Georgia
factsheet
Ancient Caucasus kingdom where mountains meet wine valleys, monasteries crown hilltops, and wine-drinking traditions span 8,000 years.
The Essentials
Best Time
May-Oct, Mar-Apr
Currency
GEL (₾)
Climate
Temperate-Subtropical
Time Zone
UTC+4 (GET)
Language
Georgian
Visa
E-Visa (Indians)
Capital
Tbilisi
Population
3.8M
Calling Code
+995
Power Plug
Type C & F (220V)
Tipping
10% appreciated, not mandatory
Emergency
112
History & Heritage
Ancient Kingdoms, Wine Legacy, and Eastern Orthodox Heritage
Georgia – one of the most popular travel destinations in the world has a history that dates back 3,000 years. As the cradle of wine-making, this Caucasian jewel continues to preserve its 8,000 years old Qvevri traditions along with its native grape varieties such as Saperavi. With its past comprising kingdoms of Colchis and Iberia and its Golden Era marked by Queen Tamar, this country's roots lie in its Eastern Orthodox religious background as well as Upper Svaneti region. The culture, alphabet and renowned Georgian hospitality have endured through the ages amidst various empires.
Ancient Kingdoms (8th Century BC - 4th Century AD)
The Kingdom of Colchis (western Georgia) and Kingdom of Iberia (eastern Georgia) emerged as major trading hubs. Known as the land of the Golden Fleece in Greek mythology, Georgia traded gold, wine, and silks with Greeks, Persians, and Romans. The Silk Road trade enriched these early kingdoms.
Christianization & Kush the Apostle (4th Century AD 330-338)
Saint Nino, a Greek missionary, arrived in Georgia and converted the kingdom to Christianity. This date (330 AD) marks Georgia's conversion to Christianity, making it one of the earliest Christianized nations. The Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church became central to national identity.
Bagrationi Dynasty & Golden Age (888-1213)
King David the Builder (1089-1125) unified Georgia and defeated the Seljuk Turks, expanding Georgian territory to its greatest extent. His great-granddaughter, Queen Tamar the Great (1184-1213), expanded Georgia into an empire rivaling European powers, reaching from the Caucasus to Mesopotamia. This era produced magnificent architecture and literature.
Decline & Foreign Rule (1243-1918)
Mongol invasions (1243), followed by Tamerlane's devastation (1386-1403), fragmented Georgia into smaller kingdoms. By the 17th century, Georgia was divided between Ottoman and Persian influence. The 1795 Russo-Turkish War began Russian encroachment. By 1801, Georgia became part of the Russian Empire, losing sovereignty for 119 years.
Independence & Soviet Era (1918-1991)
Georgia declared independence in 1918 and became a brief Democratic Republic (1918-1921). However, Soviet forces incorporated Georgia into the USSR in 1921. For 70 years, Georgia remained a Soviet Socialist Republic under Moscow's control until the Soviet collapse.
Modern Independence (1991-Present)
On April 9, 1991, Georgia declared independence from the Soviet Union. The Rose Revolution (2003) and ongoing European integration marked Georgia's westward trajectory. Despite regional conflicts, Georgia developed into a vibrant modern nation: winemaker, democratic reformer, tourist destination, and cultural bridge between East and West.
Spotlight: Gergeti Trinity Church
Perched on a misty hilltop at 2,170 meters near Mount Kazbek, Gergeti Trinity Church is Georgia's most iconic religious monument. Built in the 14th century, this small stone church commands panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains. A pilgrimage destination and architectural marvel, it symbolizes Georgian resilience, faith, and harmonious integration with nature.
Independence
April 9, 1991
From Soviet Union
Christianization
330 AD
One of earliest Christian nations
Wine Culture
8,000 years
World's oldest wine-producing region
Capital
Tbilisi
Named 'City of Warm Spring'
Climate & Time
Time Zone
Standard
GET (UTC+4)
Difference
3 hours 30 minutes behind IST (India Standard Time)
🎯 Best Months
May, June, September, October (also March-April spring)
Climate
The climate in Georgia varies significantly by region, offering a diverse range of weather conditions from coastal areas to mountain peaks.
