Wings of Tatev
Syunik'
The Wings of Tatev is a remarkable aerial tramway located in the Syunik region of Armenia, connecting the village of Halidzor to the Tatev Monastery. Completed in 2010, it holds the Guinness World Record for the longest non-stop reversible aerial tramway, spanning 5.7 kilometers in a single section. This engineering marvel dramatically reduces the journey time to Tatev Monastery from 40 minutes by road to about 12 minutes by cable car. The tramway cabins soar up to 320 meters above the Vorotan gorge, providing passengers with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscape and the ancient monastic complex. Each cabin accommodates 25 to 30 passengers along with an attendant, and the system can transport approximately 240 passengers per hour. The project was realized by the Austrian-Swiss Doppelmayr Garaventa Group and was part of the Tatev Revival Project, aimed at restoring the monastery and supporting local communities. Operating year-round, the Wings of Tatev offers a unique blend of modern technology and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit attraction for travelers seeking both adventure and history in Armenia.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during the summer months when the tramway operates daily from 9 am to 8 pm, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenic ride and explore Tatev Monastery. Purchasing tickets in advance is advisable during peak season to avoid queues. The project reinvests its proceeds into local restoration efforts, so supporting the tramway contributes to preserving Armenian cultural heritage. Comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the monastic complex and nearby hiking trails. Note that in colder months, operating hours are shorter and the tramway is closed on Mondays outside the summer season.
Interesting facts
- •Wings of Tatev holds the Guinness World Record for the longest non-stop reversible aerial tramway at 5.7 km.
- •The tramway reaches a maximum height of 320 meters above the Vorotan gorge, offering spectacular views.
- •It reduces the journey time to Tatev Monastery from a steep 40-minute road trip to about 12 minutes by cable car.
- •The project reinvests all profits into restoring the Tatev Monastery and supporting the local community.
- •The tramway was built by the renowned Austrian-Swiss Doppelmayr Garaventa Group, experts in cable car construction.
History
The Wings of Tatev aerial tramway was completed and officially launched on October 16, 2010, as part of the Tatev Revival Project initiated by Ruben Vardanyan and Veronika Zonabend.
Constructed by the Doppelmayr Garaventa Group, it set a Guinness World Record shortly after opening for being the longest non-stop reversible aerial tramway in the world.
The project was funded with over 22 million USD, focusing not only on the tramway but also on infrastructure improvements and local community development.
Since its opening, it has transported over one million passengers, significantly boosting tourism and accessibility to the historic Tatev Monastery.
Place Guide
Halidzor Lower Station
The starting point of the Wings of Tatev cable car, featuring ticket offices, a restaurant named Tatevatun, and visitor facilities. It serves as the gateway to the scenic aerial journey.
Wings of Tatev Cable Car2010
A record-holding aerial tramway spanning 5.7 km in a single section, carrying up to 30 passengers per cabin. The ride offers panoramic views of the Vorotan gorge and surrounding landscapes, reaching heights of up to 320 meters.
Tatev Upper Station and Monastery9th century (monastery)
The upper terminal of the cable car adjacent to the historic Tatev Monastery complex, a medieval Armenian monastery dating back to the 9th century. Visitors can explore the monastery, nearby museums, and hiking trails.
Contact
Phone: 096 463333
