeking authentic Armenian goods.
A&M Market
7.1 km
Experience the flavors of Garni at A&M Market, your go-to spot for fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic Armenian goods.
MARKET
7.7 km
Discover the heart of Garni at this vibrant market, where local produce and artisanal crafts come together in a celebration of Armenian culture.
ՀԱԹ Անդրանիկի51/2
20.0 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at ՀԱԹ Անդրանիկի51/2, a hub of unique Armenian products and local craftsmanship.
Eropa
20.0 km
Explore Eropa, Armenia's premier shopping destination, where culture meets retail in a vibrant atmosphere filled with delightful dining and entertainment options.
Anhidema
20.2 km
Explore Anhidema, a vibrant music store that connects you to the local soundscape with instruments, lessons, and cultural experiences.
hi_naski
20.2 km
Explore hi_naski, a stylish fashion accessories store offering unique and trendy items that celebrate local culture and contemporary style.
Good Store
20.2 km
Explore Good Store for unique local products and services that reflect the heart of the community, offering a truly authentic shopping experience.
Party Shop
20.2 km
Discover the ultimate party destination at Party Shop, where every celebration comes to life with vibrant supplies and exceptional service.
VIVA SHOPPING CENTRE
20.2 km
Discover a world of unique treasures and quirky finds at Viva Shopping Centre, the ultimate novelty store for tourists and locals alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hotel
5.1 km
Experience comfort and local flavors at Garni Lounge, the perfect spot to relax after exploring Armenia's stunning landscapes.
Castle House
6.7 km
Relax and unwind at Castle House, a charming bar in Garni offering local drinks, snacks, and a cozy atmosphere amidst stunning Armenian landscapes.
6100 Wine Bar
17.4 km
Discover the essence of Armenian viticulture at 6100 Wine Bar, where exquisite local and international wines await in a cozy Yerevan setting.
You Fakyu
17.7 km
Discover Kamaris’ vibrant bar scene at You Fakyu, a lively hub for craft cocktails and local brews that epitomizes Armenian hospitality.
Gorc
19.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Gorc in Lanjazat, where local culture and flavors come together in a welcoming bar setting.
Astafyan Hall
19.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of Armenian cuisine at Astafyan Hall, a top dining destination in Yerevan's vibrant Nor-Nork district.
Abovyan
19.7 km
Discover Abovyan: A vibrant Armenian town with lively bars, rich culture, and stunning landscapes waiting to be explored.
BOTUL beer & more
20.0 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at BOTUL Beer & More, a brewpub in Tumanyan offering local flavors and a cozy atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Restaurant Bardiner Ռեստորան Բարդիներ
21.4 km
Experience the best of Armenian cuisine at Restaurant Bardiner in Mayakovski, where traditional flavors meet modern flair.
Գարեջրատուն Ծղոտներ
22.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Armenian craft beers and local delicacies at Գարեջրատուն Ծղոտներ in Vedi, a lively bar experience.
Գարեջրատուն Ծղոտներ
22.7 km
Experience local Armenian hospitality at Գարեջրատուն Ծղոտներ, a lively bar in Vedi offering a rich selection of traditional beers and snacks.
Գարեջրատուն Ծղոտներ
22.7 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Գարեջրատուն Ծղոտներ, the perfect bar to savor local brews and Armenian culture in Vedi.
Թույն բար
22.8 km
Discover the vibrant night scene at Թույն բար, a local gem in Vardashen offering a lively atmosphere and exceptional drinks.
Black room
22.9 km
Experience Yerevan's nightlife at Black Room, a stylish bar in Nor-Nork offering crafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
Mouflon
23.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Yerevan at Mouflon, a cozy bar and steakhouse offering a delightful dining experience.