E-Visa Essentials for Indian Travellers
For Indian passport holders, getting into Georgia is a straightforward digital process. The most common route is the e-Visa, which you can apply for on the official government portal (evisa.gov.ge). The process is entirely online, so there is no need
to visit an embassy. The standard tourist e-Visa typically costs around $20 USD plus service fees and allows for a stay of up to 30 days within a 120-day window. Processing usually takes about five working days. You will need to upload several documents, including a passport scan, a recent photograph, proof of accommodation, return flight tickets, travel insurance, and proof of sufficient funds like a 3-month bank statement. Since January 2026, travel and health insurance covering at least 30,000 GEL (Georgian Lari) has become mandatory. Alternatively, Indian citizens holding a valid visa or residence permit from countries like the USA, UK, or Schengen states can often enter Georgia visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check the official portal for the latest requirements before applying.
Feast Like a Local for Less
Georgian cuisine is a major highlight, and thankfully, the most authentic food is also the most affordable. A daily food budget of just $15-$25 (around ₹1250-₹2100) will allow you to eat very well. The keys to budget dining are Khachapuri and Khinkali. A filling Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) from a local bakery can cost as little as 3-8 GEL, while a single Khinkali (soup dumpling) is often priced between 1.5-2.5 GEL. A meal of 5-8 dumplings is more than enough for one person and will only set you back about 10-15 GEL (₹300-₹450). For the freshest and cheapest experience, look for small neighbourhood bakeries (called 'tone'), local markets, and small restaurants known as 'dukhans'. Street food like Lobiani (bean-stuffed bread) is another delicious and cheap option, often costing under 3 GEL. By avoiding the main tourist traps and eating where the locals do, you’ll not only save money but also get a true taste of Georgia.
Finding Your Cozy and Cheap Stay
Accommodation in Georgia offers incredible value, with options to suit every budget. For the most affordable stays, hostels are a great choice, with a dorm bed in major cities like Tbilisi costing between $8-$15 (approx. ₹650-₹1250) per night. For a more local experience, consider family-run guesthouses. A private room in a guesthouse typically ranges from $25-$45 (approx. ₹2100-₹3750) and often provides an opportunity to interact with a Georgian family. Many guesthouses, especially in regions like Svaneti or Kakheti, offer home-cooked breakfasts and dinners for an extra fee of around 20-50 GEL per meal, which can be both delicious and cost-effective. While cities like Tbilisi and Batumi have slightly higher prices, they still remain far cheaper than most European destinations. Booking platforms are useful, but sometimes the best deals are found by simply walking into guesthouses in less tourist-heavy areas.
Getting Around Without Breaking the Bank
Navigating Georgia is both easy and cheap, thanks to its efficient network of public transport. In cities like Tbilisi, the metro and local buses are the most economical way to travel, with a single ride costing just 1 GEL. For convenience, ride-hailing apps like Bolt are widely used and very affordable for short trips, with many inner-city rides costing between 5-12 GEL. For travelling between cities, the 'marshrutka' (shared minibus) is the go-to option for most locals and budget travellers. These vans connect all major towns and villages, with fares for common routes typically ranging from 10-35 GEL. For longer distances, such as the journey from Tbilisi to Batumi, the train offers a more comfortable and scenic alternative, with tickets also being reasonably priced. A little planning can help you navigate the country comfortably for just a few dollars a day.
