For many travelers, taking a road trip along the Georgian Military Highway is a must-do experience. It not only offers stunning landscapes but also allows you to discover the rich history and culture of Georgia. Here are some of the best stops along this beautiful route that you should not miss.
1. Jvari Monastery
The first stop is located just around 30 minutes from Tbilisi. Atop a hill overlooking Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, Jvari Monastery is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. Built in the 6th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural masterpiece and a significant religious site for Orthodox Christians. The monastery offers panoramic views of the confluence of two rivers, Mtkvari and Aragvi, and the surrounding mountains.
Tip! If you have extra time, we suggest taking a separate day trip from Tbilisi to Mtskheta.
2. Zhinvali Reservoir Viewpoint
As you continue along the Georgian Military Highway, the Zhinvali Reservoir Viewpoint is an unmissable stop. This artificial lake, created after the damming of the Aragvi River in the 1980s, presents a serene and picturesque setting. The turquoise waters of the reservoir contrast beautifully with the lush greenery and the towering mountains in the background, making it a popular spot for taking photos.
Aside from capturing beautiful photos, you can also purchase snacks and traditional Georgian souvenirs.
3. Ananuri Fortress
As you continue your journey on the Georgian Military Highway, you will reach the Ananuri Fortress, a medieval castle complex situated on the shore of the Zhinvali Reservoir. The fortress dates back to the 17th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque surroundings.
4. Pasanauri village
As you make your way towards the Georgian-Russian border, you will pass through the small picturesque village of Pasanauri. Pasanauri, known as the birthplace of khinkali, is famous for its Georgian dumplings. These delicious treats are twisted dough pockets filled with a savory mix of meat and spices. A must-try for any visitor, khinkali offers an authentic taste of Georgian cuisine that is flavorful and satisfying. Apart from its food, the village is also known for its lush surroundings and the meeting of two rivers, creating a beautiful setting for nature lovers.
5. Gudauri Ski Resort
Further up the Georgian Military Highway lies Gudauri, a popular ski resort known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and excellent slopes. Situated at an altitude of over 2,000 meters above sea level, Gudauri offers a variety of winter sports opportunities, from skiing and snowboarding to paragliding and heli-skiing. In the warmer months, it transforms into a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding, making it a year-round destination for adventure seekers.
We strongly advise spending at least few days in Gudauri. If you enjoy snowboarding or downhill skiing, it’s a must-visit destination in winter. Gudauri is remarkably affordable compared to numerous European ski resorts, providing slopes suitable for beginners and advanced skiers alike.
We stayed almost 2 weeks in Gudauri and we loved it! Check out our tips to Gudauri!
6. Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument
Exploring the Georgian Military Highway, don’t miss the Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument. It’s located just 10min from Gudauri.
Built in 1983 to honor the Treaty of Georgievsk bicentennial, it stands on a cliff over Devil’s Valley in the Caucasus Mountains. The monument features a colorful mural showcasing Georgian and Russian history. Offering stunning panoramic views of the mountainous landscape.
7. Sno Village
It’s a spot with huge stone heads – Georgia’s version of Easter Island, set amidst stunning landscapes. Found just before Kazbegi town. Perfect for a brief stop to snap some beautiful photos.
8. Gergeti Trinity Church
Perched on a hill overlooking the town of Stepantsminda and the majestic Mount Kazbek, Gergeti Trinity Church is one of the most iconic religious sites in Georgia. Built in the 14th century, this picturesque church is only accessible by foot or four-wheel drive vehicles, making it a popular spot for day hikes and photo opportunities. The church is still an active place of worship and offers visitors a glimpse into Georgia’s rich religious history.
Good to know! Gergeti Trinity Church sits atop a steep hill, approximately 15 minutes away from Kazbegi center. Accessing it by regular car is not feasible, especially in the winter months. If you have arrived in Kazbegi by regular car, you can easily find a 4×4 vehicle taxi from the center to reach Gergeti Trinity Church. We paid 50 laris for a round trip.
How to travel the Georgian Military Highway from Tbilisi to Kazbegi?
You have 4 options to travel from Tbilisi to Kazbegi: Marshrutka minivan, taxi, private car or organised day trip.
1.The best way is to rent a car or hire a driver with a car for the day. It’s a great way to organize a trip with GoTrip. You can choose your own itinerary, car, and driver, and stop as long as you like at each place. The only requirement is to complete the trip within 24 hours. Prices vary depending on the selected driver and car, typically ranging between 200 and 300 GEL.
Tip! Remember to confirm your trip with the driver. While the driver typically sends a message, you can also reach out to them. Unfortunately, we missed the driver’s message and our trip was canceled. Luckily, we managed to book another driver for the same day and began our journey a few hours later than intended.
2. You can conveniently book a trip using the Bolt app. After booking, feel free to message the driver to check if they can drive you out of Tbilisi. Our first trip to Gudauri with Bolt went smoothly; the driver even agreed to make stops along the way. The fare to Gudauri with Bolt is approximately 200 GEL.
3.The most economical choice is the Marshrutka minivan, yet it lacks the flexibility to make stops for exploring the area and capturing photos along the way.
4.Numerous organized tours from Tbilisi to Kazbegi include various stops along the way.
How much time is needed to travel the Military Highway from Tbilisi to Kazbegi?
Traveling from Tbilisi to Kazbegi typically takes around 3-3.5 hours without stopping. However, this duration can vary significantly based on traffic and road conditions, particularly in winter.
If you plan to make multiple stops along the way, be prepared for a full-day excursion. Departing in the morning, you might not return to Tbilisi until late at night.
We strongly suggest splitting the area exploration over 2 days. Initially, we visited locations before reaching Gudauri, where we stayed. Following our time in Gudauri, we embarked on our second trip from there to Kazbegi before heading back to Tbilisi.
You can also extend your trip and spend a night or two in Kazbegi to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and local culture. This allows for more time to explore hidden gems such as the Sno Valley or take on outdoor activities like hiking or horseback riding.
Is a 4×4 necessary for the drive to Kazbegi?
No, you don’t need to worry. The road between Tbilisi and Kazbegi is good. Though, we’ve heard that during winter months there are occasional avalanches, which could lead to road closures between Gudauri and Kazbegi.
In Kazbegi, there are certain places that require a 4×4 vehicle for access, such as Gergeti Trinity Church. However, if you arrive in a standard car, you can easily take a 4×4 taxi to reach the church, so it’s not an issue.
When is the best time to travel?
The road is a fantastic destination all year round. For enthusiasts of snowboarding and downhill skiing, the winter months are ideal for a visit. Its beauty during winter is truly breathtaking.
