International

Discover Georgia: A Journey Through History, Mountains, and Delightful Cuisine

Arihant Travel Team
September 10, 2024
16 min read

Explore Georgia - ancient churches, stunning mountains, world-famous wine regions, charming Tbilisi, and warm Georgian hospitality. Complete travel guide with visa info and costs.

Beautiful Georgia landscape with mountains
Georgia Travel Essentials
  • Visa: E-visa for Indians (USD 50)
  • Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL)
  • Language: Georgian (English in tourist areas)
  • Best Time: April-October
  • Budget: USD 30-50 per day
  • Flight: 3-4 hours from Dubai/UAE
  • Duration: 5-7 days recommended
  • Highlight: Wine, mountains & history!

Introduction: Your Georgian Adventure Awaits

If you're living in the UAE and longing for an adventure beyond the city's glimmering skyline and desert sands, Georgia awaits with open arms — a stunning mix of ancient history, breathtaking mountains, mouth-watering food, and warm hospitality. Just a short 3-4 hour flight from Dubai or Abu Dhabi, Georgia offers a refreshing escape to the "Gem of the Caucasus," where Europe and Asia meet in vibrant harmony.

In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through the best historical sites, majestic mountain landscapes, delicious local cuisine, and give you must-know tips that will make your trip to Georgia unforgettable. Whether you're a culture buff, nature lover, or food explorer, Georgia has something special for every traveler.

Why Choose Georgia for Your Next Trip from the UAE?

Short Flight, Big Adventure

With a direct flight time around 3-4 hours, Georgia is easy to reach without the hassle of long travel.

Visa-Friendly

Many UAE residents enjoy visa-free entry to Georgia for up to one year (check latest requirements for your nationality).

Exceptional Value

Affordable accommodation, food, and activities compared to many European destinations.

Rich Culture

Steeped in history and tradition, Georgian culture is a captivating blend of East and West.

Walk Through Time: Essential Historical Sites

Tbilisi – The Heart of Georgia's History

Tbilisi, the vibrant capital founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali, is famous for its rich history and diverse culture. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this city captivates visitors with its charming Old Town, ancient Narikala Fortress, stunning Sameba Cathedral, and modern landmarks like the Bridge of Peace.

The city is renowned for its flavorful Georgian cuisine, world-famous wines, lively arts scene, and the famous sulfur baths that have been cherished for their healing properties since medieval times. Tbilisi promises a unique and unforgettable journey in the heart of the Caucasus.

Tbilisi Sulfur Baths
Sameba Cathedral
Must-Visit in Tbilisi:
  • Narikala Fortress - panoramic city views via cable car
  • Sameba Cathedral - iconic symbol of Georgian Orthodoxy
  • Old Town sulfur baths in Abanotubani district
  • Bridge of Peace - modern architectural marvel

Mtskheta – Georgia's Ancient Capital

Just 20 kilometers north of Tbilisi, Mtskheta is one of the oldest cities in Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dating back over 3,000 years, it served as a major political and spiritual center, particularly after Christianity was adopted as the state religion in the 4th century.

The city is famous for the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where it is believed the robe of Christ is buried, and the Jvari Monastery, perched on a hill offering breathtaking views of the river confluence.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
Jvari Monastery

The Majestic Mountains of Georgia

Georgia's mountain landscapes are world-renowned, offering breathtaking scenery from the Greater and Lesser Caucasus ranges. These mountains feature dramatic scenery — snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, deep gorges, and pristine forests.

Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)

Located about three hours north of Tbilisi along the spectacular Georgian Military Highway, Kazbegi is a mountain lover's paradise. The iconic Gergeti Trinity Church sits high on a hill facing Mount Kazbegi, offering postcard-perfect views.

Popular activities include hiking, horseback riding, and paragliding. Nearby gems include Truso Valley and Gveleti Waterfall, while traditional guesthouses welcome visitors with homemade food and warm stories.

Gergeti Trinity Church
Mount Kazbek

Svaneti: The Land of Stone Towers

Svaneti is a remote mountainous region in northwestern Georgia renowned for its distinctive medieval stone towers, built between the 9th and 12th centuries as defensive structures. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is inhabited by the Svan people, who have preserved their ancient language, customs, and traditions.

Trekking enthusiasts will love the trails, while cultural explorers can immerse themselves in Svan traditions and explore the enigmatic defense towers dating back centuries.

Svaneti Stone Towers
Ushguli Village

Gudauri

Known primarily as a ski resort, Gudauri is worth visiting year-round. Situated on the south-facing plateau of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range, it offers stunning panoramic views, various slopes suitable for all skill levels, and opportunities for off-piste adventures and summer paragliding.

Gudauri Ski Resort
Paragliding in Gudauri

A Feast for the Senses: Must-Try Georgian Food

No trip to Georgia is complete without savoring the rich flavors of its famous cuisine:

Khachapuri

Cheesy bread in many varieties — Adjaruli (boat-shaped with egg), Imeruli (round, cheese-stuffed), and more.

Khinkali

Georgian dumplings stuffed with juicy meat or mushrooms. Sip the broth inside and leave the dough "knot" uneaten!

Georgian Wine

Birthplace of wine (8,000+ years!). Visit Kakheti wine region for tastings in traditional qvevri wineries.

Churchkhela

Traditional sweet made by stringing nuts dipped in grape juice concentrate — perfect souvenir!

Khachapuri
Khinkali

Frequently Asked Questions

Indian citizens need an e-visa which costs USD 50 and takes 5-7 working days to process. Many UAE residents enjoy visa-free entry for up to one year depending on their nationality. Always check current requirements before traveling.

The best time to visit Georgia is from April to October. Spring (April-May) offers blooming landscapes, summer (June-August) is perfect for mountain activities, and autumn (September-October) features wine harvest season.

A budget of USD 30-50 per day is sufficient for accommodation, food, and activities in Georgia. It is more affordable than many European destinations while offering exceptional value.

Must-visit places include:
  • Tbilisi - Capital with sulfur baths and Old Town
  • Mtskheta - Ancient capital and UNESCO site
  • Kazbegi - Mountain paradise with Gergeti Trinity Church
  • Svaneti - Stone towers and Svan culture
  • Kakheti - Wine region with traditional wineries

Visa Information

Indian Citizens E-Visa
  • Type: E-visa online application
  • Cost: USD 50 (approx)
  • Processing: 5-7 working days
  • Validity: 30 days, single entry
  • Extension: Possible for up to 90 days

Plan Your Georgia Adventure

Customized Georgia tours with visa assistance, hotels, and transportation!

Book Georgia Tour
Travel Checklist
  • Apply for e-visa
  • Book flights early
  • Exchange to GEL currency
  • Download offline maps
  • Pack layers (mountains!)

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