Before You Go: Budget & Basics
An 8-day trip can be surprisingly affordable. A backpacker can manage on about $30-45 per day. This covers a dorm bed in a hostel ($10-15), meals from local bakeries and cafes ($10-15), and transport using local minibuses, or 'marshrutkas'. For Indian
travellers, Georgia requires a visa, which should be applied for in advance, as visa-on-arrival is not an option. Armenia, however, may offer visa on arrival to Indian citizens holding valid visas or residence permits from countries like the US, UK, or EU/Schengen members. Always check the latest visa rules before booking. The currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). Ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Yandex Go are significantly cheaper than street taxis for getting around cities.
The Route: A Deep Dive into Georgia
While covering multiple Caucasus countries in eight days is technically possible, it can feel rushed. To truly have an 'action-packed' trip, this itinerary focuses solely on Georgia. It offers a perfect mix of city life, breathtaking mountains, and rich culture without spending half your time in transit. This route allows you to immerse yourself in one country and explore it properly.
Days 1-2: Tbilisi’s Old World Charm
Arrive in Tbilisi, Georgia’s captivating capital. Settle into your hostel; options like Fabrika are not just a place to sleep but a cultural hub. Spend your first two days exploring the Old Town’s cobblestone streets. Take the cable car up to Narikala Fortress for sunset views, a ride that costs just a couple of Lari. Wander through the quirky Fabrika district, a former Soviet sewing factory turned into a vibrant space with cafes and street art. For food, you're in for a treat. A meal of khinkali (dumplings) or khachapuri (cheese bread) from a local restaurant is delicious and budget-friendly, often costing less than $15 for a full meal with drinks.
Days 3-4: The Majestic Georgian Military Highway
On day three, head to the mountains. Go to the Didube bus station in Tbilisi and catch a marshrutka to Stepantsminda (also known as Kazbegi). The three-hour journey itself is an adventure, taking you along the stunning Georgian Military Highway. The fare is typically around 15 GEL. Stepantsminda is the base for exploring the Caucasus Mountains. Check into a guesthouse, which often costs $25-50 and might include a hearty home-cooked breakfast and dinner. The main event here is the hike up to Gergeti Trinity Church, the iconic 14th-century church set against the backdrop of Mount Kazbek. The hike is free and offers million-dollar views.
Day 5: Mountain Adventures and Return to Tbilisi
Wake up to crisp mountain air and enjoy a final Georgian mountain breakfast. Depending on your energy levels, you could take a short, local hike or simply soak in the dramatic scenery. In the early afternoon, catch a marshrutka back to Tbilisi. Arriving in the evening, you can check back into your hostel. For dinner, explore a different neighbourhood or revisit a favourite cheap eat. This is a good time to try a local wine bar, as Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Even on a budget, you can enjoy excellent local wine.
Days 6-7: Mtskheta and Kakheti Wine Region
Dedicate these two days to exploring the regions around Tbilisi. On day six, take a short marshrutka ride to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the impressive Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery. On day seven, consider a day trip to the Kakheti wine region. While organised tours can be pricey, you can take a marshrutka to the charming town of Sighnaghi. A day trip to a winery might cost around $40, but simply exploring the town and enjoying the views is a great free alternative. Return to Tbilisi each evening.
Day 8: Last Souvenirs and Departure
Spend your final morning in Tbilisi doing some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Dezerter Bazaar or just enjoying a final coffee in a cool cafe. Reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences of the past week. Depending on your flight schedule, you can store your luggage at your hostel after checking out. Head to the airport via a pre-booked Bolt taxi for a reliable and affordable end to your journey.
