Short tour: Kutaisi – Racha – Kutaisi*

Arrival to Kutaisi. Meet the representative of the company. Excursion in the ancient city Kutaisi, that is more than 3 thousand years old. Visit Gelati monastery and academy, established by the great Georgian king – David IV the Builder. Gelati Monastery has preserved a great variety of murals dating back to XII-XVIII centuries. Therefore, the most wonderful in the architecture of Gelati complex is its frescoes and mosaics. They travel us in ancient past and remind of their creators. Next, excursion to the Cathedral of Bagrati that was erected in Kutaisi during the reign of Bagrat III. It was named after the first king of united Georgia. As a main place of the kingdom, it was consecrated in 1003. Both Gelati monastery with Academy and Bagrati Cathedral are included into the list of World Heritage sites of UNESCO. Then, visit "monastery for the accomplishment of desires" – Motsameta. Monastery overlooks the Rioni river surrounded by rugged coastline vegetation. The legend says that Georgian dukes David and Constantine Mkheidze were executed by Muslims for their devotion to Christianity and the monastery is constructed at the place of their martyrdom. Dukes David and Constantine are canonized; their relics are stored in a large rectangular ark on a dais in the small hall of the monastery. People believe that if you wish something, crawl under the ark three times and venerate holy relics, your wish will come true. Excursion in the Prometheus castor cave. According to the legend, Prometheus was chained on the rock because he gave fire to humanity. The cave is located 5 km northwest of the city of Tskhaltubo. It was discovered in the early 80's of the twentieth century. It is one of the most attractive caves, thanks to its underwater rivers and landscapes. Almost all underwater karst forms: stalactites, stalagmites, and others. Hotel accommodation. Overnight.

 

 

Breakfast. Arrival to Oni. Racha-Lechkhumi is Georgian Switzerland. It is the Region of beautiful mountains and green valleys. It is surrounded by the Caucasus mountain range and glaciers. As the legend reveals, once the Georgian hunter climbed the ridge – Nakerala and saw a narrow and deep gorge of the Rioni river. The view was breathtaking. The hunter compared it to the mysterious well and exclaimed «What a well!» («Ra chaa!» in Georgian). Ever since the place is called Racha. Oni is famous for its mountainous resorts. The regional center – Oni is located at 800 m., while some villages are even 1500-1800 m. above the sea level. From the main road there is a possibility to see the lake – Shaori – a place of extraordinary beauty. After visiting Nikortsminda – domed church of St. Nicholas (built in 1010-1014) we pass city Ambrolauri and visit Barakoni (XIII c. church). Hotel accommodation in Oni. Overnight.

 

 

Breakfast. Arrival to Kutaisi. Free time. Farewell dinner with sings and dances. Hotel accommodation. Overnight.

 

 

Breakfast. Transfer to the airport of Kutaisi. Home return.