Natural limestone monolith "The Katskhi Pillar"
Mghvimevi church of St. Catherine
The main church with the smaller church of St. Catherine
Fresco of Mghvimevi church of the Nativity of the Mother of God
The Katskhi Monastery of Nativity of the Savior (10th Century)
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross relief from the Katskhi Monastery
Natural limestone monolith "The Katskhi Pillar"
Natural limestone monolith "The Katskhi Pillar"
Ubisa Monastery (9th Century)
"The Last Supper" painted by Damiane in 14th century at Ubisa Monastery
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Tour to Katskhi Pillar&Chiatura from Tbilisi (Mghvimevi,Cableway, Ubisa,Tsitska)

(5)
Tbilisi, Georgia
Cultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan Tours
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About this activity

A comprehensive 12-hour private tour combining Georgia's most dramatic spiritual and historical landmarks: the gravity-defying Katskhi Pillar with its mountaintop monastery, the cave-hewn Mgvimevi church, Soviet-era cable cars of Chiatura, and the fresco-rich Ubisa monastery complex. This journey reveals layers of Georgian Orthodox heritage, medieval architecture, and indigenous wine culture in one immersive day.

Private full day tour to Katskhi Pillar and Chiatura includes visiting two-nave church of Mgvimevi built in a natural cave in the 13th century, mining town Chiatura with the oldest Soviet cable cars, Katskhi Monastery with a unique hexagonal design and ornamentation, Katskhi Pillar - a natural limestone monolith with the most sacred churches on top and the medieval monastic complex of Ubisa with some of the best frescoes in Georgia. Private tour includes tasting Khachapuri (Georgian Cheese Bread) in the mountain village and tasting Tsitska wine that is part of the Imereti family of indigenous Georgian vines. Guests will also enjoy great landscapes of Jvari Pass and Rikoti Pass. Total drive 435 km (265 miles).

Highlights

  • ✓Katskhi Pillar — a 40-metre limestone monolith topped with a sacred monastery accessible by rope ladder
  • ✓Mgvimevi two-nave cave church dating to the 13th century, naturally carved into rock
  • ✓Chiatura's atmospheric Soviet-era aerial cable cars — among the oldest still in use in the world
  • ✓Ubisa monastery with exceptional medieval frescoes and intricate architectural details
  • ✓Tsitska wine tasting of this indigenous Imereti white varietal and fresh khachapuri in a mountain village
  • ✓Scenic mountain passes (Jvari and Rikoti) with panoramic Caucasus views

Insider tips

  • ★Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip — the Katskhi Pillar rope ladder requires confidence and physical fitness; not suitable for those with severe fear of heights
  • ★Start early to maximize daylight at Katskhi and photograph the pillar in golden afternoon light
  • ★Request your guide to time the Chiatura cable car ride during quieter hours; rides are brief but atmospheric in low light
  • ★Ask your guide about the fresco scenes at Ubisa — most depict saints and biblical narratives in a distinct Imereti artistic tradition

Good to know

  • •Total distance: 435 km round trip; expect 5–6 hours of driving with 1–2 stops
  • •Private tour includes driver and English-speaking guide; group size typically 1–6 passengers
  • •Bring water, sun protection, and a light jacket (mountain weather changes quickly)
  • •Katskhi Pillar visit involves moderate climbing and a rope-ladder ascent; not wheelchair accessible. Mgvimevi and Ubisa are partially accessible on foot
  • •Wine and khachapuri tasting included; notify guide of dietary restrictions in advance

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts seeking medieval Georgian monasteries and cave churchesAdventure travellers comfortable with heights and moderate physical activityWine and food explorers keen to taste indigenous Georgian varieties and regional specialtiesCultural photographers and spiritual tourists interested in Orthodox heritage sites

Best time to visit

Visit spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for optimal weather, wildflowers, and comfortable hiking conditions. Summer can be very hot at lower elevations; winter snow may affect mountain passes. Morning departure ensures you reach Katskhi by mid-day when light is best for photography and safety.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€139
per person