Hiking trail in Kotayk Province, 32km from Yerevan, Armenia
Garni Gorge to Symphony of Stones
This popular hike descends from Garni Temple into the dramatic Azat River gorge to reach the Symphony of Stones — natural hexagonal basalt columns that resemble organ pipes. The hike involves some scrambling and the return is steeply uphill but the geological formations are extraordinary.
The Symphony of Stones is a striking geological formation in the Azat River gorge, approximately 32 kilometres southeast of Yerevan in Kotayk Province. The site features tens of thousands of naturally occurring hexagonal basalt columns formed by the rapid cooling of ancient lava flows — a process identical to that behind Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway and Iceland's Svartifoss. The columns rise up to 50 metres in some sections, their regular geometry giving the cliff face the appearance of an enormous pipe organ.
The standard approach begins at Garni village, home to the only surviving Greco-Roman temple in Armenia's post-Soviet territory. From the temple precinct, a well-worn but steep path descends the gorge wall roughly 250 vertical metres to the Azat River level. The descent takes 30 to 40 minutes and involves stone steps, loose earth, and some basic scrambling on rock outcrops. Trekking poles help on both the descent and the steeper return climb. No permit or fee is required for the trail itself.
At the river level, hikers walk upstream for 20 to 30 minutes along the riverbank to reach the most dramatic section of columns. The path follows the water's edge and involves boulder-hopping and occasional stream crossings that may require removing footwear during high-water periods in April and May. The columns emerge from the cliff in a sweeping concave arc; the light is best in the late morning when the sun reaches into the gorge.
Seasonal pools in the Azat River offer swimming in summer, and the gorge provides natural shade throughout the day — a relief during Yerevan's July and August heat. Wild herbs including thyme and sage grow on the gorge slopes. The hike is frequently combined with a visit to Geghard Monastery, nine kilometres further up the same valley.
The total round trip from the Garni Temple parking area is approximately four kilometres with 250 metres of elevation change. The descent and gorge walk together take about 90 minutes; allow the same time for the steep return. The entire excursion fits within two to three hours, making it viable as a half-day trip from Yerevan.
Trail area: Kotayk Province, 32km from Yerevan
Highlights
- Symphony of Stones basalt formations
- Azat River swimming holes
- Gorge views
- Wild herbs and flowers
- Can combine with Garni Temple
Tips
- Wear shoes with good grip — the descent path has loose soil and smooth rock that becomes very slippery after rain.
- Carry water from the village; there are no facilities at the gorge floor, and the uphill return is strenuous in summer heat.
- Combine the hike with Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery to fill a full day trip from Yerevan — all three sites lie within 10 kilometres of each other.
- The best light for photographing the basalt columns falls between 09:00 and 11:00 when direct sun reaches the gorge floor.
- Avoid the descent in wet weather — the clay path becomes very slippery and the risk of falls on the steep sections increases significantly.
FAQ
Is the Symphony of Stones accessible without doing the full hike?
The gorge formations are accessible only on foot; there is no road to the base of the columns. The descent from Garni Temple is mandatory and involves steep terrain. Visitors with limited mobility can view the gorge from the rim near the temple, though the columns are not clearly visible from that elevation.
How do I get to Garni from Yerevan without a car?
Marshrutkas to Garni depart from Yerevan's Gai bus station on Tigranashen Street with roughly hourly frequency on weekdays. The journey takes about 45 minutes and costs approximately 300 AMD. Taxis from Yerevan cost around 4,000–5,000 AMD one way.
Is the Azat River safe to swim in?
The pools below the columns are popular swimming spots in July and August when water levels are low. In spring (April–May) the river runs high and fast following snowmelt and is not safe for swimming. Local conditions should be assessed on arrival.
Can the gorge hike be done in sandals?
Sandals with heel straps and grip soles are manageable in dry summer conditions, but closed-toe hiking footwear is preferable, especially for the steep descent and boulder-hop river sections. Flat sandals or flip-flops are unsafe on this terrain.
Accessibility
The gorge descent and riverbank walk involve steep uneven terrain, scrambling on rock, and stream crossings; the route is not suitable for wheelchair users or strollers. The Garni Temple precinct itself is on flat ground and can be visited independently by those unable to attempt the gorge descent.
When to visit
Late May through early October offers the best combination of stable weather and manageable river levels; June and September are ideal, with comfortable temperatures and dry paths. April and early May see spectacular wildflowers but the descent path is often muddy and river crossings may be difficult.