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About Georgia

About Country Cheat Sheet

Formal Name:

Georgia

Location of Kazakhstan:

Eastern Europe

Capital:

Tbilisi

Demonym:

Georgian

Area:

153909Sq Km

Population:

3723500

Ethnic Groups:

Other

Languages:

Georgian

Religion:

Other

Currency:

Georgian lari (GEL, ლ)

Best Time To Visit:

Sep

Calling Code:

995

Drives On:

Right

Visa on Arrival:

Major Cities:

Administrative and Territorial Structure:

9 Regions, 2 Autonomous Republics, 76 Municipalities

Land Boundaries:

Total: 1,814 km, Boder Countries: Russia 894 km, Turkey 273 km, Armenia 219 km, Azerbaijan 428 km

Details

Geography of Georgia

Georgia is a country in mountainous south Caucasus regionin Eurasia. Georgia is located at the juncture of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. Georgia Geography covers an area of over 69,000 square KM and shares borders with Russia in the north, Turkey and Armenia in south, Azerbaijan in east and black sea in the west. Georgia has enclosed high valleys, wide basins, health spas with famous mineral waters, caves and waterfalls. The country has varied landscapes and amazing beauty at the same time. Tbilisi is the capital city of Georgia. Tbilisi is located on the banks of the river Mtkvari, in a valley surrounded by hills.

Mountains in the country determine Georgia Nature. The greater Caucasus ranges cross the country where the highest peaks are Mt. Shkhara and Mt. Kazbek. Country is very lively which visitors can observe in its warm climate, stone houses built around vine-draped courtyards, and winding streets.

Climate and Weather in Georgia

Georgia Climate is influenced by two factors. One is subtropical influence from the west side and two is continental influence from the east side. Greater Caucasus range moderates the local climate. It acts as a barrier for the cold air that comes from the north. Climate in Georgia is dominant subtropical in Kolhida lowland from Abkhazia to the borders of Turkey that goes along black sea coast. This region has high humidity and heavy precipitation. In this region average temperature in winters is 5 °C and average temperature in summers is 22 °C. In the plains of Georgia it is mainly continental climate as the region is shielded by mountains. In this region average temperature is 3 °C in winters and 22 °C in summers. Other regions have distinct microclimates in Georgia.

Georgia Weather is generally quite good. Summers are warm in the capital city and winters are long, cold and partly cloudy as well. Best time to visit Georgia is from early July till the late of August.

History of Georgia

History of Georgia has been full of unions and collapses. First time the country was united in 8th to 9th century under Bagrationi dynasty by the king Bagrat III. From that time till mid of 13th century the country flourished first under King David IV the Builder and then Queen Tamar the Great. In 1243 however Georgia was invaded by Mongols and Georgia fell to them. Country reunited for a while and again fell to Timurid Empire. Georgia was fragmented into many kingdoms and principalities by 1490. This continued and Georgia struggled to maintain its autonomy for a long time against Ottoman and Iranian. Finally Georgia got freedom from domination of Ottoman and Iranian only to be annexed by Russian empire in 19th century.

Georgia History saw domination of external powers leaving the land divided. For a while during 1918-1921 Georgia saw independence and then later on became part of Transcaucasian Socialist Federative soviet Republic from 1922 to 1936. After that it formed Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic until Soviet Union was finally dissolved. Georgia became independent at the fall of Soviet Union in 1991 and since then it is independent Republic of Georgia. Visitors can experience the history of Georgia best by walking the land themselves.

Culture and Traditions of Georgia

Georgia Culture evolved over centuries. Throughout the long history, the country evolved with a unique national culture and literary tradition. This allowed culture of Georgia to be distinctive despite being under foreign occupation for very long time. Georgian is the primary language of Georgia. Georgian Orthodox is the religion followed by almost 65% Georgians. Russian Orthodox or Armenian Apostolic religions are followed by 18-20 % population. Religion however is the not an impacting factor in Georgian culture. Persian culture spread and influenced Georgia significantly from early 16th century until 19th century. This is because many Georgian kings were either born or raised in Iran. This can be seen in Georgian columns, painting, literature and architecture.

