FAQ
Tatev Monastery FAQ
Find quick answers to common questions about planning your visit to Tatev Monastery and the aerial tramway.
How to get to Tatev Monastery from Yerevan?
You can drive, take a bus, or book a guided tour. The drive takes 4-5 hours via the M2 highway through Goris. You can take a marshrutka to Goris for 3,000-4,000 AMD, then a taxi. Most visitors book a 12-14 hour day tour for convenience. Read Getting to Tatev for more details.
How long is the Wings of Tatev cable car ride?
The cable car crossing takes approximately 12 minutes each way. It covers 5,752 meters and descends 320 meters above the Vorotan Gorge.
How much are tickets for the Wings of Tatev?
A round-trip ticket on the Wings of Tatev costs around 9,000 AMD per adult. Compare guided Tickets if you do not want to drive.
Is Tatev Monastery free to enter?
Yes. Entry to the monastery itself is completely free. However, donations to the church are customary.
What is the dress code for visiting Tatev Monastery?
Modest dress is required. You cannot wear shorts, bare shoulders, or short skirts. Women are expected to cover their heads with a scarf, and men must remove their hats inside the churches. See Dress Code Guide.
How much time is needed to visit Tatev Monastery?
Plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours at the site. This gives you time to see the Saints Paul and Peter Church, the swinging pillar, and the Dzit Han oil press museum.
Can I drive to Tatev Monastery instead of taking the cable car?
Yes. You can bypass the cable car and drive the serpentine road down the Vorotan Gorge directly to Tatev village. The road is winding and requires cautious driving.
When is the best time of year to visit Tatev?
The monastery is open year-round. The best time to visit is from May to October. This period offers warmer weather and clearer views of the gorge.
What does the swinging pillar of Tatev do?
The Gavazan pillar is an 8-meter column with a pivot mechanism. Built in 904 AD, it was designed to tilt and warn residents during earthquakes or when invading armies approached.
Is the Wings of Tatev open during winter?
Yes, the complex and cable car operate year-round. However, winter weather can affect visibility and road conditions in the region.