Georgia Travel Itinerary for Indian Travelers

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Georgia Travel Itinerary for Indian Travelers

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Overview

Georgia, a charming country in the Caucasus region, is an ideal destination for Indian travelers with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and delectable cuisine. This itinerary covers flights, transportation, must-see attractions, cultural experiences, and food recommendations for a seamless trip.

Day 1: Arrival in Tbilisi

  • Flight Details:
    • Fly from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru to Tbilisi International Airport. Airlines like Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, or Air Arabia offer one-stop connections via Doha, Istanbul, or Sharjah.
  • Transportation to City Center:
    • Take a taxi or pre-book a transfer to your hotel. Bolt (similar to Uber) is an affordable option.
  • Evening Exploration:
    • Stroll through Rustaveli Avenue, the city’s main artery lined with historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
    • Enjoy dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant like Tavaduri or Machakhela, where you can try Khinkali (dumplings) and Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread).

Day 2: Discover Tbilisi

  • Morning:
    • Explore Old Tbilisi:
      • Visit the Narikala Fortress via the cable car for panoramic views of the city.
      • Walk down to the Abanotubani district, known for its sulfur baths. Consider a relaxing soak in one of the private baths.
      • See the Metekhi Church and the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the quirky Chronicle of Georgia, a massive monument depicting Georgian history.
    • Stop by the Dry Bridge Market for unique souvenirs like Soviet memorabilia and handmade crafts.
  • Evening:
    • Take a sunset stroll along the Bridge of Peace and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the Shardeni Street area.

Day 3: Day Trip to Mtskheta

  • Transportation:
    • Take a shared taxi (marshrutka) or hire a private driver to the ancient capital of Mtskheta, just 30 minutes from Tbilisi.
  • Must-See Attractions:
    • Jvari Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers’ confluence.
    • Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: Known as the “Life-Giving Pillar,” this cathedral is an architectural marvel and spiritual center of Georgia.
  • Lunch:
    • Enjoy traditional Georgian food at a local restaurant in Mtskheta, such as Salobie.
  • Return to Tbilisi:
    • Spend the evening at leisure or explore local cafes like Coffeesta for some coffee and desserts.

Day 4: Kazbegi and the Georgian Military Highway

  • Morning Departure:
    • Take a private tour or marshrutka to Stepantsminda along the Georgian Military Highway, one of the most scenic routes in the region.
  • Stops Along the Way:
    • Ananuri Fortress: A picturesque fortress overlooking the Zhinvali Reservoir.
    • Gudauri Viewpoint: Admire the breathtaking panorama of the mountains.
  • In Kazbegi:
    • Visit the Gergeti Trinity Church, perched on a hill with a backdrop of Mount Kazbek.
    • Optional: Go for a short hike or take a jeep ride to reach the church.
  • Lunch:
    • Try hearty local dishes like Lobio (bean stew) at a mountain-view restaurant in Stepantsminda.
  • Return to Tbilisi:
    • Relax in your hotel or explore Tbilisi’s vibrant night scene.

Day 5: Explore Kakheti (Wine Region)

  • Transportation:
    • Hire a car or take a guided tour to Kakheti, the wine region of Georgia, located about 2 hours from Tbilisi.
  • Key Experiences:
    • Sighnaghi: The “City of Love,” with charming cobblestone streets and beautiful views of the Alazani Valley.
    • Bodbe Monastery: A serene spot with religious significance.
    • Wine tasting at local wineries like Kindzmarauli Corporation or Khareba Winery.
  • Lunch:
    • Enjoy a feast of local dishes like Mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers) paired with Georgian wine.
  • Return to Tbilisi:
    • Spend the evening relaxing or shopping for Georgian spices, wine, and souvenirs.

Day 6: Borjomi and Uplistsikhe

  • Morning:
    • Travel to Borjomi, famous for its mineral water springs. Stroll through Borjomi Central Park and try the healing waters.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town with tunnels, chambers, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Return to Tbilisi:
    • Enjoy your last evening in the capital. Treat yourself to modern Georgian fusion cuisine at a place like Funicular Restaurant Complex.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning:
    • Visit a local market like Deserter’s Bazaar for some last-minute shopping for spices, teas, or Georgian sweets.
  • Airport Transfer:
    • Pre-book a taxi or use Bolt for a hassle-free ride to Tbilisi International Airport.

Food Recommendations

  1. Vegetarian Options:
    • Badrijani Nigvzit: Eggplant rolls with walnut paste.
    • Lobiani: Bean-stuffed bread.
    • Pkhali: Vegetable pâtés made with walnuts and herbs.
  2. Non-Vegetarian Must-Try:
    • Shkmeruli: Chicken in garlic cream sauce.
    • Chakapuli: Lamb stew with tarragon and plums.

Tips for Indian Travelers

  1. Currency:
    • Georgian Lari (GEL) is the official currency. 1 GEL ≈ ~30 INR (check current rates).
      Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.
      For more on currency and money check out-

2. Language:
- Georgian is the official language, but many locals in cities speak English.
3. Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather.
4. Transportation:
- Bolt is affordable for city travel. Marshrutkas are cheap for intercity travel, but private tours are more comfortable.
5. Cultural Etiquette:
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Tipping (10-15%) is appreciated at restaurants.

This itinerary ensures an enriching and diverse experience, blending culture, history, adventure, and gastronomy in beautiful Georgia!