People of Georgia are quite welcoming where in Georgia tradition guests are considered as gift. When people meet they shake hands saying “gamarjoba” which means “hello”. Giving gifts is also a natural thing in the tradition. Other traditions of Georgia are also worth exploring. Culture of craftsmanship is widespread in the country where folk craftsmanship even now makes handmade products and not in a factory. Folk craftsmanship started in Georgia thousands years ago when mankind created stone tools, carved patterns on stone and developed aesthetic vision. In Tbilisi, in historic town Mtskheta you can see people selling traditional handcrafted toys and other products.

Food and Cuisine in Georgia

Tourists visiting Georgia find cuisine of the place one of the main attractions. Georgian cuisine is thousands years old pertaining to Georgian cooking style and dishes. Georgian cuisine is specific to the country but also have some influences from Europe and Middle East. It includes variety of Georgia food and dishes rich in many herbs and spices. Different historical provinces of Georgia have distinct culinary traditions. Georgian food is mainly variety of vegetarian based dishes. Both food and drink has importance in Georgia and it can be best observed during a feast called supra. During feast a huge assortment of dishes are prepared and they are accompanied by big amount of local (one of the world’s oldest) wine. Tamada or toastmaster has honoured position in a Georgian feast.

Popular local Georgia cuisines are Abkhazia, Adjara and Guria. Most popular Georgian food from Abkhazia cuisine is Abysta (Porridge made of corn) and the most popular dessert is Akuarkuar, cookie with honey. In Adjara cuisine in moutians, dairy products are main items. Most popular dish in Adjara is Adjaruli Khachapuri and Borano. Guria is mainly based on chicken meat, corn breads and walnuts. Satsivi (Meat, mostly chicken) is the most popular dish in Guria. So, on your trip to Georgia, you have plenty of dishes to try and taste.

Languages of Georgia

The national and primary language of Georgia is Georgian. The language is a part of Caucasus region but it is very different from other languages outside its area.

Interesting Facts About Georgia

1. Georgia isn't called Georgia by the locals. Instead they refer to their homeland as Sakartvelo, Georgia's ancient name.

2. What's the highest mountain range in Europe isn't the Apls; It's the Caucasus Mountains marking the border between Georgia and Russia with its second highest peak in Georgia and its called Shkara (5,193m/ 17,040ft). Mt. Shkara, which is 400m taller than Mont Blanc is fast becoming a destination for climbers, trekkers and skiers.

3. One can see Joseph Stalin's posters at most market places. Stalin, a revered leader, was someone who defeated Hitler and had an impact on world history.

4. There are numerous space-age looking architectures in Georgia. The parliament looks like a huge glass bubble similar to a giant frog's eye. The new police stations have been built all glass and see through, symbolic of Georgia's aspirations for democratic transparency.

5. There is a lot of body contact between men in Georgia. Men stroll down the main avenue arm-in-arm, or lounge on street corners, limbs entwined. While anti-gay protests have proved there's a large number of people who are homophobic but many Georgians were shocked by the intolerance calling it "a sad day for Georgia".

6. Georgian's are friendly to the extent that they can pull out a bottle of Chacha or home-made wine and raise a toast. Both must be downed in large shots. Georgians like to invite friends for full-scale traditional dinner. Hence the term "Georgian Hospitality"

7. While many European nations have seen religious adherence fall in recent decades, the Orthodox Church in Georgia is booming. Over 80% of Georgians say they belong to the Church while its head, Patriarch Ilia II, is the most respected public figure by far. The churches have kept people united and kept them connected.

8. Georgians do not believe in being dependent on government or administration system and rely heavily on friends and family in times of need. For example they'd say - "I have a cousin, uncle or a friend who can sort this problem.

9. The world’s deepest cave is the Voronya Cave in Georgia.

10. Georgia is considered as a transcontinental country as it spans from Europe and South-west Asia.

Tourism

Georgia Tourism

Georgia is a country that has whirl into a tourist scene as tourist finds itself easily lost in this Caucasian country. It has a welcoming culture, stunning nature, affordable accommodation and cheap transportations to explore the country. It offers so much to see and explore from the Scenery Mountains, seaside, right up to the vibrant city life with delicious food and drinks.

