Gori

Tours

Explore one of the most mysterious regions of Georgia – Kartli and hear a lot about the country's history. First, visit memorable Uplistsikhe cave-town and dive into the antique life of Georgia. Then, find out more interesting facts in Gori, the hometown of the most famous Georgian, Stalin, and see the unique old capital of Georgia – Mtskheta, where you visit two UNESCO heritage sites Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Your first stop is Uplistsikhe, an antique rock-hewn town in eastern Georgia. It contains multiple structures dating from the Early Iron Age to the Late Middle Ages. It is notable for the unique mixture of various rock-cut cultures from Anatolia and Iran's pagan and Christian architecture coexistence. After exploring Uplistsikhe, you have a chance to have lunch in the region and try delicious local food. After lunch, you have two options, have free time and explore Gori, the hometown of Stalin, or visit Stalin Museum, which is a museum dedicated to the life of Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union, who was born in Gori. The Museum retains its Soviet-era characteristics, Stalin's Original house, and Stalin's railway carriage. The next stop is Jvari Monastery. The name of this monastery is translated as the "Monastery of the Cross." Jvari Monastery is the 6th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery near Mtskheta. Along with other historic structures of Mtskheta, it is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Jvari Monastery stands on the rocky mountain top at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, overlooking the town of Mtskheta, which was formerly the capital of the kingdom of Iberia. The last site on tour is Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta. UNESCO recognizes Mtskheta as a World Heritage site due to its historical significance and several cultural monuments. It was the capital of the early Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. Svetitskhoveli is known as the burial site of Christ's robe and has been one of the principal Georgian Orthodox churches and is among the region's most venerated places of worship.

Embark on a full-day tour filled with history, culture, and breathtaking vistas from Tbilisi. Be driven to Mtskheta, Georgia's ancient capital, visit the sacred Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and discover the majestic Jvari Monastery with stunning views of mountains and valleys. Next, delve into Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, where the museum's exhibits offer unique insights into Georgia's Soviet-era history. Continue to Gori Fortress, an important 11th-century defensive structure reflecting the region's rich history. End your adventure in Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave city where you'll discover ancient dwellings and temples carved into the rock formations. Accompanied by a guide, immerse yourself in a world of unique architectural wonders and captivating historical events.

Meet your guide at the Château Mukhrani Wine Bar in the vibrant Gorgasli Square in central Tbilisi. Relax as you pass through the scenic countryside on the bus ride to Mtskheta. Upon arrival, get acquainted with the rich history of this city that dates back to 11,000 BC and see th UNESCO-listed Svetistkhoveli Church. Stop at the 5th-century Jvari Monastery where Saint Nino is said to have converted King Mirian III of Iberia to Christianity. Take in the tranquility of the hilltop setting of this domed church that almost looks like it is growing from the hill. Continue to the city of Gori, the city where the infamous Soviet leader Joseph Stalin was born. Have the chance to purchase a ticket to the Stalin Museum, which stores important moments from his life. Head to the cave city Uplistsikhe which is one of the oldest urban settlements in Georgia. See what life was like in pre-Christian Georgia on the banks of the Kura River. Step back in time as you explore these ruins with the help of your guide. Return to your meeting point in Tbilisi.

Explore the key historical sites of central Georgia, focusing on three different eras: the pagan period, the Christian period, and the Soviet period. Join your guide and a small group to witness the history of Georgia unfold on this full-day tour from Tbilisi.   After pickup from your hotel, your first stop will be the cave town of Uplistsikhe. Its caves and tunnels create a marvelous structure of natural architecture which still holds remnants of its ancient pagan culture.   Then, visit the nearby town of Gori and see the pompous Soviet Museum dedicated to Joseph Stalin, who was born here. After Gori, you’ll drive 1 hour to Mtskheta, the old capital of Georgia, where the country’s conversion to Christianity started in the 4th century. See the Svetiskhoveli cathedral and the monastery of Jvari, built on a high hill above the town.   Finally, see the Georgian Stonehenge, an impressive monument of Georgian history off the beaten path. Return to Tbilisi for drop off at your hotel.

Join us for an unforgettable journey into Georgia's industrial past with our one-day Urbex tour to Chiatura and the Katskhi Pillar from Tbilisi. Your adventure begins in the morning when your driver and guide meet you at your hotel or apartments in Tbilisi. First, we will visit the awe-inspiring Katskhi Pillar, a breathtaking 40-meter (130 ft) natural limestone monolith that towers over the Karshuna River gorge. At the top of the pillar, you will find a reconstructed 8th-century church and a small monastery where the only inhabitant is a monk named Maxime. He has lived in solitude and silence here for over 25 years, making this an extraordinary spiritual destination. Next, we will journey to Chiatura, an industrial town founded in the late 1800s, which played a vital role in Georgia's mining industry. The town offers a glimpse into a bygone era with its unique and Soviet-era cable car system still in use by locals. This transport system has over a dozen operating ropeway lines for passengers and two cargo lines for transporting manganese. The total length of the cableway exceeds 6,000 meters. As we explore the town, you will discover fascinating examples of brutalist architecture and hidden gems of the Soviet past. Chiatura is situated between steep valleys and deep gorges, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors interested in urban exploration and industrial heritage. At the end of the day, we will drive you back to Tbilisi and drop you off at your hotel or residence. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Georgian industrial heritage with our urbex tour to Chiatura and the Katskhi Pillar. Book now and explore this off-the-beaten-path destination with us!

