Chiatura and Katskhi Pillar Tour
Soviet Marvels, Mystical Pillars & Ancient Monasteries! Discover Georgia’s industrial heritage, sacred landmarks, and stunning medieval architecture on this fascinating full-day excursion.
Duration: Approx. 10 hours
Depart from Tbilisi in the morning and journey to the Zemo Imereti region of western Georgia. This tour offers a unique combination of engineering wonders, natural landmarks, and centuries-old monasteries.
🏛 Tour Highlights
Chiatura & Soviet-Era Cable Cars
Begin your day in Chiatura, a town renowned for its manganese mines and historic cable cars. These Soviet-era aerial trams, though weathered and rusty, remain one of the most remarkable feats of industrial engineering, connecting the town’s residential areas with the mines. Experience a ride on the cable car while taking in the dramatic landscape of the surrounding valley.
Mghvimevi Monastery
Visit the 13th-century Mghvimevi Monastery, perched on a cliff overlooking the valley. This serene complex showcases classic Georgian ecclesiastical architecture and provides insight into the country’s religious heritage and monastic traditions.
Katskhi Pillar
Next, travel to the Katskhi Pillar, a natural limestone monolith rising over 40 meters in the village of Katskhi. This mystical site has been a center of worship for centuries, initially as a pagan sacred site, and later by Christian ascetics in the 4th century AD. The pillar’s small church atop the rock symbolizes solitude, devotion, and escape from worldly distractions. Climbing is prohibited, and currently, only one monk resides at the summit. Admire the pillar’s majestic presence from below while learning about its fascinating history.
Ubisa Monastery & Pottery Market
On the way back, stop at Ubisa Monastery to admire its extraordinary 14th-century frescoes, reflecting Georgia’s rich medieval art. Continue to the Pottery Market in Shrosha village, where you can browse and purchase traditional handmade crafts before returning to Tbilisi.
🌟 Why Choose This Tour?
- Ride one of the world’s most remarkable Soviet-era cable cars in Chiatura
- Explore the 13th-century Mghvimevi Monastery perched on dramatic cliffs
- Admire the mystical Katskhi Pillar, a site of ancient worship and Christian devotion
- Visit Ubisa Monastery and its preserved 14th-century frescoes
- Experience Georgian craftsmanship at the Pottery Market
- Ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and adventurous travelers
Payment Details
- 10% down payment required at the time of booking
- Remaining 90% payable after confirmation and before arrival (maximum 72 hours)
- Alternatively, the outstanding balance can be paid on the day of the excursion
- Free cancellation up to 48 hours before arrival