Khor Virap Monastery: Armenia's Spiritual Heart with Ararat Views
Discover Armenia's spiritual heritage at Khor Virap Monastery, with breathtaking views of Mount Ararat and a rich history of faith and resilience.
Khor Virap Monastery, meaning "deep dungeon," is one of Armenia's most significant religious sites. It is known for its stunning views of Mount Ararat and its historical importance as the site where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before converting Armenia to Christianity in 301 AD.
A brief summary to Khor Virap Monastery
- near the village of, H11, Pokr Vedi, 0612, AM
- +37493533685
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light for photographing Mount Ararat.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is some walking involved, including the option to descend into the pit.
- Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a religious site.
- Bring water, especially during the summer months, as it can get hot.
- Check the weather forecast before you go to ensure clear views of Mount Ararat.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Yerevan, take the metro to Sasuntsi Davit station, where you'll find the Intertown Bus Station. Look for a minibus (marshrutka) to Ararat; the ride takes about an hour and costs around 500 AMD. From Ararat, you can take a taxi to Khor Virap for approximately 1500-2000 AMD, or take the minibus #467 to the monastery for 250 AMD. Alternatively, from Pokr Vedi, walk approximately 4 km to Khor Virap.
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Taxi
A taxi directly from Yerevan to Khor Virap takes approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around 4500-6000 AMD. Negotiate the price beforehand. Some taxi drivers may offer a round trip with waiting time included.
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Driving
From Yerevan, head south on the E117 for about 30 kilometers, then take the H11 to Khor Virap. Parking is available near the monastery. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak season. No tolls are expected.
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