(STEX04) 11D EXPLORATION OF CAUCASUS

Your voyage to the Caucasus begins with a flight to Baku, Azerbaijan.

(Dinner)

Salam eleykim! Welcome to Azerbaijan. On arrival, head out on a tour of the Absheron Peninsula, visiting the eternally burning Yanardagh fire mountain. Yanar Dag is the most well-known volcanoes as the mountain has been burning for as long as anyone can remember. These flames jet out at least three meters into the air, through a porous layer of sandstone. Next, continue to visit the Haydar Aliyev cultural center, a complex construction that includes an Auditorium, museum, exhibition hall designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid. Then continue to the old town where we can view the Palace of Shirvanshahs, Maiden tower and the caravansaries.

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This morning, continue to Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, where you can see more than 6,000 rock drawings left by early human Settlement almost 40,000 years ago. Afterward, head towards Sheki. Upon arrival, visit the Sheki Khan Palace, admire the blend of French stained glass, Russian woodwork, Ottoman ceramics, and Iranian mirror work. Marvel at the intricate tilework, depicting the Shaki cavalry bearing pikes adorned with mustachioed heads, while the carved mirrors reflect the stunning sun.

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After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Lagodekhi on the Azerbaijan-Georgia border. Travel to the Kakheti region, famous for its wine making and welcoming hospitality. From here, both the snowy Caucasus mountains and bountiful green valleys are visible. Continue to the beautiful 18th-century town of Sighnaghi, known for its quaint stone walls, small houses with terracotta roofs and decorated balconies. Admire the picturesque views of the Alazani Valley and Great Caucasus mountains.

(Breakfast/Lunch/Georgia Folklore Dinner)

Today, we shall start our journey to Caucasus Mountains. Drive up the famous Georgian Military Highway (leading to the Georgian- Russian Border), your first stop is Ananuri architectural complex, the two churches and the fortress overlooking Zhinvali Water Reservior. Next, continue onto Gori, the homeland of Stalin, to visit Stalin’s house, museum and train wagon. At the Stalin museum, learn about the life of the infamous dictator at the exhibit which includes unique photos, gifts and furniture. Thereafter, visit Mtskheta, the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia. See UNESCO Heritage Sites such as the 6th century Jvari Monastery and the impressive Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where the Robe of Christ is purported to be buried.

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After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour in Tbilisi. Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia from the 5th century. The city tour includes visiting

the Old Town, Metekhi church, the Abanotuban, Narikala – the main fortress of Tbilisi. Walking along some narrow streets, you will find some carpet and souvenir shops. Next,we will continue our excursion in the Old Town to visit the 11 century Sioni Cathedral, 6th century Anchiskhati Church, Georgian National Museum and the Rustaveli Avenue. Afterward, onboard the cable train to Funicular for the views of the city. Thereafter, free at own leisure.

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After breakfast, drive to Sadakhlo, a village at the Georgia-Armenia border. Begin the Armenian leg of your adventure with a visit to Haghpat monastery, which is listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO. Haghpat stands as an example of one of the most outstanding works of medieval Armenian architecture. Later, travel to the picturesque resort town of Dilijan, often refered to as the “Little Switzerland of Armenia’’. Dilijan’s central Sharambeyan Street has been preserved and maintained as a charming “old town”, complete with craftsman`s workshops, a gallery and a museum. Stay overnight at a hotel in Dilijan.

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After breakfast drive to the reflective waters of Lake Sevan, nicknamed “The Pearl of Armenia”. Sevan is one of the largest fresh-water high- altitude lakes in the world. Visit the romantic Sevanavank Monastery, which overlooks the water on the Peninsula. Move on to the village of Garni to visit the 1st century Garni Temple, built by the Armenian King Tiridates and dedicated to Mithra, the God of the Sun. Travel northeast of Garni, higher up the gorge of the Azat River, where there is a magnificent Geghard monastery. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is partly carved out of a mountain and surrounded by cliffs. In the afternoon, drive to the capital city of Armenia, Yerevan.

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After breakfast, become familiar with the streets of Yerevan on a guided city tour. Established in 782 BC, Armenia’s capital is one

of the oldest cities in the world. Nowadays it’s a lively city, where ancient culture is mixed with a modern lifestyle. Visit Echmiadzin, the spiritual center for all Armenians. The legend goes that the Echmiadzin Cathedral was designated in a vision where Christ came to Earth and struck the plains with a golden hammer. A stop at the ruins of Zvartnots Temple, a stunning example of 7th century Armenian architecture before we continue to Ashtarak. Situated on the right bank of the river Kasakh, we shall start our tour by visiting the large Karmavor church built in the VII-th century. The temple has a modest architecture but is considered one of the most ancient and important buildings of the town.

(Breakfast)

Free at leisure till transfer to airport for flight back to Singapore.

Arrive in Singapore with sweet and fond memories of your Europe Tour with Super- Travels.

* Azerbaijan Visa is needed, to apply before departure. (Self-expense)

** Itinerary might reshuffle without prior notice

*** Walking with luggage required during border crossing