Mtskheta Excursion is probably one of my favorite package tours, as this includes the major attractions of Georgia, with two UNESCO World Heritage-listed monasteries plus cathedrals spanning the 6th to 11th centuries. You would be amazed at how wonderful and stunning these places are, especially their location and the history behind their magnificence.
About Mtskheta
Mtskheta is one of the oldest cities and was formerly the capital of Georgia. It is home to Historical Monuments consisting of the Jvari Monastery, the Svetitstkhoveli Cathedral and the Samtavro Monastery, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Mtskheta is approximately 20 km of north of Tbilisi. Since Mtskheta was the birthplace of Christianity in Georgia, Mtskheta was declared the “Holy City” by the Georgian Orthodox Church in 2014. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations and probably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Georgia.
Where I booked my Mtskheta Excursion
Although you can do DIY, in my case, I preferred to join a day tour since my trip here in Georgia is only short and also for convenience as well as to minimize my cost.
I joined a 1-day tour costing around 40 USD in G7 Euro Travel, highly recommended. We are three on this tour, by the way. I believed the minimum number to have a free tour guide was 4 to 5 people in a group.
Tour Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
For Tour Package Discount in G7 Euro Travel and Tour, You can message their Facebook page: Kabayans and Pinoys in Tbilisi, Georgia or their whatsapp number: +995579128007. Use my code when booking so you can avail of a 3% to 20% discount depending on the length of stay or number of people booking at the same time.
Code: “LAN Wandered with G7 Kabayans in Georgia&Armenia
3 Steps to avail discount:
1. Mention the code above when booking.
2. Screenshot this blog where you read my article or my video in youtube.
3. Simply like their Facebook Page: Kabayans and Pinoys in Tbilisi, Georgia
Tours included:
- Chronicles of Georgia
- Bear Sanctuary
- Sabaduri Forest
- Jvari Monastery
- Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
What to bring
- Camera/Phone
- Selfie stick with stand if you are a solo traveler
- Water and light snack
Chronicles of Georgia
The Chronicles of Georgia are a gigantic bronze, copper and stone sculpture built on a hill in the northern part of Tbilisi with an overlooking view of the Tbilisi Sea, the largest reservoir and main water source in Georgia. It was designed in 1981 by Georgian artist & sculptor Zurab Tsereteli and started construction in 1985, but is still partially incomplete. Our group came here early during our tour and was amazed by the structure design. Reaching there requires minor walking to the top, below you can see the historical background written in the stone.
Bear Sanctuary
The sanctuary is located in a picturesque place near the Sabaduri Forest. Bears of different ages undergo rehabilitation at the facility so they can later return to the wild.
Sabaduri Forest
Sabaduri is one of the most beautiful forests classified as an endangered area within the boundaries of Tbilisi National Park, the oldest national park in Georgia, Mtskheta-Mtianeti region.
You can never go wrong in visiting this forest, whether Autum/fall or winter season. During the autumn season, this forest is colorful with yellow, orange, and red leaves, while winter will give you a fairytail vibe.
Jvari Monastery in Mtskheta
One of the UNESCO World Heritage Site you shouldn’t miss visiting in Georgia is Jvari Monastery situated in Mtskheta. The early medieval age church (VI-VII centuries) was built on the top of the hill, where St. Nino erected a wooden cross in the 4th century. The church overlooks the convergence of two rivers that amazes its visitors with its stunning landscape. You will surely enjoy this place as you would see the overlooking view of the river and the town of Mtskheta surrounded by stunning mountains.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta
Another masterpiece and a must-visit in the historic town of Mtskheta is Svetitskhoveli Cathedral known as the Cathedral of the Living Pillar, an Orthodox Christian cathedral recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This cathedral is currently the second-largest church building in Georgia, after the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi.
Lunch, Georgian Cuisine
After a fulfilling day of exploring the Mtskheta region, it’s time to eat delicious Georgian cuisine. We decided to take our lunch after completing all the tours included in the package. You should try Khinkali, a dumpling famous in Georgian cuisine, made of twisted knobs of dough stuffed with meat and spices.
So, have you been to Mtskheta Georgia? Please share your thoughts, I would love to know your experience.
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