Spring (გაზაფხული)
Mar – May
8–20°C
Wildflowers bloom. Easter celebrations. Moderate rainfall in April. Perfect for hiking. Wine harvest begins late May. Tbilisi averages 15°C.
Summer (ზაფხული)
Jun – Aug
20–30°C
Long daylight. Hot, dry in lowlands; cool in mountains. Beach season on Black Sea. Mountain trekking ideal. Batumi coastal paradise. Tbilisi can reach 32°C.
Autumn (შემოდგომა)
Sep – Oct
12–23°C
Golden foliage. Grape harvest season. Clear skies. Fewer tourists. Wine region festivals. Perfect sightseeing weather. Tbilisi averages 18°C. Rain increases late October.
Winter (ზამთარი)
Nov – Feb
-5–10°C (Mountains), 0–10°C (Lowlands)
Snow in Caucasus mountains. Ski season (Gudauri). Mild in coastal areas. Cold in Tbilisi (0-8°C). Rainy in west (Batumi). Cozy indoors experience. Budget-friendly hotels.
Seasonal Packing List
Language Guide
Official Language
Georgian (ქართული - Kartuli)
Georgian is a South Caucasian (Kartvelian) language spoken by ~4 million people. It is entirely unique—unrelated to Indo-European or Turkic languages. The Georgian script, dating to 5th century AD, is UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage. English proficiency is moderate (40-50% among younger Georgians). Russian widely understood by older generations. Many Georgians speak Russian and English.
Local Signage
Essential Phrases
Hello
სალამი (Salami)
Thank you
გმადლობთ (Gmadlobt)
Goodbye
კარგი (Kargi) / ნახვამდის (Nakhvamidis)
Yes / No
კი (Ki) / არა (Ara)
Please
გთხოვთ (Gtkhov't)
Excuse me
ბოდიში (Bodishi)
How much?
რამდენი ღირს? (Ramdeni Ghirs?)
Where is...?
სად არის...? (Sad Aris?)
Currency & Money
Official Currency
Georgian Lari
₾ (GEL)
Exchange Rates
Denominations
Banknotes
1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 GEL
Coins
1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 Tetri; 1, 2 GEL
Culture & Vibes
Warm Georgian Hospitality with Strong Family Values
"Georgian culture is built on profound hospitality—the phrase 'Qonaq gele'ndze, berakat ge'lendze' ('When a guest arrives, blessing arrives') defines the national character. Georgians are warm, hospitable, wine-loving people deeply connected to family, food, and celebration. Modern Georgia balances ancient Orthodox traditions with secular progressive values. Tamada (toasting tradition) and communal feasting are central to social life."
Greetings
Handshakes common; good eye contact important. Close friends may embrace. 'Salami' (hello) used casually. Respect for elders shown by standing and greeting first.
Religious Sites
Georgia is predominantly Eastern Orthodox (65%). Dress modestly in churches/monasteries (cover shoulders, knees). Remove shoes if instructed. Photography sometimes restricted. Respectful silence expected.
Wine & Toasting Culture
Wine is sacred. The Tamada (toastmaster) presides over formal toasts. Engage respectfully in toasting traditions. Red wine especially valued for its symbolism of blood and covenant.
Family & Community
Family is paramount. Elders receive utmost respect. Communal meals are sacred. Hospitality to guests is non-negotiable. Extended families often live in close proximity.
