What are the highlights?

The Uplistsikhe rock-hewn town, the green Ateni gorge, and quiet foothill cycling — relaxed cultural and walking days from Tbilisi or Gori.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring to autumn; the cave towns and gorges are most comfortable outside the hottest weeks of midsummer.

Yes — Shida Kartli straddles the main east-west highway, less than an hour or two from Tbilisi, making it an easy day out.

Is it beginner-friendly?

Very — the walks and rides here are gentle beginner outings, ideal for families and first-timers.

Things to do in Shida Kartli

Central Shida Kartli spreads across the plains and foothills between Tbilisi and the Caucasus front range, a gentle land of cave towns, green gorges and orchard country threaded with deep history — including Uplistsikhe, a whole city hewn from the rock more than three thousand years ago.

Cave towns and quiet gorges

Explore the Uplistsikhe rock-hewn town, hike the Ateni and Kvishkheti gorges, and cycle the orchards and vineyards — easy, scenic days in eastern Georgia, suited to beginners. Open the Book here tab to see what is on.