Uncover the eerie Soviet past of Chiatura on a full-day trip. Explore abandoned mines, decaying Soviet architecture, and ride in rusty cable cars. Visit ancient holy sites in the Imereti region for a contrasting experience.
- Cableways Chiatura - Although the old cable cars are no longer in operation, the weathered cabins and brutalist stations remain a fascinating sight and a great photo opportunity. Visit some of the most intriguing and unique cable car stations before they are lost forever.
- Katskhi Pillar - A truly unique site, this monastery is perched atop a massive rock pillar. To this day, many legends surround the area, drawing pilgrims from all over Georgia.
- Monastery Mgvimevi - This monastery is a rare blend of nature and architecture. Built within a cave during the late Middle Ages, it stands out like an alien structure amidst the concrete socialist surroundings.
- Memorial History of Georgia - A must-see for enthusiasts of Soviet architecture, this colossal monument overlooking the concrete suburbs is the perfect place to conclude the tour.
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- Bottled water included
- Complimentary on-board WiFi
- Ideal for photography enthusiasts
- Tour Katskhi Pillar with its unique hilltop church
- Exclusive access to Mgvimevi Monastery, a church within a cave
- Discover Chiatura’s historic cable cars and ghostly abandoned areas
- Guided by a local expert for an insider’s experience
- Lunch (we can recommend our favorite spots)
- Gratuities
Embark on a full day journey to the eerie town of Chiatura in Georgia, far from the typical tourist trails. Once a thriving mining hub with the most cable cars in the world, it now has the appearance of a ghost town with its deserted mines, vacant apartments and decaying Soviet architecture.
Time appears frozen, allowing visitors to ride in one of the remaining rusty cable cars, soak in the panoramic views from the semi-deserted concrete settlements on the cliffs, and spot an occasional macabre homage to Stalin.
Also included in our itinerary is a visit to the countryside of the Imereti region, offering a contrasting view to the industrial ruins of Chiatura. Don’t miss the ancient holy pillar of Katskhi, with its quaint church perched on top, or the rock-carved Mgvimevi convent adorned with XIV-century frescoes.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Please note, that as of the moment, all old cable cars have been suspended for safety reasons, but you can still see them
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.