Your Simple Gateway: The Georgian Visa
One of the biggest draws for Indian travellers is Georgia's straightforward visa policy. Most Indian passport holders can apply for an e-Visa through the official government portal (evisa.gov.ge). The process is entirely online, requires no embassy visits,
and typically takes about five to seven working days. The fee is approximately $20, plus a small service charge. Even better, if you hold a valid visa or residence permit from countries like the USA, UK, Schengen states, Canada, or Japan, you can enter Georgia visa-free for up to 90 days. This makes planning a spontaneous trip incredibly easy. A recent update, however, makes travel insurance mandatory for all visitors, so ensure you have a valid policy before you fly.
Crafting a Backpacker's Budget
Georgia is famously kind to the wallet, making it perfect for a budget trip. A backpacker can comfortably manage on approximately ₹2,500–₹4,000 (around $30-$50) per day. Accommodation in lively hostels, especially in cities like Tbilisi, costs between ₹700–₹1,500 for a dorm bed. Food is both a cultural highlight and incredibly affordable. You can feast on local delights like Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) for about 10-15 GEL and Khinkali (dumplings) for 1-2 GEL per piece. A hearty meal at a local eatery will rarely set you back more than ₹600–₹800. For transport, ride-sharing apps like Bolt offer cross-city rides in Tbilisi for as little as ₹150–₹200, and the metro is even cheaper.
Getting Around Georgia Cheaply
To truly explore the country's diverse landscapes, you'll need to travel between cities. The most popular and budget-friendly way to do this is by using marshrutkas, which are shared minivans that run on fixed routes. A trip from the capital, Tbilisi, to the stunning mountain town of Kazbegi, for instance, costs only around 10-15 GEL. These vans are a fantastic way to travel like a local and meet other travellers. While not as luxurious as private cars, they are efficient and connect all major towns and attractions. For longer distances, there are also affordable train services, which can be a comfortable alternative.
A Backpacker-Friendly Itinerary
For a classic week-long trip, start in Tbilisi, the vibrant capital. Spend two to three days exploring its charming Old Town, historic sulfur baths, and the Narikala Fortress. From Tbilisi, take a day trip or an overnight journey up the scenic Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi. Here, you can hike to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, set against the backdrop of the majestic Caucasus Mountains. Another popular leg is a visit to the Kakheti region, Georgia's wine country. Even on a budget, you can visit local wineries for tastings. A shorter, half-day trip to the ancient capital of Mtskheta is also highly recommended.
Essential Tips for Indian Travellers
To make your trip smooth, keep a few things in mind. The local currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). While cards are accepted in cities, it's wise to carry cash, especially in rural areas. English is commonly spoken in tourist hubs, but learning a few Georgian words like "Gamarjoba" (Hello) will be appreciated. Local SIM cards are inexpensive and can be purchased at the airport for easy connectivity. Finally, the best times to visit on a budget are the shoulder seasons—spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October)—when the weather is pleasant and prices are lower than the summer peak.
