Kutaisi: Chiatura Cable Cars & Katskhi Pillar Guided Tour

Travelers looking for an authentic taste of Georgia’s less-traveled sights will find this guided tour from Kutaisi a compelling option. It offers the chance to see some of the country’s most intriguing attractions—like the iconic Katskhi Pillar, the vintage cable cars of Chiatura, and the tranquil Mghvimevi convent—all within a manageable day. This tour really shines in its blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture, with expert guides to help interpret each site.

Two aspects of this tour stand out: First, the stunning views you’ll enjoy from above on the Chiatura cable cars and atop the Katskhi Pillar. And second, the insights provided by guides who bring each place to life with fascinating stories and historical context.

A possible consideration is the limited flexibility once the schedule is set—if you prefer a more casual, slow-paced visit, this might feel a bit structured. Also, since the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, it’s best suited for travelers in decent mobility and comfortable shoes. This tour is perfect for those eager to combine adventure, history, and scenic beauty in a day and for visitors keen on exploring Georgia’s less-touristed corners.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences with expert guides sharing local stories and insights
• Breathtaking views from cable cars and atop the Katskhi Pillar
• Comfortable round-trip transportation from Kutaisi
• Balanced itinerary with a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture
• Small group size enhances personal attention and interaction
• Value for money considering the included cable car ride and guided visits

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Megobari Tours meeting point, conveniently located across from the Colchis fountain in Kutaisi’s Central Park Columns area. Be aware that the park is currently fenced off for construction, so the guide will coordinate pickup via WhatsApp or email. This small detail is noteworthy, as it shows the organizers’ effort to keep travelers informed despite local changes.

The round-trip transportation in a comfortable van ensures you won’t have to worry about navigating Georgia’s sometimes winding roads yourself. The tour runs for about 7 hours, providing a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The small group limit of 7 participants means you’ll get more personalized attention—something many travelers appreciate.

The Highlights

Katskhi Pillar: A Monument of Faith and Solitude

Your first major stop is the Katskhi Pillar, a striking limestone monolith towering approximately 40 meters high. It’s not just a natural wonder but also a religious one, topped with a small church. You’ll have time for a photo stop, and the guide will lead a short guided tour around the site, explaining its spiritual significance and history.

One of the most compelling stories is about the monk who used to live atop the pillar, completely isolated from the world. You might find this solitude fascinating, and it lends a sense of reverence to the site. The small church at the foot of the pillar adds to the sense of sacredness—making it a peaceful spot to pause and reflect.

Chiatura: A Soviet-Era Mining Town with Unique Transportation

Next, your adventure takes you to Chiatura, a town famous for its once-vital manganese mines and notorious Soviet cable car system. These cable cars, installed in the 1950s, were built to transport miners up and down steep hillsides—now they serve as a quirky, functional part of local life.

You will ride one of the newer gondola lines, which feels like gliding over the landscape, offering stunning scenic views of the hills, mosaics, and Soviet-style residential blocks. The experience is both fun and insightful; some old cabins, known as “flying coffins,” still hang on abandoned lines, adding a dash of history and a bit of adventure.

The guide will point out Soviet monuments and mosaics, giving insights into the town’s industrial past. Several reviews mention how guides like Mikheili and Jacob are extremely knowledgeable, helping visitors understand the significance of what they see.

Many travelers find the cable car ride an unexpected highlight, providing a sense of being transported back in time while enjoying the panoramic views.

Mghvimevi Convent: Peaceful Monastic Heritage

The final major stop is the Mghvimevi convent, a serene monastery complex carved into rocks, dating back to the 6th century. Surrounded by lush green forest, it offers a tranquil break from the busier sites. It’s a place to soak in spirituality, admire frescoes, and explore ancient cave dwellings and sacred springs.

You’ll be guided through the grounds, with stories about its history and architectural features. Several reviews mention how guides like Ana and Eva make the experience fun and informative, sharing their enthusiasm and personal knowledge.

The Overall Itinerary

The day is carefully structured to balance travel and sightseeing:

• You start with a short drive from Kutaisi to the Katskhi Pillar (about 40 minutes)
• A quick photo stop and guided tour at the site
• Then, about 20 minutes to Chiatura, with a two-hour tour including the cable car ride and sightseeing
• A brief 10-minute drive to the Mghvimevi convent
• Afterward, a 1.5-hour drive back to Kutaisi, wrapping up the day

This schedule ensures you cover all highlights without feeling overly rushed, though some may prefer more time at each site.

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Value and Practicalities

Given the price covers transportation, guided tours, and the cable car ride, many travelers find it a good value. The small group setting enhances interaction and makes the experience more personal. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes this tour a worthwhile investment for those eager to see Georgia’s less-visited treasures.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. Oliver mentions how Sandra’s passion and friendliness made the experience memorable, while Maria highlights Ana’s ability to personalize the tour and keep it fun. Many appreciate the comfortable logistics and the chance to see a side of Georgia not often found in travel brochures.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture. It’s a great pick for those who like small-group adventures that lean on expert guides to bring sights to life. If you’re interested in Soviet history, religious sites, or scenic cable cars, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Keep in mind, it’s best for those comfortable with walking on uneven terrain, and it’s not wheelchair accessible. If you prefer a very leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, consider that when booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip from Kutaisi.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers guided visits to Katskhi Pillar, Chiatura, and Mghvimevi Convent, round-trip transportation, and a cable car ride in Chiatura.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, so it’s best for children who are comfortable on their feet. Not suitable for wheelchair users.

How many people are in a group?
Limited to 7 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around the sites. Weather-appropriate clothing is also advised.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it possible to customize the tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are known to be friendly and helpful—some reviews mention guides tailoring parts of the tour to interests.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most international travelers.

In Closing

This full-day guided tour from Kutaisi offers a well-rounded experience of Georgia’s hidden gems. From the majestic Katskhi Pillar to the nostalgic cable cars in Chiatura and the peaceful Mghvimevi monastery, it provides a chance to see the country’s natural beauty, history, and culture in one satisfying package.

Travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, are eager to see less touristy sites, and enjoy spectacular views will find this tour very rewarding. With knowledgeable guides and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a smart choice for those wanting a meaningful day out in Georgia.

If you’re ready to explore some of Georgia’s unique sights with comfortable logistics, this tour is an excellent way to do it.

You can check availability for your dates here: