Visa and Entry for Indians
Getting into Georgia is straightforward for Indian students. Most travellers will need to apply for an e-Visa through the official government portal. The process is entirely online, costs around $20-$35 USD, and usually takes five to seven working days.
You'll need digital copies of your passport, a photograph, flight itineraries, hotel bookings, and proof of funds. Crucially, as of early 2026, all foreign visitors must have valid travel and health insurance. An important exception: if you hold a valid visa or residence permit from the USA, UK, Schengen countries, or GCC nations, you may be able to enter Georgia visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check the latest rules on the official e-visa website before you book.
Budgeting Your Trip in Lari and Rupees
Georgia is famously affordable, making it perfect for a student backpacking trip. A realistic daily budget can be between $40-$60 USD (approx. ₹3,300-₹5,000), covering a dorm bed, local food, and transport. The local currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL), which is roughly equivalent to ₹37. A bed in a good hostel like Fabrika or Envoy Hostel in Tbilisi can cost between $8-$15 USD (approx. 22-40 GEL). A hearty meal of Khinkali (dumplings) or Khachapuri (cheese bread) might only set you back 15-25 GEL. Intercity travel is also cheap; a marshrutka (minibus) from Tbilisi to Kazbegi costs around 15-20 GEL.
First Stop: The Streets of Tbilisi
Tbilisi, the capital, is a captivating blend of old and new. Start by getting lost in the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where you can see the historic Narikala Fortress overlooking the city. For incredible views, take the Rike-Narikala cable car for just 2.5 GEL. Don't miss the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater's quirky clock tower and the modern Bridge of Peace. Many of the city's main attractions, including the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Dry Bridge Flea Market, are free to explore. For a uniquely Tbilisi experience, consider a budget-friendly visit to one of the ancient sulfur baths. Georgia is also known for its safety, with low crime rates, making it comfortable for solo and group travellers.
The Journey to the Kazbegi Peaks
The trip from Tbilisi to the Caucasus Mountains is an adventure in itself. The most common and cheapest way to get to Stepantsminda (the main town in the Kazbegi region) is by marshrutka from Didube bus station in Tbilisi. The journey takes about three to four hours along the scenic Georgian Military Highway, a route filled with stunning viewpoints like the Ananuri Fortress and the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument near Gudauri. Shared taxis are another option, offering more comfort and the flexibility to stop for photos, though at a slightly higher price.
Hiking to Gergeti Trinity Church
The main event in Kazbegi is the iconic hike up to Gergeti Trinity Church, perched at an altitude of 2,170 meters with the majestic Mount Kazbek as its backdrop. The hike from Stepantsminda is about 7 kilometres round trip and moderately difficult, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to ascend. The trail is steep but rewarding, winding through forests and meadows. For those not keen on hiking, local 4x4 drivers offer return trips for about 25-30 GEL per person. Remember to dress modestly when visiting the 14th-century church. For more adventurous hikers, the trail continues from the church towards the Gergeti Glacier, a challenging full-day trek.
A Taste of Georgia: Food for the Indian Palate
Georgian cuisine is a highlight, and it's surprisingly friendly for vegetarians. Thanks to Orthodox Christian fasting traditions, there are many naturally plant-based dishes. Must-try vegetarian items include Pkhali (vegetable pâtés with walnuts), Lobio (a hearty kidney bean stew), and Badrijani Nigvzit (eggplant rolls with walnut paste). Of course, you cannot leave without trying various forms of Khachapuri, especially the cheese-filled Imeretian version. For non-vegetarians, Khinkali (spiced meat dumplings) are a staple. Even the simple tomato and cucumber salad is elevated with walnut dressing or local sunflower oil. Most restaurants offer these delicious and filling options at very low prices.