Different Types of Tourism in Georgia

1. Historical Tourism in Georgia

Georgia has experienced a turbulent history that moves back millennium of years. The country has become and immersed much from other nations as the country was dominated by other empires for many centuries of its life: the Romans, the Persian Empire, the Mongols, etc. There are few historical attractions such Museum of Georgia, Soviet Occupation Exhibition Hall, Elene Akhvlediani House-Museum, Open Air Museum of Ethnography and many others.

2. Cultural Tourism in Georgia

Georgian culture is an exotic, mystical and ancient culture drawback for a golden age. Elements of different cultures have changed Georgia’s own traditional character to wind up in one of the most exceptional and hospitable cultures in the world. Georgian culture is world notable for being friendly and permissive. Some of its cultural attractions are Narikala Fortress, Tsminda Sameba Cathedral, Old Town (Altstadt) Tbilisi and many others.

3. Sea and Nature Tourism in Georgia

The nature of Georgia offers an astonishing variety of scenery, flora and fauna. Georgia is set on the Black Sea coast among the mountain ranges of the Greater Caucasus in the north and the Lesser Caucasus in the south. Mountains cover two-thirds of Georgia’s land area. Stretching among the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, Georgia’s flourishing landscape lies faint. Sulfuric warm springs and mild stone coast offer the same unmatched beauty as when the Byzantines and Greeks tread this land.

4. Sports and Adventure Tourism in Georgia

If you're love extreme sports and adventure, Georgia’s capital is the best way to explore the adventurous fun and activities. Tbilisi's region among lush landscape, lofty mountains, and gushing rivers doesn't just paint a pretty picture which makes the cities one of the best places in the world for adrenaline junkies such as riding the waves, speed race, learn how to shoot a gun, paragliding, sky diving etc.

5. Honeymoon Tourism in Georgia

Georgia in Europe is an excellent romantic destination boasting of a mix of spectacular natural beauty, a fascinating range of adventure and fun activities, fantastic food and wine, amiable people and plenty of space to relight romance. The country offers the absolute feeling in romance, from beautiful views, special dinners, romantic suites, adventure and more. Extremely perplexing history gave the country magnificent heritage that is reveal in arts, cave cities, ancient cathedrals, and architecture. It’s astonishing vineyards, pleasant wine, and alluring cuisine won’t leave you disappointed.

6. MICE Tourism in Georgia

Georgia is an interesting destination for MICE preparations. Located in the southeastern part of Europe, it becomes more and more suitable among the new MICE destinations. Bustling Tbilisi and Batumi, panoramic landscapes and lots of innovative options for MICE arrangements make Georgia very inviting for organizing a very special event. Georgia was named the best place for MICE tourism by the Buying Business Travel Awards 2016.

7. Health and Wellness Tourism in Georgia

Georgia is a prosperous country for having a good structured spa and wellness resorts. The country has a pleasant climate and a healthy environment because of its good location. Some of its famous spa resorts to spend in Georgia are Sam Raan Spa & Wellness Centre, Georgia Palace Hotel & Spa, Tbilisi Balneological Resort, Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel, Tbilisi and many others.

8. Culinary Tourism in Georgia

Georgian cuisine is arguably one of the world’s most underrated cuisines, inheriting aroma from Greece and the Mediterranean, as well as influences from Turkey and Persia. The importance of both food and drink to Georgian culture is best celebrated during a festivity called supra when a huge selection of dishes are prepared, always followed by large amounts of local wine, well-known to be one of the world's oldest wines.

9. Nightlife Tourism in Georgia

Nightlife in Georgia is still at a starting phase and thus the main clubs, cafes and restaurants are in Tbilisi. There are various nightclubs and hot spots for party lovers which are mostly based in Rustaveli Avenue. There are many bars to visit in Tbilisi such as Tunnel club, Space hall, Khidi, Bude bar and success, Slave and many others.

10. Winter Tourism in Georgia

During the winter, the Georgian highlands are covered in snow. The winter resorts are constantly opened during the season and the ski tracks in Goderdzi, Mestia-Hatsvali, Gudauri, Bakuriani and Tetnuldiare are enthusiastic to receive tourists. There are a lot of reasons to come to Georgia in the winter - the dazzling Caucasus Mountains, the good people, the fascinating 8,000-year-old wine culture, the heavenly food, the exceptional architecture, the history and much more.

