Noravank Monastery was one of the highlights from my time in Armenia. But, it is fairly remote and can be difficult to get to! Here I will outline everything you need to know about visiting the Noravank Monastery in Armenia.
Pin Me for Later!
Would you believe that the image of Noravank Monastery was one of the things that convinced me that I had to visit Armenia?!
Though one of thousands of monasteries found in Armenia, Noravank Monastery is arguably the most picturesque. Tucked away between shockingly red rock walls and winding mountainous roads, the trek to get here is well worth the effort.
So let’s talk about the history, how to find it, and exactly what to expect when visiting Noravank Monastery in Armenia!
Visiting Noravank Monastery
Where is Noravank Monastery?
Noravank Monastery is located in the Vayots Dzor province of Southern Armenia. It sits roughly 20-30 minutes outside of Areni, a well-known wine region in the country.
A Brief History
Armenia was the world’s first Christian nation, so it comes as no surprise that one can find many religious artifacts here. In fact, more than 4,000 churches and monasteries are scattered throughout the country’s scenic landscape.
Noravank Monastery, however, is arguably the most beautiful of all. It was founded in 1205 by Bishop Hovhannes, making it over 800 years old today. This monastery was master sculptor and architect Momik’s last construction – and what a piece of work to go out on, if I may say it!
Noravank is pretty resilient. It has survived through various attacks and natural disasters, largely unscathed. Despite a major earthquake in 1340 and an attack by the Mongols, it’s still standing tall!
Ruins around the area suggest that this was not as isolated of a location as it is today. The churches and tombs date back to the 13th century. The fortress walls were added in the 17-18th century. Parts of the complex have been restored to their original glory as recent as the late 1990’s.
In 2002, Noravank became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the grounds, descend into the structures, and light candles inside the monastery itself.
While I was visiting, I got to see a priest come and bless the buildings with frankincense in the early morning, and the spicy smell made it all the more magical.
You May Also Like: 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Armenia
How to Visit Noravank Monastery
Noravank is fairly remote. However, you have a couple of options on how to get there.
1. Rent a Car
Renting a car is my top recommendation for visiting Noravank. First of all, this allows you to go as early as you like and stay as long as you like. It also gives you the freedom to start your journey from Yerevan, Areni, Lake Sevan, or any one of the many places worth visiting in Armenia.
I usually find the best prices on rental cars here.
Noravank sits 73 miles (117km) south of Yerevan, and I suggest allowing between 2 and 3 hours for the drive. This is because the roads are super curvy the closer you get, and Armenia has a pretty strict speed limit. Not to mention, if you are anything like me, you will probably want to stop and take photographs along the way.
2. Join a Tour
Noravank is also possible to visit through an organized tour. This will not only save you time from planning, but it will also expose you to several other locations you may not have seen otherwise.
Your first option is a completely private tour. This one takes you to not only Noravank, but also stops in Areni. Areni features four celebrated wineries and you will also get to tour the oldest winery here, which is inside of a cave. Though this tour does cost quite a bit, the drive and entrance fees are included.
A second option would be to join a larger group tour. This one will save you quite a bit of money, and you will still get to see Noravank, a couple of other monasteries, and also the famous Tatev cable car ride.
So, whatever your priority is – saving money, saving time, or having a bit more control – these are all great options.
What To Expect at Noravank Monastery
When you first spot the monastery, it sits far away – tiny – on top of a green hillside. I felt pretty excited when it came into view because this was one of the main priorities as far as things to see in Armenia.
The red-tinted mountains surrounding Noravank are truly spectacular, and make the place feel like it might be out of a fairy tale. In fact, I’d recommend visiting for the location alone, even if you aren’t super interested in the history.
Holy Mother of God / Surb Astavatsatin Church
The Noravank Monastery complex has several structures on site, but hands down the most visited one is the Surb Astavatsatin Church. This is the one with the teeny-tiny stairs leading up toward the second story and an opening into the basement, where visitors can light a candle.
In the early days, Christian burial structures in Armenia were often tower-like, which could explain why this church is so unique.
Unfortunately, it is no longer allowed to climb the tiny stairs. I was told that a Russian tourist fell off and got injured, so they have now put up signage banning it. Honestly, this is not really that surprising to me because the stairway is so narrow and has no available handrails. But, I’m still glad I got to climb when I visited!
This construction of this stunning church was financed by Prince Burtel Orbelian, the governor of Syunik in the early-mid 14th century. His body as well as his family’s bodies are all buried in the next structure.
You May Also Like: Is Armenia Safe? A Complete Armenia Travel Guide
St. John the Baptist / Karapet Church
I found this church to be incredibly picturesque due to the close red cliffs just behind it.
It was destroyed twice by earthquakes mentioned above, but has now been restored to its original condition as of 1998. Inside, there are a series of raised, inscribed gravestones on the floor. some of which belong to Prince Orbelian and his family.
Behind, you will come across the Surb Grigor Chapel. It is hidden behind St John the Baptist church and features an altar covered in vibrant cloths – the only non-earth tones here.
Noravank Monastery Basics:
- Hours: 9am to 6pm. However, it is not gated so you could realistically visit anytime. Be aware that the museum and facilities will be closed though.
- Time to Spend Here: Allot 1 hour for a typical visitor. If you plan to photograph like I did, you might need longer.
- Visit the On-Site Museum. Here you can gain a deeper understanding of Noravank’s past. The museum entrance fee is 500AMD or $1USD, and you’ll find a gift shop as well as a restaurant next door.
- Are there restrooms here? Yes. They cost 500AMD or $1USD.
When to Visit?
You can definitely visit Noravank Monastery all-year-round, but be aware that in the winter, roads may very well be icy and dangerous. Some roads may be closed. Consider one of the tours above if you are not comfortable driving in the winter.
Spring and Autumn are the most ideal time to visit. Temperatures are comfortable and the area is less crowded than in the Summer month.
If you do visit during the summer, be prepared for hot weather. Visit early in the morning or later towards closing time. Avoid mid day if possible.
Where to Go Next:
The closest town to Noravank Monastery is the town of Areni, where I stayed for several days. This area is well known for their history of winemaking, including the oldest winery on Earth, known as the “Bird Cave.” It dates back 6,100 years and you can tour the caves and excavation site.
Depending where you are coming from, you also don’t want to miss Yerevan. There is a lot to see and do here in the capital city.
***
Noravank was one of the sights that convinced me I had to visit Armenia ASAP. And, it exceeded my expectations!
It’s hard to explain how beautiful this vibrant mountain and valley site is, and how awe-inspiring the construction of the monasteries is. You don’t want to miss this! Add Noravank to your Armenia itinerary, stat!
Need More Armenia Inspiration? Check out these posts!
- A One Week Armenia Itinerary
- Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia
- All About the Blue Mosque in Yerevan, Armenia
- A Complete Guide to Visiting Noravank Monastery
- Is Armenia Safe? A Complete Armenia Travel Guide
- Things to Do in Areni, Armenia
- 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Armenia
- The Best Places to Visit in Armenia
Pin Me for Later!
Leave a Reply