Visas, Flights, and First Steps
Getting to Georgia is simpler than you think. As of 2026, Indian passport holders can apply for an e-Visa online via the official portal. The process is digital, with no embassy visits required for a standard tourist visa. If you hold a valid visa or residence
permit from countries like the USA, UK, or any Schengen nation, you may be able to enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Direct flights to Tbilisi are available from Delhi, but budget-conscious backpackers should look for connecting flights via hubs like Sharjah or Abu Dhabi, which can significantly lower costs. Remember, travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign tourists as of January 2026, so secure a policy before you fly.
Your Budget in Lari and Rupees
Georgia is incredibly affordable, making it a backpacker's paradise. The local currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). As a rough guide, 1 GEL is approximately 25-30 INR, but always check the current exchange rate. A frugal backpacker can comfortably manage on a daily budget of ₹2,500–₹3,500 (about 85-115 GEL). This would cover a dorm bed in a hostel (₹800–₹1,500), meals from local bakeries and small eateries, and public transport. A mid-range budget of ₹5,000–₹7,000 per day allows for private rooms in guesthouses, meals at sit-down restaurants, and occasional taxi rides using apps like Bolt, which are very cheap in Tbilisi.
Tbilisi: A Capital of Contrasts
Tbilisi will capture your heart with its blend of old and new. The best way to explore is on foot. Start by getting lost in the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where you'll find colourful balconies and historic churches—all for free. For a panoramic view of the city, take the cable car up to Narikala Fortress; the ride itself is a budget-friendly thrill. Don't miss the Sulphur Baths district (Abanotubani), where you can admire the unique dome-shaped roofs. While a private bath can be a splurge, simply walking through the area is an experience. For transport, a MetroMoney card costs 2 GEL and each ride on the metro or bus is just 1 GEL, with free transfers for 90 minutes.
The Journey to Kazbegi's Peaks
The road from Tbilisi to the Caucasus mountains is as spectacular as the destination itself. The most budget-friendly way to get to Kazbegi (also known as Stepantsminda) is by taking a 'marshrutka' (shared minibus) from Didube Bus Station in Tbilisi. The journey takes about three to four hours and costs around 20 GEL (approximately ₹500-₹600). These vans are a local experience, zipping along the famed Georgian Military Highway. You’ll pass the turquoise Zhinvali Reservoir and the 17th-century Ananuri Fortress, a perfect photo stop. While private taxis offer more comfort and sightseeing flexibility, the marshrutka is the authentic backpacker choice.
Conquering the Caucasus on a Budget
Once in Kazbegi, the main attraction is the breathtaking Gergeti Trinity Church, perched on a hill with the magnificent Mount Kazbek as its backdrop. The best and cheapest way to reach it is by hiking. The trek takes about 90 minutes to two hours each way and rewards you with unparalleled views. There are no entrance fees for the church or the surrounding national park trails. Accommodation here is dominated by family-run guesthouses, which offer incredible value. Many guesthouses provide home-cooked breakfast and dinner for a small extra charge, which is a great way to sample local food and keep costs down. A dorm bed can be found for as little as $12, while private rooms are also affordable.
Food for the Indian Backpacker
Georgian cuisine is delicious and very welcoming to vegetarians. You must try Khachapuri, a cheese-stuffed bread that comes in various regional styles, and Lobiani, a similar bread filled with a spiced bean paste. Another staple is Pkhali, a paste made from minced vegetables (like spinach or beetroot) mixed with walnut sauce. For non-vegetarians, Khinkali (spiced meat dumplings) are a must. Most Georgian dishes are mildly spiced. For those craving familiar flavours, Tbilisi has a growing number of Indian restaurants serving everything from dal makhani to dosas.
