The Georgian Allure
Nestled at the intersection of Europe and Asia, Georgia has emerged as a top destination for backpackers, and for good reason. Imagine exploring the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi's Old Town, hiking to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church with the Caucasus
Mountains as your backdrop, and indulging in cheese-filled khachapuri after a day of adventure. The country offers an incredible blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and a world-renowned culinary and wine scene. For Indian travellers, the appeal is magnified by its relative affordability and direct flight options, making it a perfect choice for an international trip that feels a world away yet is surprisingly easy to reach.
Your Gateway: The E-Visa
For Indian passport holders, the first step to Georgia is securing a visa, and the e-visa system makes it remarkably simple. There is no visa on arrival for Indians, so you must apply in advance. The e-visa is processed entirely online through the official government portal, evisa.gov.ge. This is the only official site, so be wary of third-party websites that may charge extra fees. The standard e-visa for tourists allows for a multiple-entry stay of up to 30 days within a 120-day validity period, which is perfect for a backpacking adventure. The process does not require any embassy visits or physical paperwork.
Applying for Your E-Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide
Planning ahead is key. The typical processing time is about five working days, so apply at least a week or two before your intended travel dates. To apply, you will need clear digital copies of a few key documents. These include your passport's biographical page (valid for at least six months), a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation (hotel or hostel bookings), a round-trip flight itinerary, travel insurance covering your stay, and proof of sufficient funds like recent bank statements. Visit evisa.gov.ge, select India as your country, fill in the application form accurately, upload your documents, and pay the fee, which is around $20 USD plus a small service charge. Once approved, the e-visa will be delivered to your email. Simply print it out or keep a digital copy on your phone to present upon arrival.
Crafting Your Backpacking Budget
Georgia is famously budget-friendly. Flights will be your biggest initial expense, with direct flights from Delhi to Tbilisi available. Booking 2-3 months in advance can land you a round-trip ticket for between ₹32,000 and ₹42,000. Once there, costs are low. A bed in a quality hostel in Tbilisi can be as cheap as ₹800–₹1,500 per night. Food is both a cultural highlight and incredibly affordable. You can feast on khinkali (dumplings) for about ₹60 a piece or grab a filling khachapuri (cheese bread) for around ₹300. For a week-long backpacking trip, a budget of ₹60,000 to ₹75,000 per person, including flights, is a realistic target if you stay in hostels and eat locally.
A Classic Backpacking Itinerary
For a first-time visitor, a classic route offers the perfect mix of city and nature. Start with 2-3 days in the capital, Tbilisi. Explore its historic Old Town, ride the cable car to Narikala Fortress, and relax in the sulfur baths. From Tbilisi, take a day trip to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, head north into the Caucasus Mountains. A three-hour marshrutka (shared minibus) ride will take you to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda). Spend 2-3 days here hiking, with the highlight being the trek or 4x4 ride up to the Gergeti Trinity Church. If you have more time, consider heading west to the vibrant Black Sea city of Batumi or the historical city of Kutaisi.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey
Getting around Georgia is easy with the marshrutka network, which is both cheap and extensive. For city transport, apps like Bolt are widely used and very affordable. Pick up a local SIM card at the airport for easy connectivity; you can get a package with ample data for a low price. The local currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). While credit cards are accepted in cities, it's wise to carry cash, especially in mountain regions. Finally, learn a few words of Georgian. 'Gamarjoba' (hello) and 'madloba' (thank you) will be met with warm smiles and go a long way in this incredibly hospitable country.
