Visa and Flights
Getting to Georgia is straightforward for Indian passport holders. You can apply for an e-visa online, which typically costs around $20 USD plus service fees. The process is generally quick, taking about five to seven working days. However, if you hold a valid
visa or residence permit from countries like the USA, UK, or Schengen states, you may be able to enter visa-free for a limited period. Always check the latest requirements before booking. Round-trip flights from major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai to Tbilisi can range from ₹35,000 to ₹55,000, depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Booking during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-June) or autumn (September-October) often yields the best prices and pleasant weather.
Accommodation on a Budget
Georgia offers a fantastic range of affordable accommodation. In Tbilisi, a bed in a well-rated hostel dorm costs between $8 and $15 USD (approx. ₹650-₹1,250) per night. Areas like Avlabari and Saburtalo are great for finding budget stays with good metro connectivity. In Kazbegi and Signagi, expect to rely on guesthouses, which are often family-run and provide an an authentic experience. A private room in a guesthouse can range from $30 to $50 USD (approx. ₹2,500-₹4,100), sometimes including a hearty, home-cooked breakfast. Booking in advance is wise, especially during peak season.
Getting Around Georgia
Navigating Georgia is cheap and efficient. For travel between cities, the marshrutka (shared minibus) is your best friend. The journey from Tbilisi to Kazbegi costs around 20 GEL (approx. ₹600) and takes about 3-4 hours. The trip from Tbilisi to Signagi is shorter, taking about 2 hours and costing around 15 GEL (approx. ₹450). These vans leave from major bus stations like Didube and Samgori in Tbilisi when they are full. Within Tbilisi, the metro is incredibly efficient, with rides costing only 1 GEL. You'll need to buy a Metromoney card. For more convenience, ride-sharing apps like Bolt are widely used and much cheaper than hailing a taxi on the street; a trip across the city rarely exceeds 5-10 GEL (approx. ₹150-₹300).
Food and Daily Expenses
Georgian food is a highlight and remarkably affordable. A daily food budget of 800-1500 INR is very realistic for a backpacker. You can feast on local delicacies without breaking the bank. A piece of Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) costs between 10-15 GEL, while Khinkali (dumplings) are priced per piece, usually around 1-2 GEL each. A satisfying meal at a local eatery can cost between 20-35 GEL (approx. ₹600-₹1050). The local currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). While credit cards are accepted in many city establishments, it's essential to carry cash, especially for marshrutkas, guesthouses, and markets.
Sightseeing in Tbilisi, Kazbegi, and Signagi
Many of Georgia's best experiences are free. In Tbilisi, you can wander the charming streets of the Old Town, admire the views from Narikala Fortress (the cable car ride up is cheap), and see the Holy Trinity Cathedral at no cost. In Kazbegi, the main event is the stunning hike up to the Gergeti Trinity Church, which is free to enter. The views of Mount Kazbek are your reward. Alternatively, a shared taxi up the hill costs about 15-20 GEL per person. Signagi, the 'City of Love', is known for its well-preserved city walls, which you can walk along for free while enjoying panoramic views of the Alazani Valley. The town itself, with its cobblestone streets and colourful houses, is a joy to explore on foot.
Sample Daily Budget Breakdown
For a shoestring backpacker, a realistic daily budget would be around 80-120 GEL (approx. ₹2,400-₹3,600) per person. This would cover a hostel bed (approx. 30-40 GEL), three budget-friendly meals (approx. 30-40 GEL), and local transport or a small activity (approx. 20-40 GEL). This estimate does not include inter-city travel, major tours, or significant entrance fees. A comfortable but still budget-conscious traveller might spend closer to 150 GEL (approx. ₹4,500) per day, allowing for a private room in a guesthouse, a mix of local eateries and cafes, and more flexibility with activities.
