Queen Tamar Castle
Queen Tamar Castle: Ushguli's Stone Sentinel
Shkhara Glacier: Georgia's Icy Giant
Hike to the source of the Enguri River and witness the raw beauty of Georgia's highest peak at Shkhara Glacier.
Shkhara Glacier, nestled in the Svaneti region of Georgia, is a majestic river of ice flowing from the slopes of Mount Shkhara, Georgia's highest peak. It's one of the largest glaciers in the Caucasus Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a relatively accessible hiking experience.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Shkhara Glacier
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
Walking
The most common way to reach Shkhara Glacier is by hiking from Ushguli. From the center of Ushguli, follow the road north along the Inguri River. The trail is mostly flat, following a gravel road. After about 6km, the road will arrive at the Shkhara Glacier restaurant. From there, a trail continues, climbing gradually to the foot of the glacier. The round trip is approximately 14-16km and takes 5-7 hours. There are no entrance fees to access the trail or glacier.
Public Transport
To reach Ushguli, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Mestia. Minibuses depart from Seti Square in Mestia in the morning, typically waiting until they are full. The ride to Ushguli takes approximately 2 hours and costs around 40 GEL. From Ushguli, follow the walking directions to the glacier.
Taxi
You can hire a taxi or jeep in Mestia to take you to Ushguli. A private taxi will cost around 150-200 GEL. From Ushguli, you can either hike to the glacier or hire a jeep in Ushguli to shorten the hike. A jeep from Ushguli to the glacier and back costs around 300-400 GEL.
Local tips
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The best time to visit Shkhara Glacier is from June to early October when the weather is mild and the trail is free of snow.
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Wear comfortable and sturdy hiking boots, as the trail can be rocky in places.
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Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
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Be aware of the risk of falling rocks and ice near the glacier.
Discover more about Shkhara Glacier
Shkhara Glacier is a stunning natural wonder located in the Svaneti region of Georgia. It originates on the slopes of Mount Shkhara, the highest peak in Georgia, reaching an elevation of 5,193 meters (17,040 feet). The name 'Shkhara' translates to 'milk' in the Svan language, likely referencing the glacier's snow-covered appearance.
The glacier stretches over 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), making it one of the largest in the Caucasus Mountains. Fed by numerous smaller glaciers, it's a dynamic landscape of constantly moving and changing ice formations. The area surrounding Shkhara Glacier boasts towering peaks, verdant valleys, and pristine streams. The glacier is the source of the Enguri River.
The most popular way to experience Shkhara Glacier is via a day hike from Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The hike is considered easy to moderate, making it accessible to those with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail follows the Enguri River valley, offering stunning views of Mount Shkhara and the surrounding landscape.
While the hike to Shkhara Glacier is a rewarding experience, it's important to exercise caution near the glacier's face due to the risk of falling rocks and ice.
A brief summary to Shkhara Glacier
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More about Svaneti
Discover Svaneti in Georgia: An enchanting region of ancient towers, majestic mountains, and timeless traditions waiting to be explored by adventurous travelers.
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