David Gareja Monastery
Updated: November 3, 2026
Kakheti · 60–70 km from Tbilisi
David Gareja is a complex of cave monasteries on the slopes of Mount Gareja, in the reddish semi-desert of southeastern Georgia, right on the border with Azerbaijan.
The first monastery was founded in the 6th century by the monk David — one of the thirteen Assyrian Fathers who brought monasticism to Georgia. Its heyday came in the late 11th to early 13th centuries.
The rock-cut cells and churches preserve frescoes considered among the finest in medieval Georgia. The lower monastery, the Lavra, is still active.
- Wheresoutheastern Kakheti, 60–70 km from Tbilisi
- Foundedin the 6th century by the monk David
- Entryfree to the Lavra
- Getting thereabout 1.5–2 hours, the last stretch is a dirt road
- How long2–3 hours
Tours that visit David Gareja
History of David Gareja
The monk David settled here in the 6th century, and his disciples founded several more monasteries nearby. In the 9th century St. Hilarion expanded the monasteries, and in the late 11th to early 13th centuries Gareja became one of the main centers of Georgian culture and learning.
The complex survived the Mongol invasion of 1265, but in 1615 the Persian troops of Shah Abbas killed the monks and destroyed the manuscripts. In 1690 the monastery was restored. In Soviet times there was a military training ground nearby, and the frescoes were damaged by the exercises.
What to see
- Lavra — the lower, active monastery with a rock-cut church and the grave of St. David.
- Udabno — caves on the crest of the ridge with frescoes from the 9th–13th centuries. The ridge runs along the border with Azerbaijan, and access is sometimes restricted — check before your trip.
- Landscape — reddish hills and steppe, covered in poppies in spring; a completely different Georgia.
Best time to visit
The best season is April–June and September–October. In spring the semi-desert is covered with poppies, irises and tulips. In July–August it can reach +40 °C. In winter the monastery is open, but the dirt road can be impassable after rain.
How to get there
- By car: 1.5–2 hours from Tbilisi via Sagarejo; the last few kilometers are a dirt road, which can be tough for a regular car after rain.
- Public transport doesn't go to the monastery — you need a car, a taxi or a tour.
- On a tour — more details in our article about David Gareja.
Tips and safety
- Bring at least 2 liters of water per person — there are no shops or cafés nearby.
- You need covered clothing and comfortable shoes; in summer, a hat and sunscreen.
- The trail up the Udabno ridge is marked; the steep section takes about 10 minutes.
David Gareja photos
Our drone video and photos from Wikimedia Commons
What's near David Gareja
Udabno Monasteryon the ridge above the Lavra, frescoes from the 9th–13th centuries
David Gareja on the map
David Gareja FAQ
How far is David Gareja from Tbilisi?
60–70 km to the southeast, 1.5–2 hours by car; the last stretch is a dirt road.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entry to the Lavra monastery is free.
Can I climb up to Udabno?
Udabno sits on a ridge along the border with Azerbaijan, and access is sometimes restricted. Check before your trip — the guide will tell you whether the trail is open.
Is there public transport there?
No. You need a car, a round-trip taxi or a tour.
When is the best time to go?
April–May, when the steppe is in bloom, and September–October. In summer it's very hot and there's no shade.
Are there tours to David Gareja from Tbilisi?
Yes — a David Gareja tour. It's listed above on this page.
Best things to do in Georgia
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