Day Trip: David Gareja

★★★ David Gareja — Cave Monastery in the Semi-Desert

One of the most extraordinary places in Georgia lies 60 km southeast of Tbilisi, on the border with Azerbaijan: the David Gareja Cave Monastery. Founded in the 6th century by the Syrian monk David Garejeli, the complex includes over 5,000 rock-hewn cells, churches, and chapels spread across a barren mountain ridge in a surreal semi-desert landscape.

What to See

• Lavra Monastery: The main monastery at the foot of the mountain. Still inhabited by monks today, with a 6th-century church and rock-hewn cells. The atmosphere of seclusion is palpable.
• Udabno Caves: On the backside of the mountain ridge (20 min. ascent) are dozens of cave churches with unique frescoes from the 10th–13th centuries. Scenes from the life of Christ, painted with a color intensity that still impresses after 1,000 years. Many frescoes are unfortunately damaged by vandalism.
• The Landscape: The dry, barren semi-desert with its gentle hills is reminiscent of Central Asia or the Middle East — a total contrast to the green rest of Georgia. In spring, the steppe briefly blooms.

Getting There

There is no public transport to David Gareja. Options:

• Organized Tour: From Tbilisi, half-day (approx. 50–70 GEL per person), including transport and guide. Bookable through hostels and tour providers.
• Taxi/Driver: Round trip approx. 100–150 GEL (30–45€). Driver waits while you explore the complex (2–3 hours).
• Rental Car: The last 20 km are unpaved — doable with a regular car in dry weather, but slowly.

Free of charge. No admission. Bring water and sun protection — there is nothing on site! The ascent to the Udabno Caves is steep and strenuous in the heat. Best time: spring or autumn.