Essential Dos
- • Accept offered food and drink graciously (refusing is insulting)
- • Participate in toasting traditions respectfully
- • Compliment Georgian hospitality, food, and wine
- • Remove shoes when entering homes; hosts provide slippers
- • Ask before photographing people or religious sites
- • Learn basic Georgian phrases; effort is deeply appreciated
- • Embrace communal dining and feasting culture
- • Respect family-centered social structure
Essential Don'ts
- • Don't refuse offered wine without valid reason (wine is central to culture)
- • Don't discuss political sensitivities (South Ossetia, Abkhazia, Russia)
- • Don't be overly loud or rude in public (quiet respect valued)
- • Don't photograph religious ceremonies without permission
- • Don't show disrespect toward family or elders
- • Don't criticize Georgian government in public
- • Don't waste bread or food (viewed as disrespectful)
- • Don't point fingers or feet at people (considered rude)
Specific Etiquette
Gifting Etiquette
Wrap gifts nicely. Avoid odd numbers (associated with funerals in some contexts). Good gifts: chocolates, wine, cognac, flowers (odd numbers). Open gifts in front of giver. Don't give excessively valuable gifts (implies debt or impropriety).
Dining Etiquette
Wait for host to begin. Bread placed on table (never on plate). Finish food to show appreciation. Use fork and knife (not hands unless culturally appropriate). Toasting before eating is protocol. Compliment cook generously. Service charge often included (5-10%); additional tip appreciated.
Business Etiquette
Formal at first meetings. Business cards exchanged respectfully. Punctuality increasingly valued. Relationships built over time; patience appreciated. Hierarchies respected but relatively informal. First-name basis common once rapport established.
Ancient Recipes, Wine Pairing, and Caucasian Flavors
Georgian cuisine combines fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and bold flavors reflecting millennia of Mediterranean, Persian, and Caucasian influences. Food is celebration, art form, and spiritual practice. Khachapuri (cheese bread) and khinkali (soup dumplings) are national dishes. Georgian meals are communal affairs where wine flows, toasts endless, and hospitality manifests through abundance.
Khachapuri (Cheese Bread)
Khinkali (Soup Dumplings)
Mtsvadi (Grilled Meat)
Pkhali (Herb & Vegetable Pâté)
Lobio (Bean Stew)
Shkmeruli (Chicken in Cream Sauce)
Chakapuli (Herb Soup)
Where to Eat
Traditional Georgian Restaurants (Saparua)
Authentic cuisine, often family-run. €5-15 per person. Found everywhere. Warm, homey atmosphere.
Cafés (Kafe)
Casual dining, local food, coffee, snacks. €3-8. Social gathering places. Popular with locals.
Street Food Stalls (Mtsvadi Stands)
Grilled meats, khachapuri, khinkali. €2-5. Authentic, quick, affordable. Found throughout cities.
Wine Bars & Wine Shops (Gazapuri)
Georgian wine-focused dining. Wine pairings with local dishes. €10-30+. Growing trend in cities.
Bazaars & Markets (Bazar)
Fresh produce, bakeries, street food. €3-8. Experience local life. Morning best for selection.
Dining Etiquette
- •Meal times: Breakfast 7-9 AM, Lunch 12-2 PM, Dinner 7-10 PM
- •Restaurants open 11 AM-midnight; cafes earlier
- •Service charge often included (5-10%); additional tip (2-5 GEL) appreciated
- •Communal dining (sharing plates) is common and encouraged
- •Wine is integral to meals; toasting before eating expected
- •Bread (puri) sacred—never waste, place upside down, or step on
- •Vegetarian/vegan options increasingly available in cities
- •Alcohol widely available; Georgian wine culture very strong
Signature Drinks
Shop & Bring Home
Georgia offers unique shopping: world-famous wines from ancient vineyards, traditional crafts from mountain villages, hand-woven carpets, and unique souvenirs. Shopping blends ancient bazaar traditions with modern malls. Georgian wine is the ultimate souvenir—8,000 years of tradition in every bottle.
Wine & Spirits
- Georgian Qvevri Wine (Orange/Red/White)
- Regional Wines (Saperavi, Rkatsiteli)
- Cognac & Brandies
- Chacha (Grape Spirit)
- Wine Accessories
Carpets & Textiles
- Hand-woven Caucasian Carpets
- Traditional Kilims
- Embroidered Fabrics
- Wool Products
- Traditional Textiles
Crafts & Souvenirs
- Wooden Carvings
- Pottery & Ceramics
- Icons (Religious art)
- Khachapuri Molds
- Traditional Musical Instruments
Food & Spices
- Saffron & Local Spices
- Dried Herbs (Tarragon)
- Georgian Honey & Jam
- Nuts & Dried Fruits
- Tkemali Sauce & Condiments
Where to Shop (Local Hubs)
Metekhi Square & Old Town (Tbilisi)
Historic & Tourist Shopping
"Souvenir shops, galleries, religious crafts. Cobbled streets lined with artisans. Picturesque but touristy prices; negotiate."
