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.
A brief summary to Zekari Pass
- Kutaisi-Baghdati-Abastumani-Benara, GE
- +995551089923
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.
Getting There
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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.
Discover more about Zekari Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Zanavi Fortress
18.7 km
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St. Nino Church and Convent
21.6 km
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Bieti church
22.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bieti Church, a stunning Orthodox gem nestled in the picturesque Caucasus Mountains of Georgia.
Rabati St. Marine church
22.4 km
Discover the beauty and serenity of Rabati St. Marine Church, a remarkable Orthodox sanctuary in Akhaltsikhe, rich with history and artistry.
Lomsia Castle
22.7 km
Explore the stunning Lomsia Castle in Akhaltsikhe, a fascinating piece of Georgian history offering breathtaking views and rich cultural insights.
Samtskhe-Javakheti DMO
22.7 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Samtskhe-Javakheti with the Municipal Department of Tourism as your guide.
Yard
22.7 km
Discover the heart of Georgian café culture at Yard Café in Akhaltsikhe, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality in a cozy ambiance.
Hotel Gino Wellness Rabati
22.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of history and luxury at Hotel Gino Wellness Rabati, nestled in the heart of Georgia's ancient Akhaltsikhe.
Dubli
22.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Georgia at Dubli, where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Akhaltsikhe.
Castle
22.7 km
Explore the Castle of Akhaltsikhe, a stunning monument of Georgian history and culture, offering breathtaking views and rich heritage in every corner.
Saghighino
22.8 km
Explore the authentic flavors of Georgia at Saghighino, a welcoming restaurant in Akhaltsikhe known for its delicious local dishes and friendly service.
Old Street
22.8 km
Discover the allure of Old Street in Akhaltsikhe, where history meets hospitality in the heart of Georgia.
Old Rabati
22.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Georgia at Old Rabati, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry in a historic setting.
Tsikhisdziri
22.9 km
Experience the beauty and comfort of Tsikhisdziri, a serene hotel in Akhaltsikhe, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Kantora 19
22.9 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Kantora 19 in Akhaltsikhe, where Georgian flavors meet warm hospitality in a charming setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory
8.9 km
Explore the cosmos at the Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory, a historic research center offering stunning views and a glimpse into the universe's wonders.
Sairme Resort
13.0 km
Discover Sairme Resort: Georgia's premier balneological spa, offering therapeutic mineral waters and a serene mountain escape year-round.
Thumbs up Shaped Rock
14.8 km
Explore the captivating Thumbs Up Shaped Rock in Sairme, a symbol of positivity and a unique natural wonder in the heart of Georgia.
Okros Tsikhe Fortress
15.6 km
Explore Okros Tsikhe, the Golden Fortress of Georgia: a medieval marvel with stunning views and a rich history in the heart of Samtskhe-Javakheti.
Tchule Monastery
19.1 km
Discover Tchule Monastery: A serene 14th-century Georgian Orthodox sanctuary nestled in the heart of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region near Adigeni.
Meskhetis Kedi
21.7 km
Discover Meskhetis Kedi: Breathtaking views, diverse hiking, and cultural enrichment await in Georgia's serene mountain escape. A haven for nature lovers!
Sultan Ahmad Mosque
22.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of the Sultan Ahmad Mosque, a historical landmark in Akhaltsikhe, Georgia.
Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum
22.7 km
Explore 25,000+ artifacts from the Neolithic period to today at this cultural gem inside Akhaltsikhe's Rabati Fortress. Open daily except Mondays!
Akhaltsikhe (Rabati) Castle
22.7 km
Explore Akhaltsikhe's Rabati Castle: A historic fortress showcasing Georgian, Ottoman, and Russian influences through centuries of transformation.
გიორგი V ბრწყინვალე
22.8 km
Commemorating Georgia's golden age, the statue of Giorgi V the Brilliant stands as a tribute to a king who restored the kingdom's glory in Akhaltsikhe.
ამირანის გორა
23.0 km
Explore Amiranis Gora in Akhaltsikhe: Uncover Bronze Age secrets at this significant archaeological site.
სამეცხვარეოს თავშესაფარი
23.0 km
A simple mountain shelter in Imereti's Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, offering basic refuge for hikers exploring Georgia's wilderness.
Queen Tamar Statue
23.1 km
A majestic monument in Akhaltsikhe honoring Queen Tamar, symbol of Georgia's Golden Age and a testament to the nation's rich history.
Waterfall
23.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Waterfall Agara in Uraveli, Georgia, a perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Zarzma Monastery
23.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Zarzma Monastery, a captivating Orthodox sanctuary in the heart of Georgia's stunning landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant
8.6 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine in Abastumani's premier restaurant offering traditional dishes in a warm atmosphere.
ჰილტოპ ვერანდა Hilltop Veranda
22.2 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Hilltop Veranda, where every meal is paired with breathtaking views and warm hospitality.
Restaurant Rabati
22.7 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine amidst the historical charm of Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe.
Light house
22.7 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at The Lighthouse Restaurant in Akhaltsikhe - where every meal is accompanied by stunning views.
ოქროს ხანა
22.7 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Golden Time Restaurant within Castle Rabat—where history meets flavor.
Natenadze Wine Restaurant
22.7 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine and exquisite wines at Natenadze Wine Restaurant in Akhaltsikhe.
Restaurant Mimino
22.7 km
Discover authentic Georgian flavors at Restaurant Mimino in Akhaltsikhe - where hospitality meets tradition.
