Ushguli, one of Europe's highest settlements, offers breathtaking views of the Georgian Caucasus Mountains and a unique glimpse into traditional Svaneti culture. Located at 2,200 meters above sea level, it's a must-visit destination for any traveler to the region.
Ushguli is a community of five small villages in the Svaneti region, connected to the outside world by the Ushguli-Mestia and Ushguli-Lentekhi roads. The latter is only accessible during the warm season, from late spring to early fall, due to heavy snowfall.
The village's remote location has contributed to its isolation, with a history of being almost completely cut off from the rest of Svaneti and the outside world. This isolation has helped preserve its unique culture and architecture.
Things to See
Ushguli is home to the famous Svan Towers, with dozens of these impressive fortifications scattered throughout the villages. The 12th-13th-century fortress built during Queen Tamar's reign is another notable sight, complemented by the Lamaria Mother of God Church, the archaeological museum, and the summer and winter towers of King Tamar.
The St. Barbare Church in the Murqmeli village is also worth visiting, showcasing the region's rich history and architecture. Ushguli's unique and authentic architecture has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Nature
Ushguli is situated on the slopes of the 5,201-meter-high Shkhara peak, Georgia's highest peak and the third-highest in the Caucasus Mountain Range. The views from the village are breathtaking, with a fantastic panorama from wherever you stand.
The clear weather offers a perfect opportunity to capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape, making it a photographer's paradise.
How to Get There
The Ushguli-Mestia and Ushguli-Lentekhi roads connect the village to the outside world. However, the Ushguli-Lentekhi road is only accessible during the warm season, making it essential to plan your visit accordingly.
Highlights
- Breathtaking views of the Georgian Caucasus Mountains
- Unique Svan Towers and traditional architecture
- 12th-13th-century fortress built during Queen Tamar's reign
- Lamaria Mother of God Church and archaeological museum
- St. Barbare Church in the Murqmeli village
- UNESCO World Heritage List recognition
- Situated on the slopes of the 5,201-meter-high Shkhara peak
Getting there by car
Driving distance from Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi city centres. Times are one-way; fuel is a rough estimate.
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From Tbilisi
- Distance
- 495 km
- Drive time
- 9 h 36 min
- Fuel (est.)
- ~144 GEL
-
From Kutaisi
- Distance
- 261 km
- Drive time
- 6 h 57 min
- Fuel (est.)
- ~76 GEL
-
From Batumi
- Distance
- 314 km
- Drive time
- 7 h 30 min
- Fuel (est.)
- ~92 GEL
Gallery
Plan your visit
Tours, guides and services available in this region:
