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Garni Gorge, Garni

4.8
#1 of 7 in Parks in Kotayk Province
Mountain · Canyon
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Marvel at impressive basalt column formations carved by the Goght River at Garni Gorge, a picturesque ravine with an eponymous pre-Christian temple of Mithras perched atop its steep cliff. Thousands of hexagonal volcanic rock bars protrude from the clifftop like a giant curtain, forming what locals call the "Symphony of the Stones." You'll see some goatherd huts, an 11th-century bridge, and a few kiosks selling dry fruits. Located some 23 km (14.3 mi) east of Yerevan, the site is best visited by 4x4 on a dirt road, and offers scenic hiking opportunities. Arrange to visit Garni Gorge and other attractions in Garni using our Garni day trip planner.
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Garni Gorge reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
135 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • The gorge has an amazing arrangement of basalt columns along its side walls. It stretches a long way down the gorge. If you're too energetic walking a long way down there's a little shuttle train... 
    The gorge has an amazing arrangement of basalt columns along its side walls. It stretches a long way down the gorge. If you're too energetic walking a long way down there's a little shuttle train...  more »
  • The gorge is lined with organ pipe like basalt pillars. They make a stunning display that can be easily seen from the temple. 
    The gorge is lined with organ pipe like basalt pillars. They make a stunning display that can be easily seen from the temple.  more »
Google
  • Wonderful place. You have the Roman temple from 2000 years ago here to visit on the plateau up top and then, down in the valley, the basalt columns, known as Symphony of the Stones. Not very far from Yerevan, about 20 km, and a 45 minute taxi ride. The basalt columns are amazing as they are sometimes hanging over your heads, hexagonal crystals of basalt formed by cooling lava. 200 dram to walk down the metalled pathway to the Stone Symphony isn't very expensive. Highly recommended that you see this while in Armenia. People are very friendly and it is nice even in winter. Visited February 2023, cool weather around 5C but still able to visit.
  • Amazing thing of nature. So beautiful. Everyone in our group love this place.

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