მალე. სწრაფი კვება
22.7 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Male Bistro in Akhaltsikhe - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Khibli ხიბლი
22.7 km
Discover authentic Georgian flavors at Khibli in Akhaltsikhe – where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
New Bar
22.7 km
Experience the best of Akhaltsikhe at New Bar - where delicious hot pots meet creative cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Alaverdi Restaurant - ალავერდი რესტორანი
22.7 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Alaverdi Restaurant in Akhaltsikhe – where tradition meets taste in a charming setting.
მალე • Male
22.8 km
Savor delicious fast food delights at Male in Akhaltsikhe—where quick bites meet local flavor!
Restaurant Kessane
22.8 km
Discover exceptional flavors at Restaurant Kessane in Akhaltsikhe - where local cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Restaurant Millennium Rabati
22.8 km
Discover authentic Georgian flavors at Restaurant Millennium Rabati in Akhaltsikhe, where traditional dishes meet warm hospitality.
Old Bar-Restaurant Akhaltsikhe
23.0 km
Experience authentic Georgian flavors at Old Bar-Restaurant in Akhaltsikhe – where tradition meets taste!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ახალი ბაღი ჟოლო
22.2 km
Discover the charm of Akhaltsikhe's New Garden - a delightful farm shop offering fresh produce and a glimpse into Georgian rural life.
Hotel RABATH
22.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and culture at Hotel RABATH in Akhaltsikhe, your gateway to Georgia's historic treasures.
მესხური ბრენდი
22.7 km
Explore Meskhuri Brendi in Akhaltsikhe for an authentic taste of Georgian wines amidst the historic Rabati Fortress.
Souvenir shop Georgian doll
22.7 km
Explore the Souvenir Shop at Rabati Fortress: A treasure trove of handcrafted Georgian dolls and unique local crafts.
Bread shop
22.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of Georgian baked goods at Akhaltsikhe's delightful Bread Shop, where every bite tells a story.
Daily
22.7 km
Discover the convenience of Daily Store in Akhaltsikhe, where local flavors meet everyday essentials, open daily from 8 AM to midnight.
ყველის კუთხე • Cheese Corner
22.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of Georgian cheese at Cheese Corner in Akhaltsikhe, where tradition meets taste in every bite.
არტ სპექტრი
22.8 km
Discover handcrafted jewelry at Art Spectrum in Akhaltsikhe, celebrating Georgian culture with unique, exquisite designs.
მეორადი
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Explore Akhaltsikhe's vibrant clothing store, where modern fashion meets traditional Georgian style for every traveler.
საყოფაცხოვრებო ნივთები
22.9 km
Discover unique home goods in Akhaltsikhe's hidden gem, blending local craftsmanship with essential household items for every traveler.
Alpha Market
22.9 km
Discover shopping, dining, and vibrant local culture at Alpha Market in Akhaltsikhe – a must-visit mall for every traveler.
Custom Jeweler Rings Earings Necklaces Gold and Silver
23.1 km
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ფეხსაცმელების მაღაზია ,,ლევანტო'' ახალციხეში.
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handgeo
23.2 km
Explore Handgeo in Akhaltsikhe for unique handmade crafts and souvenirs that celebrate the essence of Georgian culture.
სადღესასწაულო მაღაზია
23.2 km
Discover the vibrant Celebration Store in Akhaltsikhe, a unique shopping destination filled with festive treasures and local delights.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hotel Rabati
22.4 km
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Terrassa Launge bar
22.7 km
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HOTEL JULIA Akhaltsikhe
22.7 km
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ძველი პაბი
23.2 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and traditional flavors at Akhaltsikhe's Old Pub, where local culture and hospitality come together.
ძველი პაბი
23.2 km
Discover the vibrant Georgian nightlife at Old Pub, a cozy spot in Akhaltsikhe offering local brews and authentic cuisine.
საუკეთესო გადაწყვეტილება
23.2 km
Discover the lively spirit of Akhaltsikhe at საუკეთესო გადაწყვეტილება, a beer hall offering a wide selection of brews and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Beer bar
23.3 km
Experience the warmth of Vale's beer bar, where local brews and a friendly atmosphere await every traveler.
ინოვაციური ტექნოლოგიის რეცხვა-დეზინფექციის დანადგარი, ნანა ზუმბაძე
23.5 km
Experience the fusion of innovation and tradition at Nino Zumbadze's Beer Garden in Akhaltsikhe, where every sip tells a story.
Sport Bar
23.9 km
Experience the thrill of live sports and vibrant nightlife at the Sport Bar in Akhaltsikhe, where fun meets flavor.
კაფე ბარი კახისი
40.9 km
Experience the warmth and hospitality of Café Bar Kahisi in Dabadzveli, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Leki
41.2 km
Discover the rich flavors of Georgian cuisine at Leki, a top-rated restaurant where tradition meets taste.
ლაშა ყანდორელაშვილის სახელობის სალოთაო
42.5 km
Experience the charm of Georgian hospitality at ლაშა ყანდორელაშვილის სახელობის სალოთაო in Borjomi, a perfect spot for relaxation and local flavors.
Omo's Bar
43.5 km
Experience the charm of Omo's Bar in Borjomi, where cozy ambiance meets exceptional local drinks in the heart of Georgia.
Dimitri’s Wine Cellar and Restaurant
43.6 km
Experience the best of Georgian cuisine and fine wines at Dimitri’s Wine Cellar and Restaurant in Borjomi, a culinary haven for all travelers.
მოსვი
44.0 km
Discover Mosvi, a charming cocktail bar in Borjomi Central Park, where innovative drinks meet stunning natural surroundings for an unforgettable experience.
