Mystical Author's Tour of Georgia: "The Enigma of the Trialeti Foothills"

Why on earth did they construct such marvels?
How did they even manage it?
And who were the masterminds behind these enigmatic creations?

Enter the realm of Georgia's mesmerizing megaliths! These sites are peculiar, astonishing, and utterly inexplicable. They exude an aura of mystique, serving as remnants of ancient pagan rituals and sacred energy spots. Most of them remain shrouded in mystery, awaiting the day their secrets will be unraveled. Perched in remote and unfathomable locations, devoid of any discernible cultural influence, they zealously guard the ancient Georgian heritage. But fear not, for we shall venture forth into the depths of their enigma.

Prepare to encounter ancient megalithic fortresses, ancient citadels dating back three to four millennia, scattered menhirs, and places of incredible power. With a blend of captivating legends, enigmatic narratives, and factual evidence, the tour will immerse you in these mystical realms. And who knows, dear traveler, perhaps you will be the one to unlock the secrets—discovering the identities behind these marvels and unraveling the purpose that drove their creation!

This journey promises an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. You won't be a mere spectator on a couch, munching popcorn. Instead, you will embark on this grand adventure with a backpack slung over your shoulder and a camera gripped firmly in your hands, fully immersed in the mysticism. It's an encounter you will recount to your children, your grandchildren, and generations yet to come. Come, join us on this remarkable odyssey! The spectacle is about to commence!

Tour program:

✅ Day 1 - "Awaits Upon Your Arrival"

On your day of arrival, we will settle into our comfortable hotel. The tour kicks off in the vibrant city of Tbilisi, and the schedule may vary depending on whether you arrive at the Batumi, Kutaisi, or Tbilisi airports. However, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, all participants will gather at a charming countryside restaurant for a delightful "Welcome Dinner." For those with late arrivals, worry not, as transfers will be provided.

📌 Tbilisi: Stroll through the city, introduction dinner. The first day's itinerary will be tailored to participants based on their arrival airport (Batumi, Kutaisi, or Tbilisi).

✅ Day 2 - "Ancient Wonders Before Our Time"

Our journey takes us to the enchanting village of Gohnari in Kvemo-Kartli today. Nestled in the valley of the Algeti River, on the southern slope of the majestic Gohnari Range, lies one of Georgia's magnificent megalithic complexes. Dating back to the Bronze Age, this awe-inspiring site, known as Gohnari Lodovani, has roots reaching back to the 2nd and 1st millennia BCE. Brace yourself for invigorating hikes as we explore both the Northern and Southern sections of this remarkable complex.
Once we've absorbed its wonders, we venture further to Dmanisi, where the excavation site reveals the remains of the earliest human settlers on the European continent. However, Dmanisi is not just an archaeological site; it also boasts the exquisite Dmanisi Sioni Church, adorned with intricately carved stonework that will leave you mesmerized. Don't miss the chance to wander through the remnants of the Dmanisi Fortress, offering picturesque vistas of the surrounding gorge—a perfect opportunity for capturing unforgettable photographs.

To conclude the day, we'll indulge in a delectable dinner and retreat to our accommodations in Dmanisi.

📌 Gohnari megaliths, Dmanisi Fortress, Dmanisi Sioni Church, Dmanisi Fortress

✅ Day 3 - "Sacred Sites of Power"

Rise and shine! An early start awaits us, followed by a delicious breakfast to fuel our exploration. Today, we will encounter mysterious and awe-inspiring locations that will ignite your senses. Feel the earth's embrace, witness the gentle dance of the air, and bask in the empowering radiance of the sun. Our first destination is the captivating Samshvilde Temple Complex, stretching along a 2-3 km-long gorge. Originating from ancient pagan times, this remarkable complex is already mentioned in medieval Georgian records as one of Kartli's largest cities. Be prepared to immerse yourself in its vast expanse, as we spend the better part of the morning unraveling its secrets.
Afterward, we will indulge in a satisfying lunch before continuing our journey to the enigmatic megalithic fortress of Tedjisi. This intriguing site holds its own allure, surpassing even the wonders of Samshvilde. While the purpose of Samshvilde is somewhat understood, debates about Tedjisi's astro-archaeological significance and the enigmatic phenomena that occur there continue to captivate scholars. Nonetheless, the beauty of Tedjisi's surroundings is undeniable, with the neighboring village appearing as if it were plucked from a painter's canvas. As we witness the captivating sunset from the fortress, we'll make our way to Tsalka, where we'll settle in for a restful night.

📌 Samshvilde Temple Complex, Tedjisi megalithic fortress

✅ Day 4 - "The Megaliths of the Great Lake"

Today, we embark on a journey to the lakes and dormant volcanoes. After catching a glimpse of the fog-shrouded Chikiani Pass and the nearby Mengir, we descend towards Georgia's largest lake, Paravani. Many consider Paravani to be particularly stunning in winter, with its frozen surface and snow-capped mountains in the backdrop. However, the wild beauty of these places is captivating at any time of the year. After feasting our eyes on the magnificent landscape, we hasten our pace and make our way up to another enigmatic site—the megalithic fortress of Shaori. Opinions about this place are fiercely debated. It lacks any trace of a discernible cultural layer, and its purpose and builders remain shrouded in mystery. Georgian astro-archaeologists propose that it might have served as an ancient observatory, even presenting mathematical calculations of the structures' geometry. Our excursion concludes with a delightful dinner at a remarkable eatery, followed by a comfortable stay in Akhalkalaki.

