Tmogvi Castle: A Sentinel of Stone
Explore the ruins of Tmogvi Castle, a historic Georgian fortress with breathtaking views of the Kura River valley.
Tmogvi Castle, a ruined fortress in southern Georgia's Samtskhe-Javakheti region, stands as a testament to the country's rich history and strategic importance. Perched atop a rocky mountain overlooking the Kura River, it once controlled a vital trade route and served as a crucial military stronghold. Though now in ruins, Tmogvi's imposing silhouette and the panoramic views it offers continue to captivate visitors.
A brief summary to Tmogvi Castle
- 98X9+P2M, Tmogvi, GE
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the steep and rocky climb to the fortress.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the site.
- Visit during cooler weather, as the climb can be strenuous on sunny days.
- Allow several hours to explore the fortress and enjoy the views.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby cave city of Vardzia.
Getting There
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Walking
From Tmogvi village, cross the small pedestrian bridge and follow either the steep footpath or the dirt road uphill. The footpath is a more direct, but challenging ascent, while the dirt road takes a longer, more gradual route. Both paths eventually converge before a final, shorter path leads to the fortress entrance. Be prepared for some scrambling over boulders near the top.
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Public Transport
Take a minibus (marshrutka) from Tbilisi to Vardzia. From Vardzia, hire a taxi or walk approximately 4 km to Tmogvi village. From the village, follow the walking directions to reach the fortress. Minibus fare from Tbilisi to Vardzia is approximately 7 USD.
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Taxi
Hire a taxi from Akhaltsikhe or Vardzia to Tmogvi village. From the village, follow the walking directions to reach the fortress. A taxi from Akhaltsikhe to Tmogvi may cost around 20-30 GEL. Confirm the price before starting your journey.
Discover more about Tmogvi Castle
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