Travel Guide

Georgia Tour and Travel Guide

Georgia is explored for its green valleys, mountain scenery, old churches, culture and its history. Every year people are attracted to Georgia’s tourist attractions which have marvelled travellers of every kind. Georgia is especially loved for its hospitality towards their guest. They are cultured proud and high spirited people.

Tbilisi Tour Guide

Tbilisi is the capital city of Georgia with a complicated history with a long period of Russian and Persian. There is a lot of modern architecture along the streets of the city. Old Tbilisi has something interesting to offer, walking along the backstreet and old alleys, you can find many wine houses, local art shops etc.

1. Penny Wise Georgia

Items	Price in Georgian Lari (GEL)	Price in Dollars ($)
Meal for 2, in inexpensive Restaurant	11.07	4.92
Meal for 2, in mid range Restaurant, Three-course	40	17.78
Combo Meal at McDonalds	13.57	6.03
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)	2	0.89
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)	3	1.33
Cappuccino (regular)	2.97	1.32
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle)	0.97	0.43
Milk (Regular, 1 Ltr.)	2.47	1.10
Water (0.33 liter bottle)	0.53	0.24
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)	10	4.45
Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro)	3.0	1.33
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)	2	0.89
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)	0.60	0.27
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)	8	3.56

* Prices are our approximation and may vary slightly.
* Prices are market prices of articles and may vary at restaurants and hotels.

2. Accommodation in Georgia

Accommodation in Georgia is easy to find with certain choice that can shape any tourist stay and experience. There are a wide range of accommodations which can be hotels, stay in, guest house etc. The most cheapest and affordable kind of accommodation is the guesthouse stay. There are also affordable hotels in and around the different cities of Georgia.

3. Travelling in Georgia

Getting around Georgia is easy as there are easy means of transports all over the country. You can drive around the road if you have a car and make sure to have reliable roadmaps. There are also coaches which can take you many places around the city. Another option is to opt for the train they travel far distant and can take you from one city to the other city in Georgia.

4. Shopping in Georgia

Shopping in Georgia is fun in its capital city, Tbilisi as it’s the shopping capital of the country. It has expanded many different kinds of shops, shopping mall, art architecture, culinary places etc. Some of its popular shopping places are Dry Bridge Flea Market, Georgian clothes at Samoseli Pirveli, Meidan Bazaa, Cloisonné jewellery shopping in Tbilisi and many others.

5. Best Time to Visit Georgia

Georgia is best to visit during the summer time as there are a lot of activities to do and places to see. The roads are clear and the view is easier to see and observe. Its best to visit the country in the month of May, June and September. But the lowland around the capital city is slightly humid and hot than other parts of the country. In the winter, it is cold and freezing with snowfall.

6. Georgia Travel Tips

• Georgian currency is called Lari.
• Few people speak in English.
• Wine & dine the local way.
• Visit the Black Sea at Batumi.
• Try health spa.
• Visit Stalin’s hometown.
• Go hiking.
• Meet Mother Georgia.
• The lowest fare for a 90-minute ticket is 50 tetri.

7. Georgia Flight Connections (Flight to Tbilisi)

The Georgian airways flies between Batumi and Tblisi, and its major international airport is Tbilisi International Airport. There is a direct and indirect flight from India which flies to Georgia by Air Arabia from many of the metropolitan cities of India.

Destination: Tbilisi - Georgia
Pickup & Drop: Delhi International Airport
Mode of Travel (Flight Details): Fixed Departure for Tbilisi

Tbilisi Flight Connections:

• Air Arabia and Fly Dubai have flights to Tbilisi via Sharjah and Dubai respectively, from numerous airports in India.
• Air Astana has flights ex-Delhi via Almaty.
• Air Arabia and Fly Dubai have flights to Batumi ex-Delhi.

Frequency:

• Fly Dubai have daily flights from 8 ports.
• Air Arabia has flights to Tbilisi 3-4 times a week from 13 ports in India.

8. Georgia Tour FAQs

If you have any query about Georgia Tourism, Tourist Destinations, Attractions, Visa Process, and other tour related information then visit Frequently Asked Questions of Georgia.

Visa Information

Georgian Visa Information:

Georgian visa process takes 7 working days.

Contact for more details about Georgia Tourist Visa!