Davit Gareja

დავით გარეჯა

A remote rock-hewn monastery complex carved into desert cliffs near the Azerbaijan border. Founded in the 6th century, it features cave cells and ancient frescoes amid striking semi-desert scenery.

Things to do

• Lavra Monastery — Explore the main functioning monastery carved into the hillside, still home to monks and centered on the tomb of St. David Garejeli.
• Udabno Cave Frescoes — Climb the ridge above Lavra to reach the Udabno caves adorned with faded 10th–13th century frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
• Ridge-Top Border Hike — Follow the trail along the crest of the ridge where the path traces the Georgia–Azerbaijan border with panoramic semi-desert views.
• Photograph the Semi-Desert Scenery — Capture the striped, multicolored rock formations and rolling barren hills that give Gareja its otherworldly landscape.
• Spot Wildlife — Watch for tortoises, snakes, eagles, and grazing herds that inhabit the arid steppe surrounding the caves.
• Visit St. David's Spring — See the small sacred spring near the Lavra where pilgrims collect holy water associated with the founding saint.

Food to try

• Khachapuri — Bring a picnic of this cheese-filled bread since there are no restaurants at the remote site itself.
• Churchkhela — Sample this string of nuts dipped in thickened grape juice, a portable Georgian sweet ideal for the long drive out.
• Udabno Village Meal — Stop at a guesthouse cafe in nearby Udabno village for hearty khinkali dumplings after your hike.
• Georgian Wine — Try a glass of qvevri-fermented Kakhetian wine, as the region lies within Georgia's ancient wine heartland.
• Mtsvadi — Enjoy skewered grilled pork or lamb, a staple often served at roadside spots on the route from Tbilisi.

Local customs & good to know

• Bring Water and Sun Protection — The site is a shadeless semi-desert with no shops, so carry ample water, a hat, and sunscreen.
• Dress Modestly at the Monastery — Cover shoulders and knees and women should have a headscarf when entering the active Lavra chapels.
• Mind the Border — The Udabno ridge crosses disputed frontier territory, so stay on marked paths and respect any patrol restrictions.
• Plan Transport Ahead — There is no public transport, so arrange a tour or hire a driver from Tbilisi for the roughly two-hour journey.

Nearby

• Sighnaghi (Kakheti) — 49 km
• Bodbe Monastery (Kakheti) — 50 km
• Tsinandali Estate (Kakheti) — 52 km
• Telavi (Kakheti) — 53 km