Day Tour: Jvari, Mtskheta, Gori, Uplistsikhe & Home-Cooked Lunch

Exploring the historical treasures of Georgia is a captivating experience, and this day tour promises to deliver just that. Delving into the ancient sites of Jvari, Mtskheta, Gori, and Uplistsikhe, this small-group adventure offers a chance to uncover the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the awe-inspiring Jvari Monastery to the intriguing Gori Museum, the tour provides a well-curated glimpse into Georgia’s past. But the true highlight might just be the opportunity to indulge in a delectable home-cooked lunch, allowing you to savor the flavors that have nourished this land for generations. Prepare to be immersed in a day of discovery and culinary delight.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day tour visiting Jvari Monastery, Mtskheta, Gori, and Uplistsikhe with a home-cooked lunch included, operated by Envoy Tours.
• Tour includes admission to Stalin’s Museum and Uplistsikhe, with an English-speaking guide providing insights throughout the journey.
• Pickup and drop-off at Envoy Hostel & Tours in Tbilisi, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for transportation.
• Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller-friendly; infants must sit on laps during the tour.
• Tour starts promptly at 9:00 AM, and confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Tour Overview

The day tour typically includes visits to the historic sites of Jvari, Mtskheta, Gori, and Uplistsikhe, along with a home-cooked lunch.

Operated by Envoy Tours, the tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. Priced from $52 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking professional guide, lunch with vegetarian and vegan options, bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, and admission tickets to Stalin’s Museum and Uplistsikhe.

The tour starts and ends at the Envoy Hostel & Tours in Tbilisi, Georgia, with a scheduled departure time of 9:00 AM.

Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.

Inclusions

Envoy Tours’ day tour includes an English-speaking professional guide to lead participants throughout the journey.

The guide’s expertise ensures visitors gain valuable insights into the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited.

Lunch, including vegetarian and vegan options, is provided to ensure a satisfying midday meal.

Bottled water is available for hydration during the excursion.

An air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver ensure a comfortable and safe transportation experience.

Gratuities are included, removing any uncertainty about tipping.

Admission tickets to Stalin’s Museum and Uplistsikhe are also provided, allowing seamless access to these renowned attractions.

Meeting and Pickup

Participants meet at the Envoy Hostel & Tours, located at 45 Betlemi St in Tbilisi, Georgia, where the tour begins.

The pickup is provided from this location, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

The tour starts at 9:00 AM, and confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infants must sit on laps.

Most travelers are able to participate in this tour.

Schedule and Accessibility

This tour starts promptly at 9:00 AM. It’s important for travelers to arrive on time as the tour has a full schedule.

Confirmation of the booking is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on their parents’ laps during the tour.

Most travelers can participate, but it’s essential to be aware of the physical requirements. The tour ends back at the meeting point, the Envoy Hostel & Tours, where the journey began.

Jvari Monastery

The towering Jvari Monastery, perched atop a hill overlooking the junction of the Aragvi and Kura rivers, is the first stop on this captivating day tour. Visitors can explore the impressive 6th-century church, admiring its intricate carvings and stunning vistas. The monastery’s strategic location offers panoramic views of the ancient city of Mtskheta, making it an ideal spot to begin the journey.

Feature	Description
Architecture	The church’s cruciform plan and striking stone façade reflect the distinctive Georgian Orthodox style.
History	Jvari Monastery was an important religious and cultural center, playing a significant role in the Christianization of the region.
Significance	The site is considered one of the most significant landmarks in Georgia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Views	The vantage point provides breathtaking perspectives of the converging rivers and the historic town below.
Accessibility	Visitors must climb a series of steps to reach the monastery, making it less suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Mtskheta: Ancient Capital

After exploring the impressive Jvari Monastery, the tour continues to Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its magnificent 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the country. Visitors can stroll through the charming old town, admiring the historic architecture and browsing local handicrafts.

• Explore the interior of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a jewel of medieval Georgian architecture.
• Wander through the picturesque old town, filled with traditional houses and shops.
• Visit the Jvari Monastery, perched on a hilltop overlooking the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers.
• Enjoy the serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the ancient city.

Gori and Stalin Museum

Next on the day tour, travelers make their way to the city of Gori, the birthplace of the infamous Soviet leader Joseph Stalin.

The tour includes a visit to the Stalin Museum, which offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of the controversial figure. Visitors can explore Stalin’s childhood home, see his personal belongings, and learn about the complex history of the Soviet era.

The museum provides a thought-provoking experience, allowing travelers to form their own perspectives on this influential, yet controversial, historical leader.

After the museum visit, the tour continues to the ancient rock-hewn city of Uplistsikhe, which offers a glimpse into Georgia’s rich cultural heritage.

Uplistsikhe Cave Town

Leaving the Stalin Museum behind, the tour continues its journey to Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave city carved into the rocky cliffs overlooking the Mtkvari River.

This unique archaeological site dates back to the 1st millennium BC, showcasing the ingenuity of its early inhabitants. Visitors can explore the intricate network of caves, temples, and structures that were once home to a thriving community.

The site offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, adding to the overall enchanting experience.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the cave dwellings and rock-cut structures
• Visiting the remnants of the ancient pagan temple
• Marveling at the city’s strategic location overlooking the river
• Learning about the site’s rich history and cultural significance

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Number of Travelers in a Group?

The maximum group size for this tour is 15 travelers. The tour is operated by Envoy Tours and includes a professional English-speaking guide, lunch, transportation, and entrance fees to the attractions.

Are Vegetarian and Vegan Options Available for the Lunch?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available for the lunch on this tour. The tour operator, Envoy Tours, offers these dietary options upon request to cater to all travelers’ dietary needs.

Can I Be Picked up From a Different Location?

Yes, you can be picked up from a different location. The tour operator provides pickup service from the Envoy Hostel and Tours, but they may accommodate alternate pickup requests depending on availability and location. You’d need to check with them directly.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no specific dress code for this tour, but visitors should dress comfortably and appropriately for outdoor sightseeing. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and layers are recommended to ensure a pleasant experience.

Can I Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

Yes, guests can bring their own water and snacks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, but bringing additional drinks or snacks is permitted and can be convenient for personal preferences or dietary needs.

Sum Up

This day tour offers a captivating glimpse into Georgia’s rich history and culture. Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of ancient sites like Jvari Monastery and Uplistsikhe, while also exploring the legacy of Stalin at the Gori Museum. With a delicious home-cooked lunch included, it’s a well-rounded experience that showcases the best of Georgia’s historical and culinary delights.