Top Things To Do In Goshavank Monastery (Dilijan) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Goshavank Monastery

1. 1. Guided Historical Tour of Goshavank Monastery

   Embark on a journey through time with a Guided Historical Tour of Goshavank Monastery, an architectural masterpiece nestled in the lush forests near Dilijan. This ancient monastery, named after the prominent Armenian scholar Mkhitar Gosh, is known for its intricate khachkars (cross-stones) and rich history dating back to the 12th century. Visitors will explore the St. Astvatsatsin Church, the main cathedral, admire its stunning frescoes, and learn about the lives of medieval Armenian monks. The tour also covers the adjacent school and scriptorium, where manuscripts were once meticulously copied. Your knowledgeable guide will delve into the fascinating stories behind the monastery's construction and its significance in Armenian spiritual life. This immersive experience is not just a historical tour; it’s a window into Armenia's medieval golden age.

   Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: $30

2. 2. Photography Workshop

   Capture the essence of Armenia's religious heritage with our Photography Workshop at Goshavank Monastery. This activity is tailored for both amateur and professional photographers who wish to hone their skills in one of Armenia’s most picturesque settings. The workshop includes sessions on landscape, architectural, and portrait photography, focusing on the monastery's unique features, such as the elaborate khachkars and the stunning natural scenery that surrounds it. Participants will learn about composition, lighting, and storytelling through their lenses. The course aims to help photographers craft images that reflect the serene and spiritual atmosphere of Goshavank. Each session offers personal attention from the instructor, ensuring that you leave with not only beautiful photographs but also improved photography techniques.

   Duration: 3 hours · Price: $75

3. 3. Candle Making Class

   Step into the time-honored tradition of candle making with this unique class set in the historic Goshavank Monastery. In a serene corner of the complex, participants learn the ancient art of crafting candles from natural beeswax—a skill passed down through generations of Armenian artisans. The process, from melting the wax to attaching the wick, is meditative and connects you to the monastic life of the past. As candles have always played a vital role in Armenian religious ceremonies, this hands-on activity provides insight into their cultural and spiritual significance. Guests take home their handmade candles, infused with the tranquil energy of the monastery, as a memento of their visit and a tangible piece of Armenian heritage.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: $40

4. 4. Calligraphy Lesson

   Experience the ancient art of Armenian calligraphy at Goshavank Monastery with a hands-on Calligraphy Lesson. Attendees will sit at historic desks in the monastery's old scriptorium, where countless manuscripts were once penned. Under the guidance of a master calligrapher, you'll learn the unique characters of the Armenian alphabet, known for its elegant and flowing script. The lesson covers the foundational techniques needed to create your own beautiful inscriptions. As you practice the graceful strokes, you'll gain an appreciation for this meticulous craft that holds a special place in the nation's culture. The class offers a rare opportunity to connect with Armenia's literary traditions while creating your own piece of art to take back home.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: $50

5. 5. Herbal Tea Tasting

   Join us for a relaxing Herbal Tea Tasting experience amidst the calming ambiance of Goshavank Monastery. This delightful activity is set in the monastery's well-preserved gardens, where you'll discover a variety of aromatic herbs used in traditional Armenian tea blends. Your host, an expert in local flora, will share knowledge about the medicinal properties of different herbs and the cultural importance of tea drinking in Armenia. As you sample teas crafted from the finest hand-picked ingredients, enjoy the soothing natural environment and the panoramic views of the surrounding forest. It's a perfect opportunity to unwind and immerse yourself in local customs, appreciating the harmonious relationship between the monastery and nature.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: $20

6. 6. Icon Painting Workshop

   Explore your creative spirit with an Icon Painting Workshop at the tranquil Goshavank Monastery. This meditative art form has played a significant role in Armenian religious culture for centuries, and this workshop offers a chance to learn the fundamentals of iconography. Guided by a skilled instructor, participants will paint their own icons, focusing on the symbolism and techniques that give this art its sacred and timeless quality. You’ll work with natural pigments and gold leaf, following patterns that monks themselves might have used. This workshop isn't just an art lesson; it's an opportunity to connect with Armenia's deep spiritual heritage and to take home a piece of that history in the form of your own hand-painted icon.

   Duration: 4 hours · Price: $90

7. 7. Wildflower Walk

   The Wildflower Walk around Goshavank Monastery is an enchanting activity for nature lovers and those seeking peace amidst the stunning landscapes of Dilijan. This guided walk takes you through meadows blooming with a diverse array of wildflowers, many of which are endemic to this region of Armenia. A local botanist will point out the various species and share insights into their habitats and uses in traditional medicine. As you stroll, you'll learn about the interplay between the natural environment and the monastic community that once thrived here. The walk is more than a simple nature tour; it is a spiritual experience that reflects the monastery's deep connection with the land—a sanctuary for both flora and divine contemplation.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: $35

8. 8. Manuscript Illumination Class

   Delve into the world of medieval Armenian art with a Manuscript Illumination Class held in the historical setting of Goshavank Monastery. This bespoke class provides an introduction to the intricate art of manuscript illumination—an essential aspect of Armenia’s cultural heritage. Under the tutelage of an experienced artist, participants will learn about the ancient techniques of decorating religious texts with vibrant colors and gold leaf. You’ll gain hands-on experience in creating your own illuminated page, drawing inspiration from historical patterns and designs. This enlightening session not only teaches a unique art form but also connects you with the scholarly traditions that once flourished within the monastery's walls.

   Duration: 3 hours · Price: $80

9. 9. Sacred Music Concert

   Experience the ethereal beauty of Armenian sacred music with a concert held within the sublime acoustics of Goshavank Monastery's main chapel. Surrounded by the ancient stone walls, attendees will be immersed in the sounds of a professional choir performing sharakans—traditional Armenian chants that date back to the medieval period. The repertoire includes pieces that have been passed down for centuries, many of which would have been sung by the very monks who inhabited the monastery. This concert is not merely a musical performance; it’s a living connection to Armenia’s spiritual past, reverberating through the timeless arches and inviting reflection and tranquility.

   Duration: 1.5 hours

10. 10. Eco-Tour & Traditional Arts and Crafts Market

    Discover the natural wonders of the Goshavank Monastery area with an Eco-Tour that combines Armenia's beautiful landscapes with its vibrant tradition of arts and crafts. The tour includes guided hikes through the ancient beech forests surrounding the monastery, each alive with bird calls and whispering winds. Visitors will gain insight into the importance of these ecosystems both to the local biodiversity and the historic monastic communities. At the conclusion of the hike, the tour leads to a bustling market where artisans from nearby villages showcase their handmade crafts, including textiles, wood carvings, and ceramics. Guests are invited to browse and shop, taking a piece of Armenian culture and the spirit of Goshavank with them.

    Duration: 4 hours · Price: $60