GEORGIA ARMENIA

After breakfast, we embark on a spectacular journey north along the historic Georgian Military Highway, tracing ancient trade routes through the Great Caucasus Mountains. Our first stop is the Ananuri Fortress Complex, a beautifully preserved cluster of churches and towers overlooking the turquoise Zhinvali Reservoir a perfect photo opportunity. We then continue to Gudauri, Georgia’s famous ski resort, where lunch awaits. Here, we pause at the Gudauri Panorama Viewpoint for awe-inspiring mountain vistas before continuing to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi). From there, rugged 4x4 vehicles take us up to the Gergeti Trinity Church, a 14th-century monastery dramatically set against Mount Kazbek truly an unforgettable highlight. Later, we return to Tbilisi for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, we travel to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and spiritual heart of Georgia. Here, we visit the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site revered as the burial place of Christ’s mantle, followed by a visit to the Jvari Monastery, perched high above the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers a breathtaking view that has inspired pilgrims for centuries. After lunch, we journey to the Uplistsikhe Cave Town, one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus, exploring its intricate network of caves, tunnels, and rock-hewn chambers that once formed a bustling Silk Road city. Returning to Tbilisi in the evening, we take a funicular ride up to Mtatsminda Park, a charming amusement park offering panoramic night views of the glittering city below.

Today, we head east to Kakheti, Georgia’s picturesque wine region. Our first stop is the Bodbe Monastery, the serene resting place of St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia. A short drive leads us to Sighnaghi, the romantic “City of Love,” known for its cobblestone streets, terracotta rooftops, and sweeping views of the Alazani Valley. Post lunch, we visit a local winery for a guided wine-tasting session and masterclass, learning about the ancient Qvevri winemaking method, a UNESCO-recognized tradition. After this enriching experience, we return to Tbilisi for overnight stay.

After breakfast and check-out, we visit the magnificent Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) — the largest cathedral in Georgia and a symbol of national faith and resilience. Its serene grandeur offers the perfect farewell to our Georgian journey. We then proceed to cross the border into Armenia, a land of breathtaking landscapes and deep-rooted heritage. After completing immigration formalities, we continue to visit the Haghpat Monastery, one of Armenia’s largest and most beautiful monastery complexes, renowned for its medieval architecture and serene mountain setting. Next, we drive through Dilijan, often called “Little Switzerland” for its lush forests and calm atmosphere. Later, we stop at the stunning Lake Sevan, one of the world’s largest high-altitude freshwater lakes, for some wonderful photo opportunities. Dinner and overnight stay at Lake Sevan area.

After breakfast, we proceed to Yerevan, the capital city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Our sightseeing tour covers Republic Square, State University, Mother Armenia Monument, and the Parliament Building. We then visit the Cascade Complex, a grand stairway offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, we continue to Etchmiadzin Cathedral, often called the “Vatican of Armenia” — the spiritual center of Armenian Christianity. We also visit the Museum of the Mother Cathedral, home to priceless relics including the Holy Lance. Overnight stay in Yerevan.

Today, we explore the historical treasures around Garni. Our first stop is Charent’s Arch, offering a breathtaking view of Mount Ararat. We then visit the Garni Temple, the only surviving Greco-Roman style temple in Armenia, followed by the striking Symphony of Stones, a natural basalt rock formation. Our journey continues to the Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site partially carved into the mountainside. Known as “The Monastery of the Spear,” it is believed to have once housed the spear used during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

After breakfast, we check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for our return flight to Cochin — taking with us unforgettable memories of Georgia and Armenia’s natural beauty, ancient monuments, and warm culture.