Kartli Travel Guide (Georgia (country)/Caucasus/Asia)

Introduction to Kartli

Kartli is a fascinating region located in Georgia, a country nestled in the heart of the Caucasus, a bridge between Europe and Asia. The region boasts a rich history and culture, breathtaking natural scenery, and warm hospitality. From ancient temples, museums, and historical sites to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone in Kartli. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll introduce you to the top places to visit, activities to do, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and practical information to help you plan your trip to Kartli.

List of Places to Visit in Kartli

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re a history buff or interested in Georgian culture, Kartli has plenty to offer:

Jvari Monastery: This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 6th century and offers stunning views of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers.
Uplistsikhe: This ancient cave town was an important political and cultural center in the region and features fascinating rock-cut structures, including a theater, temples, and a pharmacy.
Ananuri Castle: This 17th-century fortress is situated on the Aragvi River and features two churches, a watchtower, and a beautiful arch bridge.
Stalin Museum: Located in the town of Gori, this museum is dedicated to the life and times of Joseph Stalin, who was born nearby.

Natural Attractions of Kartli: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kartli’s natural beauty is bound to leave you breathless:

Kazbegi National Park: This national park is home to Mount Kazbek, one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park: This protected area is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, featuring deep gorges, mountain peaks, and lush forests.
Gudauri Ski Resort: This ski resort is located at an altitude of 2,196 meters and offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in winter.
Ksani Gorge: This scenic gorge is located in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus and features beautiful natural rock formations, waterfalls, and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kartli

Kartli is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its picturesque landscapes and challenging trails:

The Georgian Military Road: This historic route connects Tbilisi to Vladikavkaz, Russia, passing through stunning mountain scenery and offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
Tbilisi Waterfall Trail: This trail takes you through the beautiful Tbilisi National Park and features several waterfalls and streams.
Khada Gorge Trail: This challenging trail is ideal for experienced hikers and features stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mtskheta-Jvari Trail: This easy trail connects the ancient city of Mtskheta with the Jvari Monastery and takes you through beautiful vineyards and villages.

Best Things to Do in Kartli: Activities and Tours

Kartli offers a wealth of activities and tours for all interests:

Wine Tasting: Kartli is known for its delicious wines, and a wine tasting tour is a must-do for wine lovers.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful countryside and enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and rivers.
Horseback Riding: There are several horse-riding tours available in Kartli, from leisurely rides through scenic countryside to more challenging equestrian adventures.
Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding over the stunning mountains and valleys of Kartli.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kartli

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your stay in Kartli:

Day 1: Explore Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, including the old town, Narikala Fortress, and sulfur baths.
Day 2: Visit the Jvari Monastery, Ananuri Castle, and Gudauri Ski Resort.
Day 3: Hike the Georgian Military Road and visit Kazbegi National Park.
Day 4: Visit Uplistsikhe, Stalin Museum, and the town of Gori.
Day 5: Take a guided tour of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park and enjoy a wine tasting session in Kvareli.
Day 6: Go horseback riding in the Khada Gorge and visit the Mtskheta-Jvari Trail.
Day 7: Relax in Kartli’s natural hot springs and enjoy a traditional Georgian banquet.

Food and Drink Scene of Kartli

Georgian cuisine is famous for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and unique traditions. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Kartli:

Must-Try Dishes

Khinkali: These savory dumplings are typically filled with meat, mushrooms, or cheese and are a beloved Georgian dish.
Khachapuri: This cheese-filled bread is a staple of Georgian cuisine and comes in many different varieties.
Lobio: This hearty bean stew is a staple of Georgian cuisine and is usually served with fresh bread.
Mtsvadi: This grilled meat skewer is a popular street food in Georgia and is usually made with pork or lamb.

Local Beverages

Georgian Wine: Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world and is known for its unique natural winemaking methods and delicious wines, such as Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, and Kakhetian.
Chacha: This potent grape brandy is a popular Georgian spirit and is usually served as a digestif.
Tarragon Lemonade: This refreshing drink is made with tarragon syrup, lemon, and sparkling water and is a popular summertime beverage in Georgia.

