Telavi Tour from Tbilisi

The Telavi route

Telavi is the capital of Kakheti — Georgia's main wine-producing region. The drive from Tbilisi follows the Gomboro Pass (1620 m) before descending into the wide Alazani Valley, with the Greater Caucasus Range visible across the plain. The journey takes about 2 hours each way.

Unlike the Sighnaghi route, this tour focuses on the northern part of Kakheti: ancient monasteries, a medieval fortress with a record-breaking tree, and a small family winery where wine is still fermented in buried clay vessels (kvevri) by the traditional Kakhetian method.

Key stops

Alaverdi Cathedral

Built in the 11th century, Alaverdi is the second-tallest historic church in Georgia at 50 metres — surpassed only by Tsminda Sameba in Tbilisi. The cathedral stands alone in the open plain, giving it a striking, almost austere presence. Inside: medieval frescoes, an ancient wine cellar (the monks still make wine), and a museum of religious artefacts.

Batsonisikhe Fortress and the Giant Plane Tree

A 17th-century fortified complex that houses a small history museum (entry ₾5). The highlight is a living Oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis) estimated to be 900 years old. Its trunk measures 12.4 metres in circumference — one of the largest trees in Georgia. The tree was already ancient when the fortress was built around it.

Family Winery — Kvevri Tasting

We visit a small family-run winery that produces wine using the traditional Kakhetian method: grapes fermented with skins and seeds in buried clay vessels (kvevri) for 6 months. This method is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The tasting includes 3–4 wines, including the local Kisi variety — an amber wine almost unknown outside Kakheti.

Ikalto Monastery

Founded in the 6th century by one of the Thirteen Syrian Fathers who brought monasticism to Georgia. Ikalto is also famous for the Ikalto Academy — one of the earliest universities in the Caucasus, where the poet Shota Rustaveli is believed to have studied in the 12th century. The ruins of the academy's lecture halls are preserved on-site.

Route timeline

• 08:30 — Departure from Tbilisi
• ~09:30 — Gomboro Pass (1620 m) — scenic stop
• ~10:30 — Alaverdi Cathedral (1 hour)
• ~12:00 — Batsonisikhe Fortress and 900-year plane tree (45 min)
• ~13:00 — Lunch in Telavi (not included, ~₾30)
• ~14:30 — Family winery — kvevri tasting (1 hour)
• ~16:00 — Ikalto Monastery (45 min)
• ~19:30 — Return to Tbilisi

What is included

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Telavi and Kakheti (Sighnaghi) tours?

The Kakheti tour focuses on Sighnaghi (the romantic walled town), Bodbe Monastery, and Chavchavadze Museum. The Telavi tour covers the northern Alazani Valley: Alaverdi Cathedral, Batsonisikhe, Ikalto Monastery, and a family wine cellar. Both tours last about 10–11 hours. Choose Kakheti for Sighnaghi's architecture and panoramic views; choose Telavi for a deeper dive into medieval monasteries and traditional winemaking.

Is wine tasting included in the price?

Yes. A basic tasting of 3–4 wines at the family winery is included in the tour price. Purchasing wine bottles is optional and at your own expense. Lunch at a local restaurant is not included; we stop at a good local place where an average meal costs ₾25–40.

What is the 900-year plane tree at Batsonisikhe?

Inside the Batsonisikhe fortress there is an Oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis) estimated to be 900 years old. Its trunk circumference is 12.4 metres — one of the largest trees in Georgia. Entry to the fortress is ₾5.

What should I wear to the monasteries?

Shoulders and knees must be covered at all Orthodox monasteries. Shawls and wraps are available at the entrance. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended — the paths at Ikalto are uneven.