Embark on a journey to the origins of Georgian history on a guided tour from Tbilisi. Starting point of your tour is Mtskheta - The first capital city of Georgia and religious center. Explore the history of Mtskheta and see the main attractions of the city: The cathedral of Svetitskhoveli where the tunic of Christ is kept and the Monastery of Jvari ( from Jvari you will be amazed by picturesque views of confluence formed by Mtkvari and Aragvi). Next destination is The house-museum of Stalin which is located in Gori. Visit the house where the leader of the Soviet Union was born and lived. Seeing his personal belongings and the armored railway carriage of his will be an exciting experience. Final destination is ancient city of caves- Uplistsikhe. See the remains of ancient temples, houses, streets, squares and in so doing feel how people lived their lives in Uplistsikhe.

We leave Kutaisi at 07:00. Our first destination is the Jvari Monastery, offering stunning views of Mtskheta and the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Next, we head to Mtskheta, where we'll explore the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Our journey continues to Uplistsikhe, known as the city of caves, dating back to the first millennium BC and featuring hand-carved caves. Following a lunch break at a local restaurant, we proceed to Gori to visit the Joseph Stalin House-Museum. We'll then pay homage to Georgian war heroes at the memorial before concluding our tour at Gori Fortress. Finally, we return to Kutaisi, marking the end of our memorable excursion.

Discover the ancient wonders of Uplistsikhe on a guided tour from Tbilisi. Step back in time and explore the breathtaking cave city carved into the rock cliffs of Georgia. Embark on a journey through history as you wander through the labyrinthine tunnels, marvel at ancient temples, and soak in the stunning panoramic views. Let your guide be your guide to this mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore one of the most mysterious regions of Georgia – Kartli and hear a lot about the country’s history. First, visit memorable Uplistsikhe cave-town and dive into the antique life of Georgia. Then, find out more interesting facts in Gori, the hometown of the most famous Georgian, Stalin, and see the unique old capital of Georgia – Mtskheta, where you visit two UNESCO heritage sites Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Your first stop is Uplistsikhe, an antique rock-hewn town in eastern Georgia. It contains multiple structures dating from the Early Iron Age to the Late Middle Ages. It is notable for the unique mixture of various rock-cut cultures from Anatolia and Iran’s pagan and Christian architecture coexistence. After exploring Uplistsikhe, have a chance to have lunch in the region and try delicious local food. After lunch, have two options, have free time and explore Gori, the hometown of Stalin, or visit Stalin Museum, which is a museum dedicated to the life of Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union, who was born in Gori. The Museum retains its Soviet-era characteristics, Stalin’s Original house, and Stalin’s railway carriage. The next stop is Jvari Monastery. The name of this monastery is translated as the “Monastery of the Cross.” Jvari Monastery is the 6th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery near Mtskheta. Along with other historic structures of Mtskheta, it is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Jvari Monastery stands on the rocky mountain top at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, overlooking the town of Mtskheta, which was formerly the capital of the kingdom of Iberia. The last site on tour is Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta. UNESCO recognizes Mtskheta as a World Heritage site due to its historical significance and several cultural monuments. It was the capital of the early Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. Svetitskhoveli is known as the burial site of Christ’s robe and has been one of the principal Georgian Orthodox churches and is among the region’s most venerated places of worship.

Start the tour at Jvari Monastery, an ancient temple dating back to the 6th century near the ancient capital Mtskheta. Located high atop a mountain, soak in picturesque views of the surrounding area at the intersection of the Aragvi and Kura rivers. Next, visit the enormous cave city of Uplistsikhe or the "Fortress of God". Immerse yourself in the history of this ancient 3000-year-old city carved into a rock, and marvel at the uniqueness of the structure. See the 150 caves that have survived to this day, including a cave tunnel, ancient sun temple, royal cave of King Tamara, winery, 6th-century church, Bibliotheca, and ancient pharmacy, with some structures dating back to the Iron Age. Finally, arrive in Gori, the hometown of the famous Georgian leader of the Soviet Union, Joseph Stalin. Visit the Stalin Museum, dedicated to the life of Joseph Stalin, and see some Soviet-era characteristics that still remain. Learn about the life of Stalin, and see his office and personal items including his pipe, cigars, telephone, and even the house where he was born.

Georgia boasts a captivating tapestry of historical landmarks, among which Gori and Uplistsikhe stand out prominently. The Stalin Museum, inaugurated in 1937 during Stalin's lifetime, presents itself as a grand edifice adorned with a socialist-style portico and columns. Within its walls, exhibitions unfold the narrative of Stalin's life, political trajectory, his pivotal role in Soviet history, and various facets of his governance. The museum's collection includes photographs, personal effects, documents, and other artifacts intimately linked to Stalin. Uplistsikhe, an archaeological complex in close proximity to Gori, unfolds as an ancient city that served as a sacred, political, and cultural hub during the Georgian Kingdom. Founded in the 6th century B.C.E, Uplistsikhe reached its zenith in the 9th-10th centuries. The archaeological site reveals diverse structures such as churches, palaces, baths, an amphitheater, and an intricate water supply system. Its uniqueness lies in its architecture and the picturesque landscapes that surround it. Mtskheta, Jvari, and Svetitskhoveli hold profound historical and religious significance for the Georgian people. These sites symbolize national identity and serve as splendid examples of Georgia's architectural heritage. Exploring these locations offers a deep dive into Georgia's rich history and culture, accompanied by breathtaking views and an aura of sanctity. Reason to Embark on this Journey: Embarking on this route promises a captivating odyssey through Georgia's past and present. From delving into the intricate chapters of Stalin's legacy to marveling at the ancient allure of Uplistsikhe and embracing the spiritual resonance of Mtskheta, Jvari, and Svetitskhoveli, each stop enriches the traveler with a profound connection to Georgia's cultural tapestry. This route is a pilgrimage through time, where history, architecture, and spirituality converge, offering an unforgettable exploration of Georgia's heritage.