Where to Stay in Kartli: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kartli has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes:

Shovi Hotel: This hotel is located in the picturesque Shovi Valley and offers stunning views, natural hot springs, and comfortable guest rooms.
Rooms Hotel Kazbegi: This chic, modern hotel is located in the heart of Kazbegi and features stunning mountain views, an outdoor pool, and excellent dining options.
Juta Guesthouse: This cozy guesthouse is situated in the remote Juta Valley and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

What to Buy in Kartli: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From local handicrafts to traditional Georgian treats, Kartli offers plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

Sulguni Cheese: This delicious, salty cheese is a staple of Georgian cuisine and is a popular souvenir choice.
Traditional Handwoven Textiles: Kartli is home to many talented textile weavers who create beautiful handwoven carpets, blankets, and other textiles.
Georgian Crafts: Local artisans create many beautiful crafts, including pottery, woodwork, and jewelry, that make excellent souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Kartli

Georgians are known for their warm and hospitable nature, and visitors to Kartli are sure to experience this firsthand. Here are some tips to help you navigate local customs and culture:

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
When dining with a Georgian family, expect to be served large portions of food and drink.
Toasting is a big part of Georgian culture, and it is customary to make multiple toasts throughout a meal.

Best Time to Visit Kartli

The best time to visit Kartli depends on your interests and preferences:

Spring (April-June): This is the best time to visit if you want to see the countryside in bloom and enjoy mild temperatures.
Summer (July-August): This is peak tourist season in Georgia, with warm weather and lots of festivals and outdoor events.
Fall (September-November): This is the best time to visit if you want to see the changing colors of the leaves and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Winter (December-March): This is the best time to visit if you enjoy skiing or want to experience traditional Georgian winter festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kartli

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Kartli:

Do:

Respect local traditions and customs.
Try the local cuisine, especially the wine and cheese.
Learn a few words of Georgian to interact with locals.
Bargain at the bazaars and markets.

Don’t:

Wear revealing clothing in public.
Smoke in public places.
Take photographs of people without their permission.
Litter or leave trash in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Kartli is generally a safe and healthy destination, but visitors should still take some precautions:

Safety in Kartli

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid traveling alone at night.
Be cautious when using public transportation and watch out for pickpockets.
Consult with local authorities before venturing into remote areas or hiking trails.

Health in Kartli

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Georgia.
Drink bottled water, especially in remote areas.
Wear sunscreen and insect repellent when spending time outdoors.

Getting to Kartli: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kartli is easily accessible from Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, and there are several transportation options available:

Airports Near Kartli

Tbilisi International Airport: This is the nearest major airport, located about 2 hours’ drive from Kartli.

Bus Stations Near Kartli

Didube Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Tbilisi, with frequent buses to all major cities in Georgia.
Mtskheta Bus Station: This is a smaller bus station located in Mtskheta, with buses to nearby towns and villages.

Other Options

Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Tbilisi and other major cities, and it’s usually possible to negotiate a price with the driver.
Car Rentals: Renting a car is a great way to explore Kartli at your own pace, but be aware that the roads can be narrow and winding in some areas.

How to Get Around in Kartli

There are several ways to get around Kartli:

Public Transportation: Buses and minibusses are the most common mode of public transportation in Kartli, with regular routes to all major towns and villages.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Kartli, but be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in.
Car Rentals: Renting a car is a great way to explore Kartli at your own pace, but be aware that the roads can be narrow and winding in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Kartli: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kartli is centrally located in Georgia, making it an ideal starting point for exploring other regions:

Kakheti: This region is known for its wineries, traditional villages, and beautiful countryside.
Samegrelo: This region is famous for its delicious cuisine, lush forests, and stunning coastline.
Adjara: This region is home to the Black Sea coastline, charming seaside towns, and beautiful mountain scenery.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventures, or simply unwinding in natural hot springs, Kartli has something to offer. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Kartli, Georgia, and make the most of your stay. Enjoy your travels!

Kartli Image Gallery

Mtskheta

Ananuri's fortress

Kazbegi National Park

Mtskheta