Day Trip to Mtskheta Gori and Uplistsikhe
Description
A diverse range well knows Kartli region of cultural sites, including several historical, cultural, and landscapes. Since the first half of the III millennium BC, the area dates from classical to medieval, including and altered several times. The region was the home of gods and their earthly embodiment – priests, chiefs, and kings. Every layer of the ground keeps a memory of epochs. The region was standing over the crossroads of cultures. The significance of this arterial road was connecting east and west. It’ rocky road still preserves a clear trace of wheeled transport moving here over centuries. The region was, from time to time, ruled by Mithraism or Zoroastrianism. Sovereign priests performed pagan rituals here. On this altar, they offered sacrifice, glorified female divinity, lighted holly fire. To be continued during the tour.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Traveler's Meeting Point - is a free space where you can meet new exciting people, play some board games, listen to good music or enjoy a glass of wine.
11:00 Arrive at Uplistsikhe. Uplistsikhe is an antique rock-hewn town in eastern Georgia. It was built on a left bank of the Mtkvari River, contains multiple structures dating from the Early Iron Age to the Late Middle Ages, and is notable for the unique mixture of various rock-cut cultures from Anatolia and Iran coexistence of pagan and Christian architecture.
13:00 Arrive at a lunch place. Unique possibility to feel as native. Visit a local restaurant and enjoy traditional, delicious food.
14:45 Arrive at Stalin Museum. Stalin Museum 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. In Case Of Free Time in Gori (Optional) Discover the city Gori, populated since the early Bronze Age. According to medieval Georgian annals, King David IV founded Gori. The fortress of Gori (Goris Tsikhe) appears to have been in use already in the 7th century, and archaeological evidence indicates an urban community in Classical Antiquity. In the 2008 Russo-Georgian war, the town came under aerial attack by the Russian air force from the outset of the conflict.
16:35 Arrive at 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.
17:25 Arrive at Svetitskhoveli In Mtskheta. Mtskheta, one of the oldest cities in Georgia, was founded by the ancient Meschian tribes in the 5th century. UNESCO recognizes it 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. However, Mtskheta remained to serve as the coronation and burial place for most kings of Georgia until the 19th century. Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (literally the Cathedral of the Living Pillar) is currently the second-largest church in Georgia (after the Holy Trinity cathedral). Known as the burial site of Christ's robe, Svetitskhoveli has been one of the principal Georgian Orthodox churches and is among the most venerated places of worship in the region. 19:00-19:30 Traveler's Meeting Point ( 50 meters from Avlabari metro station )
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The minimum age of a traveler is 5.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions. Therefore, please dress according to the weather.
- Dress code for a church - It's not allowed for anyone to enter a church in shorts, and women need to cover their heads.
Reviews(2,014)
I really enjoy this trip. Salome is clearly a history buff; I learnt a lot from her. A patriotic Sakartvelorian 😉, her talks were both informative and interesting. I particularly enjoyed the cave city, Uplistsikhe, and Svetitskhoveli cathedral. When I needed a break, we were given free time. I tried pomegranate ice cream and the local wine. I was worried that the day would be too long, but we finished slightly earlier, and we still had ample time to explore. Our driver Gochi was a perfect gentleman. The driving in Georgia is pretty wild, but he navigates the roads like a pro.
Great trip with Salome, would recommend it to anyone 👍
We had an amazing time during this tour, specifically because the tour incorporated so many different aspects of Georgian history/culture, we really got a wide insight into this amazing country. From the ancient culture at Uplistsikhe, to the Stalin museum and finally the two absolutely gorgeous monasteries at Mtskheta, we were able to absorb so much. Our guide, Nika, had incredible English and was extremely knowledgeable about every subject he was taking to us about, so his presence really enriched our experience. We can't wait to continue exploring Georgia!
We had an amazing time on the trip to Uplistsikhe, Gori and Mtskheta with our guide Nika! We had just enough time to explore the places by ourselves after Nika's thoughtful explanation. Each place felt unique and our day was filled with history and culture background of Georgia. We appreciated that Nika was our guide in the Stalin Museum as well, so it didnt't feel rushed going through the periods of his life - from birth to death. Would highly recommend to anyone interested in these places!
It was very successful, the guide explained extensively in place, wherever we visited he first explained, then also gave us free time, I felt really good, the guy had answers to everything, and said it was politically sensitive not going into it (as happened to me on other trips)
Thank you for your wonderful review! 😊 We're delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience on the tour. It's great to know that the guide's detailed explanations, thoughtful pacing, and willingness to answer all of your questions helped make the experience both informative and enjoyable. We always strive to give our guests enough time to fully appreciate each location while providing meaningful insights into the places they visit. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we're thrilled that you felt comfortable and engaged throughout the day. We hope to welcome you back to Georgia for another memorable adventure soon! 🇬🇪❤️
NIKA Forteford guided me carefully in fluent English, so it was a safe and wonderful experience. This tour is recommended.
Thank you for your wonderful review! 😊 We're delighted to hear that Nika's guidance, clear English, and attentive approach helped make your experience both safe and enjoyable. It's great to know that you felt well taken care of throughout the tour. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we truly appreciate your kind words. We hope to welcome you back to Georgia for another unforgettable adventure soon! 🇬🇪❤️
Nika is a good guide. 👍 He knows a lot about the sites we went to and cares us. The trip is awesome and I learn a lot about the Georgian culture.
Thank you for your wonderful review! 😊 We're delighted to hear that you had such a great experience with Nika. His knowledge of Georgia's history and landmarks, along with his care for guests, are qualities we truly value. We're especially happy that you enjoyed the trip and learned more about Georgian culture along the way. Thank you for your kind words, and we hope to welcome you back to Georgia for another unforgettable adventure soon! 🇬🇪❤️
All good with an excellent guild who had excellent knowledge, Ana was good at sharing her love for Georgia
Thank you for your wonderful review! 😊 We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the tour and had such a positive experience with Ana. Her knowledge, enthusiasm, and genuine love for Georgia are what make her such a special guide, and we're glad she was able to share that passion with you. Thank you for your kind words, and we hope to welcome you back to Georgia for another memorable adventure soon! 🇬🇪❤️
It was a very balanced trip with great views, beautiful churches, delicious food and interesting stories. Our guide Gabriel made this trip very comfortable and amusing, answering every question we had and helping with some issues.
Thank you for your wonderful review! 😊 We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the perfect mix of stunning views, beautiful churches, delicious food, and fascinating stories throughout the trip. Gabriel will be thrilled to know that his knowledge, helpfulness, and sense of humor made your experience both comfortable and enjoyable. We're especially happy that he was able to answer all your questions and assist whenever needed. Thank you for your kind words, and we hope to welcome you back to Georgia for another unforgettable adventure soon! 🇬🇪❤️
It was a very interesting trip, lots of history. The guide Gabriel was clear and understandable and told us everything we needed to know about each site we visited. Every question was answered and the group was disciplined in terms of time, which made the whole trip easier.
Thank you for your wonderful review! 😊 We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the trip and the rich history of the places you visited. Gabriel will be very happy to know that his explanations were clear, informative, and helped bring each location to life. We're also glad that all your questions were answered and that the group stayed well-organized throughout the day, making the experience even more enjoyable. Thank you for your kind words, and we hope to welcome you back to Georgia for another memorable adventure soon! 🇬🇪❤️
