Nestled 254 kilometers from Yerevan, the town of Goris is home to approximately 22,000 residents. Throughout its long and layered history, the name of this settlement has changed more than once — yet regardless of spelling or pronunciation, it has always carried the same poetic meaning: “Rocky Place.” And no other name could be more fitting. Goris stretches gracefully through a mountain valley, encircled by a surreal landscape of ancient caves and whimsical rock formations that seem sculpted by the hands of time and myth. Breathtaking views, pure mountain air, and a tranquil rhythm of life make Goris an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustle of Yerevan.
According to historical accounts, the first human settlements appeared here along the Vararak River in the pre-Christian era. Remarkably, until the early 20th century, the local population lived in naturally formed caves that pock the surrounding cliffs. Over time, as the need for cave dwellings diminished, the town gradually transformed into a modern urban center. A new district emerged alongside the historic core — designed by foreign architects and brought to life by local artisans, who honored traditional Armenian building techniques while embracing more contemporary urban aesthetics.
Today, Goris is more than just a destination — it is a crossroads. It lies along the route to Khndzoresk, a mesmerizing cave-city hewn into the cliffs and recognized as one of Armenia’s most remarkable historical landmarks. Goris makes for a perfect stopover — even an overnight stay — with its welcoming hotels, local eateries, and charming spots ideal for leisurely strolls and panoramic exploration.
The town sits quietly in a narrow valley, flanked by hillsides adorned with curious geological formations: jagged spires, stone columns, cones, and pyramids — all part of what locals call the “Stone Forest of Goris.” This forest of rock is a natural masterpiece carved over millennia through the erosion of volcanic stone. At the town’s entrances stand symbolic sculptures: “Zangezur” (The Gates) greets travelers arriving from Yerevan, while “Zanger” (The Stone Bells) welcomes those coming from Khndzoresk. Both are flanked by scenic viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of Goris and its timeless surroundings.
Within the town, visitors should begin at the central square, where a monument to Mesrop Mashtots — the revered creator of the Armenian alphabet — stands as a tribute to Armenia’s scholarly heritage. Nearby, you’ll find the Church of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, a local history museum chronicling Goris’s extensive past, and a selection of souvenir shops and artisan workshops. Be sure to follow the paths that lead to the outskirts — toward the Stone Forest and the caves of Goris, once inhabited like those in Khndzoresk, now silent but echoing the lives they once sheltered.
Goris differs markedly from other Armenian towns. The contrast begins with its architecture: unlike most cities in Armenia where pinkish tuff dominates, here the buildings are primarily constructed of rugged gray stone, giving the town a distinctive and solemn beauty. Take your time exploring the quiet streets with a camera in hand. Much of Goris’s charm lies in its details — intricately carved wooden balconies, whimsical nameplates on garden gates, and encounters with the warm, colorfully dressed locals. Gradually ascending the town’s sloping paths will reward you with sweeping views of fantastically shaped cliffs — a dreamscape for the imagination.
The surroundings of Goris are legendary for their numerous cave complexes — many of them once inhabited. Due to the ever-present threat of hostile neighbors, such as the Turks and Persians, local people often chose the protection of caves over the relative comfort of lowland homes. These stone shelters were not only homes, but fortresses. Many were built into high cliffs, accessible only by makeshift elevators — typically nothing more than thick ropes fastened to cave entrances. These hanging lifelines made it easier to fend off unwanted visitors and ensured the safety of those within.
Once upon a time, Khndzoresk stood as the largest settlement in Eastern Armenia. By 1913, this vertical city boasted 1,800 hand-carved homes and even seven schools — all nestled within the cliffs. During the Soviet era, its population was resettled into more conventional housing, and the historic caves were preserved as a cultural monument. Today, guided tours bring visitors to witness this unique marvel.
However, reaching Khndzoresk is not for the faint of heart. To truly experience the wonder of this cliffside village, one must brave a 200-meter suspension bridge that spans a deep gorge. The crossing is not for the timid — but the reward is incomparable.
A trip to Goris will surely captivate any traveler with a taste for discovery. The town and its nearby wonders offer a wealth of experiences — from geological oddities to cultural heritage and ancient human ingenuity.
For budget-conscious travelers, a minibus (marshrutka) offers a less comfortable but much more economical option — only 2,500 dram for a five-hour journey. Departures leave daily from the Sasuntsi David station in Yerevan at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. It’s recommended to book in advance by calling the dispatcher at 077 99 06 69 — ideally at least one day before your trip. The seats are limited and demand is high, there is a high chance to miss the bus unless booking in advance.
For the return journey from Goris to the Armenian capital, minibuses also depart at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM from the same station. To ensure a seat, contact the dispatcher at 077 04 04 14.
