Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory
Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory: Gaze at the Cosmos
Zekari Pass: Georgia's Panoramic Paradise
Discover Zekari Pass: A historic Georgian mountain route with panoramic views, healing springs, and stunning natural beauty. Perfect for off-road adventures!
Zekari Pass, a historic caravan route in Georgia's Meskheti Range, offers stunning panoramic views and a rugged, natural escape. At 2,182 meters, it connects the Imereti and Samtskhe-Javakheti regions, providing vistas of diverse landscapes and access to healing sulfur springs.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Zekari Pass
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Kutaisi-Baghdati-Abastumani-Benara, GE
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Zekari Pass
Getting There
Driving
From Kutaisi, the most common approach to Zekari Pass is via the Kutaisi-Baghdati-Abastumani-Benara road. The journey to the pass itself involves navigating unpaved sections, so an off-road vehicle is highly recommended. Starting in Kutaisi, follow the signs towards Baghdati. From Baghdati, continue towards Abastumani. The road quality decreases significantly as you approach the pass. Be prepared for a slow and bumpy ride. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is available at certain viewpoints along the pass, but it is generally informal and free. Note that during the winter months (October to June), the pass is often closed due to snow.
Local tips
✓
Visit between late June and September for optimal access, as the pass is generally impassable during colder months.
✓
Engage a local guide or driver familiar with the terrain, especially if you plan to traverse the pass in a standard vehicle. An off-road vehicle is highly recommended.
✓
Pack layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate significantly.
✓
Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited in the immediate vicinity of the pass.
✓
Consider visiting the Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory nearby for a unique cultural and scientific experience.
Discover more about Zekari Pass
Zekari Pass, also known as Zikar Pass, is a commanding feature of Georgia's Meskheti Range, perched on the border between the Imereti and Samtskhe-Javakheti regions. This high mountain pass sits at a towering 2,182 meters (7,159 feet). Historically used as a caravan route, the pass offers breathtaking, uninterrupted panoramas of both regions. The air is infused with the subtle scent of sulfur springs, believed to offer therapeutic benefits.
The pass is located 24 kilometers from Baghdati Municipality in Imereti to Adigeni Municipality in Samtskhe-Javakheti. The unpaved road is best suited for off-road vehicles and is typically impassable from October to June due to weather conditions. The surrounding terrain features diverse vegetation, including oak, walnut, chestnut, spruce, and ash trees.
Near the pass lies the Zekari balneological resort, and the Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory is also nearby. The observatory, opened in 1932, was the first high-mountain observatory in the USSR. Visitors can explore the observatory and even observe the sky at night. The pass is a popular destination for hiking and offers views of the Caucasus Mountains.
A brief summary to Zekari Pass
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Rabati Castle
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Rabati Castle, a unique fortress in Akhaltsikhe, Georgia, showcasing a blend of cultural influences and historical significance.
Tell me more about Rabati Castle