Rikoti Pass: Georgia's Majestic Mountain Gateway

Rikoti Pass, situated at an elevation of 996 meters (3,268 feet), is a mountain pass in the southern portion of the Likhi Range, a spur of the Greater Caucasus, which divides Georgia into its eastern and western regions. This makes it a critical link between the two halves of the country. The pass offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, steep cliffs, and verdant forests that change with the seasons. Historically, Rikoti Pass has been an important route for trade and transportation. The ongoing construction and modernization of the E-60 highway, including new tunnels and bridges, aims to improve connectivity and reduce travel time between eastern and western Georgia. A 1,722-meter tunnel was built in 1982 to ease passage through the pass. The highway is being upgraded to a four-lane road with a higher speed limit. Travelers can still experience the beauty of the original pass, with rivers, small tributaries, and deciduous forests. Along the route, you can find restaurants offering traditional dishes and local crafts. Nearby attractions include the Surami Fortress and Ubisa Monastery.