Shardeni Street (Tbilisi)
Modern Shopping
"Designer boutiques, international brands, Georgian designers. Modern architecture. Fixed prices."
Dezerter's Market (Desert's Bazar, Tbilisi)
Bazaar & Local Goods
"Genuine local experience. Antiques, vintage, crafts, produce. Bargaining expected. Chaotic, authentic."
Kakheti Wine Shops (Sighnaghi, Telavi)
Regional Wine & Crafts
"Winery direct sales. Regional wines at producer prices. Local crafts. Wine education and tastings."
Mountain Village Bazaars (Kazbegi, Mestia)
Authentic Crafts
"Handmade souvenirs, textiles, carvings direct from artisans. Authentic products. Support local communities."
On the Move
Airport
TBS
13 km southeast; 15-40 min to center
Taxi Apps
Bolt/Yandex
Affordable, safe, professional
Inter-city
Minibuses & Marshrutka
Kakheti wine region, Kazbegi, Black Sea
Airport Arrival
Shota Rustaveli International Airport (TBS) located 13 km southeast of Tbilisi city center. Journey: 40 minutes by bus, 15 minutes by taxi.
Travel Tech
Travel Tips
Buy Metropoliteni Card at metro stations; reusable and economical
Minibuses (Marshrutka) are chaotic but authentic; hail on street
Bolt app more reliable than white taxis; always use apps if possible
Tbilisi metro operates until 12:30 AM; plan late nights accordingly
Mountain roads to Kazbegi scenic but winding; drive carefully
Book tours in advance for multi-day excursions (wine, hiking, Kakheti)
Buses and minibuses have fixed routes; walking short distances often better
Intercity Travel
Minibuses (Marshrutka)
Most common inter-city transport. Depart Central Station when full. Routes to Sighnaghi (1.5h), Kazbegi (3h), Ganja (5h), Batumi (6h). €2-8 depending on route.
Private Drivers/Tours
Arranged through hotels or tour agencies. Best for Kakheti wine region, Kazbegi, mountain tours. €40-100+ per day.
International Buses
Connections to Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey. Less frequent. €10-30 depending on route.
Car Rental
International license required. Roads good to excellent. €25-50 daily. Popular for North-South Georgia road trip.
BakıKart
Metro Money Card (Metropoliteni Card): Single journey 1 GEL (₾), Day ticket 2 GEL. Valid on metro, buses, minibuses.
Visa Entry
E-Visa for Indians (Most Common)
Georgian government offers online e-Visa for Indian nationals via evisa.gov.ge portal. Citizens can apply directly without visiting embassy. Process is fast, straightforward, and 100% online. Indians constitute Georgia's fastest-growing tourist market (40% growth in 2024-2025).
Visit official e-Visa portal (evisa.gov.ge)
Complete online application with personal and travel details
Upload scanned documents (passport, photo, travel plan)
Pay visa fee online (GEL 40-50) via credit/debit card
Receive decision within 5-10 working days by email
Print e-Visa or save digital copy on phone
Present e-Visa and passport at Georgian border/airport immigration
Registration
Penalty: Non-registration can result in fines (50-100 GEL) or deportation for longer stays
Entry Requirements
- • Valid passport (6+ months validity beyond departure date)
- • Passport-size color photo (digital copy, JPEG format)
- • Hotel booking confirmation or accommodation proof
- • Return airline ticket or proof of onward travel
- • Travel insurance (recommended but not mandatory)
- • Proof of financial means (sufficient funds for stay)
- • Travel itinerary and purpose of visit
- • Email address and valid contact information