Upper Gelati Church: A Testament to Georgia's Golden Age
Discover a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Georgia's Golden Age, with stunning frescoes, serene ambiance, and panoramic views near Kutaisi.
Nestled in the hills near Kutaisi, the Upper Gelati Church of Icon of Most Holy Mother of God of Iveria and Monastery is a stunning example of Georgian religious architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded in 1106 by King David IV, it served as a vital cultural and educational hub during Georgia's Golden Age.
A brief summary to Upper Gelati Church of Icon of Most Holy Mother of God of Iveria and Monastery
- 7QVC+VHW, გელათი, GE
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting; covering shoulders and knees is recommended, and women should bring a headscarf.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photography.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Motsameta Monastery for a memorable half-day excursion.
- Check the marshrutka (minibus) schedule in advance, as they may not run frequently.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kutaisi, take marshrutka (minibus) number 33 towards Gelati Monastery. These depart from a stop behind the Drama Theatre. The fare is approximately 3 GEL, payable in cash to the driver. The journey takes around 20 minutes. From the Gelati Monastery entrance, a 15-minute walk uphill is required to reach the Upper Gelati Church.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kutaisi. A taxi ride to Gelati Monastery typically costs between $10-$13 (approximately 27-35 GEL) and takes about 12 minutes. You can use ride-hailing apps like Bolt for potentially better prices, with Bolt Send costing around 7.60 GEL. From the taxi drop-off point, there is a 15-minute walk uphill to reach the Upper Gelati Church.
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Walking
It is possible to walk from Kutaisi to Gelati Monastery, but it is a considerable distance (approximately 9km) and will take around 2 hours. Follow the main road towards Gelati. Once in Gelati, continue uphill for about 15 minutes to reach the Upper Gelati Church. Note that this route is primarily along the road.
Discover more about Upper Gelati Church of Icon of Most Holy Mother of God of Iveria and Monastery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gelati St. Nino Fathers Monastery
0.1 km
Experience the tranquility and historical significance of Gelati St. Nino Fathers Monastery, a beautiful Orthodox church in Motsameta, Georgia.
Gelati Academy
0.4 km
Explore the historic Gelati Academy Monastery in Motsameta, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
Agro guesthouse KORENA
1.1 km
Experience the charm of the Georgian countryside at Agro Guesthouse KORENA, where authentic hospitality meets stunning natural beauty.
უქიმერიონი - ციხე-ქალაქის ნანგრევები
1.7 km
Explore the serenity and historical significance of Motsameta Monastery, nestled in Georgia's stunning natural landscapes, a must-see for every traveler.
ქუთაისის სატელევიზიო ანძა / Kutaisi TV tower
3.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and modern architecture at the Kutaisi TV Tower, a must-see landmark in the historic city of Kutaisi, Georgia.
Iazoni Cave Natural Monument
4.0 km
Explore the stunning Iazoni Cave Natural Monument in Kutaisi, a geological wonder filled with breathtaking formations and rich biodiversity.
Mtsvanekvavila Temple
5.1 km
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Chapel carved old oak tree
5.4 km
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Sapichkhia Railway Station
5.5 km
Discover the charm of Sapichkhia Railway Station in Kutaisi, a historic transit hub connecting travelers to Georgia's breathtaking landscapes and rich culture.
Makos Guest house
5.7 km
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Ruins of the palace of the kings and the church of St. George
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Sun Guest House
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ავტოგრაფი autograph
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Free Walking Tour Kutaisi
6.0 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Kutaisi through a captivating free walking tour, exploring stunning architecture and local traditions.
Geotrip.Ge - Tours in Kutaisi - Georgia
6.0 km
Discover the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of Kutaisi, Georgia with personalized tours from Geotrip.Ge, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gelati Monastery
0.3 km
Discover the architectural splendor and serene beauty of Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the hills of Motsameta, Georgia.
Motsameta Monastery
1.7 km
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Shota's springs
3.6 km
Discover Shota's Springs in Kutaisi: A natural retreat with therapeutic mineral waters and stunning scenery for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The castle-tower of Greenwood
5.0 km
Explore the historic Castle-Tower of Greenwood in Kutaisi, Georgia, for stunning views and a journey through the region's rich past.
Kutaisi Botanical Garden
5.3 km
Discover a world of flora in Kutaisi's serene botanical garden, home to diverse plant species and a unique chapel inside a 400-year-old oak.
Kharazov Park
5.5 km
Escape to Kharazov Park, a tranquil garden in Kutaisi offering a serene retreat with vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
Boris Gaponov Statue
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Old house
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Kutaisi synagogue
5.6 km
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Водопад и источник
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Discover a refreshing natural escape in the heart of Kutaisi, where a modest waterfall meets a natural spring.
Kutaisi Holy Annunciation temple
5.8 km
Discover Kutaisi's Holy Annunciation Temple: a serene Orthodox church with a rich history, blending Georgian and Baroque architecture.
Bagrati Cathedral
5.9 km
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Soviet Tskhaltubo Tour
6.0 km
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National Museum of Military Glory
6.0 km
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David Agmashenebeli Square
6.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Tina’s Ethno Winehouse
5.5 km
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Sapere
5.7 km
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Black Tomato Kitchen
5.8 km
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Cafe Newport
5.9 km
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Khvicha
5.9 km
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Baraqa
6.0 km
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Bermukha
6.0 km
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El Paso
6.0 km
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Sisters
6.1 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Sisters in Kutaisi – where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.
Restaurant Georgian House
6.1 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine in Kutaisi at Restaurant Georgian House - a must-visit for food lovers!
Fleur
6.1 km
Experience the taste of Georgia at Fleur in Kutaisi – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Agerari Georgian Cuisine
6.1 km
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Food Mix
6.1 km
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Argonauts Bar-restaurant - არგონავტები ბარ-რესტორანი
6.2 km
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Prague
6.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Store groceries
5.5 km
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Indian Spice Store
5.8 km
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Antiques shop - kobalt კობალტი
5.9 km
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კალიბრი
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Souvenirs Bagrati
6.0 km
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Grow shop
6.0 km
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ქართული ხელნაკეთი სუვენირები
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Lichy
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გელათი
6.1 km
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EuroBrand
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MAITE
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Galery
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Textile Land
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პენტი - Penti
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ჩენს შოპ - Chen's Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrace Gelati
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Memoire Wine Room
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Pub Barca
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Destino
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Dingo Shed Bar
6.0 km
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Ziari Bar•ზიარი ბარი
6.1 km
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Black Bottle - შავი ბოთლი
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GALLERY TERRACE
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Wine Corner Kutaisi
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Wine vibes
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Hoegaarden-Kutaisi
6.4 km
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King's lounge bar
6.4 km
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ქალაქი/ The City Bar
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White Stones
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WILD
6.6 km
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