📌 Nardavani fortified settlement, Chikiani Pass and Mengir, Paravani Lake, Shaori megalithic fortress

✅ Day 5 - "The Paradoxes of Mount Abuli"

In the morning, after replenishing our provisions and water supplies, we venture into the mountains. The road is suitable only for rugged off-road vehicles, as it winds its way steadily uphill. As we ascend, a breathtaking panorama of the Samtskhe-Javakheti lakes and the peaks of the Trialet Ridge gradually unfolds before us. These are "must-visit" places, where the stunning combination of mountains, lakes, blue skies, and white clouds creates an astonishingly beautiful scene. Yet, the true allure lies near Mount Abuli—the megalithic fortress of Abuli. In fair weather, the sense of mystique may not be as pronounced, but when the clouds hang low... At an altitude of approximately 2500-2800 meters above sea level, if fortune smiles upon us and the clouds descend, we may be captivated by eerie sounds, walls emerging from the mist, footsteps, and a sense of being enveloped in clouds. Yes, in these low-lying clouds, the fortress of Abuli becomes the epitome of mysticism. We'll spend the entire day exploring Abuli, indulging in a picnic, and gradually descending back to Akhalkalaki. It promises to be an exhilarating yet tiring day.

📌 Abuli megalithic fortress

✅ Day 6 - "Megaliths in Borjomi"

In the morning, after admiring the Mengir known as the "Murdzhakhetskiy Kit," we head to the Saro fortified settlement. Unfortunately, only scant remnants remain of what was once a grand complex, but even these remnants bear testament to the magnificence of the settlement that once thrived here. The awe-inspiring view of the gorge and waterfall adds to the allure. Additionally, there's a splendid women's monastery with a well-preserved church from the 7th-8th centuries dedicated to the Archangels. Continuing our journey, we pass by the majestic Khertvisi Fortress and briefly skirt the outskirts of Akhaltsikhe before entering the Borjomi Gorge and arriving in Borjomi. Along the way, we'll pause for lunch and soon find ourselves at the hidden Gogichaantgeli fortified settlement nestled in the forest. Ongoing debates surround its purpose and the period of its construction, but such discussions do not diminish the beauty and grandeur of this place. Further ahead lies Borjomi, renowned for its mineral springs. We'll take a stroll through the park, savoring the farewell dinner on the banks of the Kura River.

📌 Saro fortified settlement, Gogichaantgeli fortified settlement, Borjomi Park, farewell dinner, hotel in Tbilisi

✅ Day 7 - "Contemplation and Return!"

As you depart Georgia, carrying with you a treasure trove of legends, scientific facts, conjectures, fragments of history, and, most importantly, your own impressions of these mesmerizing Georgian sites, it is time to reflect, assimilate, and form your own judgments. And when the moment is right, return to validate your conclusions or simply relish in the mystical power of Georgia's megaliths once more! Until we meet again!

📌 Departure preparations, depending on flight schedules, there may be a city walk, souvenir shopping, or free time. Transfer to the airport.
📌 The program of the last day may differ for participants departing from Kutaisi or Tbilisi airports.

❗️Required Equipment:

• Backpack
• Trekking boots or any other comfortable non-slip footwear
• Raincoat
• Warm sweater
• Buff/cap
• Socks (thermal and cotton)
• Comfortable sportswear
• Extra socks
• Spare shoes
• Personal tableware (cup, spoon, plate)
• Trekking poles (optional)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal hygiene items
• Individual first aid kit

❗️Tour Rules:

1. The tour is led by a guide (or guides).
2. During the tour, all participants must follow the leader's instructions to ensure a safe, organized, and equally comfortable experience for everyone.
3. It is prohibited to arrive at the meeting point under the influence of alcohol. Participants in such a condition may be excluded from the tour at the guide's discretion.
4. Drinking alcoholic beverages in the vehicle during the journey is prohibited.
5. Headphones should not be used while walking.
6. Do not litter.
7. Do not pick flowers.
8. Pets are not allowed.
9. To avoid conflicts during the hike, we refrain from discussing topics such as a) politics, b) religion, and c) football.
10. In case of unforeseen circumstances, the guide reserves the right to modify the course of the tour.

❗️The tour program provided is a promotional outline. Due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances, certain elements of the program may be substituted with equivalent alternatives.

❗️The average cost of the tour is indicated for two people. The final price will be determined based on your specific requirements regarding hotel standards, restaurants, and group size. A detailed tour itinerary and list of services will be sent to you via email after registration on the website or upon request. 

❗️If you have allergies to specific plants, animals, food products, or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance.