Khor Virap Monastery: A Pilgrimage to History and Faith
Discover Armenia's spiritual heart at Khor Virap Monastery, with stunning views of Mount Ararat and a glimpse into the nation's Christian origins.
Khor Virap Monastery, meaning 'deep dungeon,' is a significant religious site in Armenia, near the village of Pokr Vedi. It is known for its historical importance, stunning views of Mount Ararat, and its role in the conversion of 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
- Dress modestly when visiting the monastery; women should cover their heads and shoulders.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best views of Mount Ararat.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like Noravank Monastery or the Areni wine region.
- Be prepared for a steep descent into the pit; those with claustrophobia should be aware of the confined space.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Yerevan, take the metro to Sasuntsi Davit station. Exit and find the Intertown Bus Station behind the train station. Look for a minibus (marshrutka) to Ararat; the sign will likely be in Armenian or Russian. The bus ride to the village of Pokr Vedi, which is about 4 km from Khor Virap, costs around 500 AMD. From Pokr Vedi, you can walk (about 4 km), take a taxi (approx. 1,000-2,000 AMD), or try to hitchhike to the monastery.
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Taxi/Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from Yerevan to Khor Virap takes approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 4,500-6,000 AMD for the one-way trip. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.
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Driving
From Yerevan, head south on the E117 highway. After about 30 kilometers, turn right onto the H11 road, which leads directly to Khor Virap Monastery. Parking is available near the monastery. There are no tolls on this route.
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