Tsalka Canyon Tour From Tbilisi With Poka Nunnery, Gorelovka and Asureti

Situated just a short drive from Tbilisi, Tsalka Canyon offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Georgia’s natural and cultural wonders. This private tour takes travelers on an immersive journey, from the serene Poka Nunnery to the charming village of Gorelovka, and the historical site of Asureti. But the real highlight is the breathtaking landscape – towering cliffs, shimmering lakes, and hidden waterfalls that leave a lasting impression. It’s an experience not to be missed for those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• The Tsalka Canyon Tour from Tbilisi includes visits to Poka Nunnery, Gorelovka, Asureti, and Manglisi Cathedral, with a focus on exploring the Tsalka Canyon.
• The tour features a glass bridge and surrounding lakes, as well as an Ethnographic Museum in Gorelovka and stunning waterfalls at Tsalka Canyon.
• The full-day private tour is priced from $197.50 per person, with moderate fitness required for a 30-minute hike to the canyon.
• The tour includes an air-conditioned private vehicle, bottled water, and is not wheelchair accessible due to the hiking requirement.
• Cultural etiquette guidelines, such as dress code and photography restrictions, are in place to respect local customs during the site visits.

Tour Overview

The Tsalka Canyon Tour from Tbilisi includes visits to Poka Nunnery, Gorelovka, Asureti, and Manglisi Cathedral.

Guests will explore Tsalka Canyon via a glass bridge and surrounding lakes like Tsalka, Paravani, Saghamo, and Madatapa.

Tour highlights include the Ethnographic Museum in Gorelovka, the former German colony of Asureti (Elizabettal), and stunning waterfalls at the Tsalka (Dashbashi) canyon complex.

This full-day private tour is priced from $197.50 per person, depending on group size.

The tour requires moderate fitness for a 30-minute hike to the canyon, which may be closed during bad weather due to height restrictions.

Tour Details

A full-day tour, the Tsalka Canyon Tour from Tbilisi is priced from $197.50 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size.

It’s a private tour, so only your group participates. Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before.

The tour includes an air-conditioned private vehicle and bottled water. However, it’s not wheelchair accessible, and moderate physical fitness is required for a 30-minute hike to the canyon.

The tour includes a private vehicle and water, but is not wheelchair-friendly and requires moderate fitness for a 30-minute hike to the canyon.

The tour is also subject to weather conditions, and there’s a height requirement of 1.2 m for the canyon.

Transportation and Accessibility

Includes a private, air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water to ensure a comfortable journey.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so moderate physical fitness is required for a 30-minute hike to the canyon.

Tsalka Canyon is closed during bad weather, and there’s a height requirement of 1.2 meters. This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all guests.

Visitors will explore the canyon’s stunning views and surrounding lakes, including Tsalka, Paravani, Saghamo, and Madatapa.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Cultural Etiquette

When visiting religious sites during the Tsalka Canyon tour, visitors should be mindful of the local cultural etiquette. This includes:

• Ladies are expected to wear head scarves and dresses that cover the shoulders and knees.

• Men should avoid wearing shorts and opt for longer trousers.

• Scarves and dresses are often available near the church entrances for visitors to borrow and adhere to the dress code.

• Visitors are asked to be respectful, avoid loud conversation, and refrain from taking photos inside the sacred spaces.

Exploring Tsalka Canyon

Visitors can explore Tsalka Canyon’s stunning vistas and unique geological formations during the tour. The centerpiece is a glass bridge that offers breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding lakes.

Guests can wander the trails and discover hidden waterfalls, rock formations, and serene alpine lakes like Tsalka, Paravani, Saghamo, and Madatapa. The moderate 30-minute hike to the canyon’s edge provides an opportunity to immerse in the region’s natural beauty.

The tour also includes stops at the Ethnographic Museum in Gorelovka and the former German colony of Asureti, offering cultural insights beyond the canyon itself.

Visiting Poka Nunnery

Why does the Poka Nunnery stand out as a highlight of the Tsalka Canyon tour? Its centuries-old architecture and sacred atmosphere captivate visitors.

The nunnery’s stunning white-washed walls and red-tiled roofs create a serene ambiance. Guests can explore the unique iconography and ornaments inside the main cathedral.

The nuns’ dedication to preserving traditional Georgian craftsmanship is evident in the handmade tapestries, embroidery, and religious items on display. Plus, visitors can witness the daily rituals and chants of the nuns, offering a glimpse into Georgia’s rich Orthodox Christian heritage.

• Centuries-old architectural wonder

• Serene atmosphere of white-washed walls and red-tiled roofs

• Unique religious iconography and ornaments inside the cathedral

• Traditional Georgian craftsmanship showcased in handmade textiles and religious items

Discovering Gorelovka and Asureti

After exploring the serene Poka Nunnery, the Tsalka Canyon tour takes visitors to the Ethnographic Museum in Gorelovka.

The museum offers a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage, showcasing traditional Georgian artifacts and the history of the former German colony of Asureti, also known as Elizabettal. Guests can wander through the quaint town, admiring the unique architecture and learning about the German settlers who once called this place home.

The tour then continues to the stunning Manglisi Cathedral, a beautiful example of Georgian Orthodox church design.

Throughout the day, the guide shares insights into the local way of life.

FAQ

What Kind of Food Can I Expect During the Tour?

Guests can expect to sample local Georgian cuisine during the tour. This may include traditional dishes like khachapuri, khinkali, and various meat and vegetable dishes, often accompanied by Georgian wine or chacha. The tour highlights the region’s renowned gastronomy.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour provider also includes bottled water, so you can supplement with your personal provisions as desired. Just be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines at the sites you’ll visit.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes restroom breaks at various stops along the way. Guests can use the facilities at the Ethnographic Museum in Gorelovka, as well as other designated rest areas during the full-day excursion.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Tsalka Canyon?

The best time to visit Tsalka Canyon is during the summer months when the weather is mild and sunny. Visitors can enjoy the scenic lakes and waterfalls without the risk of bad weather closures.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs Along the Tour Route?

The tour route offers limited opportunities to purchase souvenirs. There are a few artisanal shops and local markets near some of the stops, but the main focus is on exploring the natural wonders and cultural sites along the way.

Sum Up

The Tsalka Canyon Tour offers a captivating exploration of Georgia’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can admire breathtaking views, discover hidden waterfalls, and gain insights into the region’s history and traditions. With comfortable transportation and expert guidance, this private tour provides an immersive experience that showcases the best of the Tsalka region. It’s an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery.