2-Day Hiking and Sightseeing Tour in Armenia's Lori Region

Day 1: Journey to Kayan Fortress, Haghpat, and Sanahin Monasteries

Starting Point: Yerevan (170 km to Lori Region)

Highlights: Kayan Fortress, Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)

We begin our journey from Yerevan with a scenic drive to Lori Region. After covering a distance of 170 km, we’ll pause for a coffee break before starting our hike to the historic Kayan Fortress.

Kayan fortress from the top of adjacent cliff

Kayan Fortress Trail

Kayan Fortress is a historic site strategically located between the Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries. This imposing structure is perched on a ridge between two canyons overlooking the Debed River. Spanning approximately 120 meters in length, the fortress features 15 semi-circular defensive towers.

Camping in the territory of Kayan Fortress

The trail to Kayan Fortress is about 1.5 km one way and takes less than an hour to complete. Within its boundaries lies the Dsevank Monastery, referred to by the historian Arakel Davrizhetsi as “Tes yev ants” (“See and pass by”).

Aerial photo of Haghpat Monastery

After the hike, we’ll visit the architectural marvels of Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, dating back to the 10th century.

Accommodation: Overnight stay in a cozy hotel in the Lori Region. Personal recommendations are available, but alternative options are always welcome.

Day 2 we will start with a visit to Odzun church

Day 2: Odzun Church and Horomayr Monastery Hike

Starting Point: Hotel in Lori Region

Highlights: Odzun Church, Horomayr Monastery

We start the day with a visit to the beautiful Odzun Church, a gem of early medieval Armenian architecture. Following this, we embark on a hike through the captivating Lori Gorge, offering some of the most stunning views in Armenia.

Enjoying the breathtaking views of the Lori Gorge! Lower Horomayr Monastery is nestled at the base of the cliffs

Horomayr Monastery Trail

Horomayr Monastery is a remarkable medieval complex located 1.5 km southeast of Odzun village. Built during the 12th and 13th centuries, the monastery consists of two distinct groups of monuments:

• Lower Horomayr Complex: Nestled on the left bank of the Debed River, under a dramatic hanging rock.

• Upper Horomayr Complex (Dzoraezri Monastery): Perched on the edge of the valley.

In the right corner of the image, you can see the Lower Horomayr Complex

The trail to the lower complex spans 2km and takes approximately 1 hour one way. The hike is an out-and-back route, offering awe-inspiring views of the gorge and surrounding landscapes. After completing the hike, we will begin our return journey to Yerevan, stopping at a cozy food court for a lunch break. We expect to arrive in Yerevan around 6:00 PM. Alternatively, we can take the Yerevan-Sevan highway and include a visit to the Sevanavank Monastery on the way back.

Tour Details

Included in the Price:

• Pick-up and drop-off in Yerevan

• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle

• Professional guide service

Not Included:

• Airport transfers

• Insurance

• Lunch (Lunchboxes can be arranged for an additional fee)

• Hotel stay; the tourists are also covering the cost of my one-night hotel stay

Tour Price:

• Group of 1-4: $500 USD (The price does not include hotel stay) For larger groups, please contact us for customized pricing.