Terjola: Culture, Caves and Waterfalls

Terjola lies in the Imereti Lowland in western Georgia, on the right bank of the Chkhara River. The municipality combines historic sites and cultural institutions with forests, waterfalls and karst caves. The city lies on the Tbilisi–Zestaponi road; the roads of national importance between Terjola and Tkibuli, and Kutaisi and Vartsikhe, also pass through Terjola. Terjola was first mentioned in the 17th century and was granted city status in 1983. Its first mention and later city status mark different stages in the town’s history.

Cultural Heritage in the Municipality

The municipality’s cultural heritage includes Stone Age caves, medieval fortresses and churches. Visitors can explore the David and Sergo Kldiashvili Museum and the Shalva and Petre Amiranashvili Museum. Cultural facilities also include three theaters, libraries and other institutions.

The David Kldiashvili house museum opened in 1945. Its collection includes manuscripts, photographs and documents, furniture, dishes and clothing, as well as the bed the writer used during the last days of his life. These objects give visitors a personal connection to his life and work.

In Gogni, St. George’s Church has no doors and welcomes worshippers at any time. Pilgrims visit on May 6 and November 23. In Gvankiti is Dedagvtisa, a historic monument dating from the 12th century; check access before visiting.

Caves, Waterfalls and Landscapes

The municipality’s forests feature vegetation typical of Colchis. Tree species found there include oak, beech, linden, Caucasian zelkova, boxwood, willow and mulberry. Alongside waterfalls and karst caves, the area’s natural attractions therefore include a variety of forest landscapes.

Kadagidze Rafi is a four-meter-high waterfall in the Dzusa Gorge near Sazano. When water levels are low in summer, a cave entrance measuring 25 meters may become visible; whether it can be seen depends on the water level. Seven dinosaur footprints have also been preserved nearby.

The Navenakhevi Cave in Imereti has four chambers on two levels. Limestone stalactites and stalagmites characterize the cave; a seven-meter-high stalagmite stands at the exit. A visit can be combined with nearby educational facilities, cafés and forest trails. The visitor area includes parking, a visitor center, a cafeteria, an amphitheater and children’s attractions. An asphalt road leads to the cave and is accessible to all types of vehicles. Access and visitor facilities may change; check conditions before your visit.

A village road that can be driven by car leads to Mujireti Cave, followed by a 200-meter-long path. A main passage with short side branches runs through the upper limestone layer. As access conditions may change seasonally, it is advisable to check before setting out.

A certified guide and special equipment are required to visit Dzevri Cave; confirm these requirements before setting out. Sakazhia Cave is designated as a Paleolithic monument where early humans lived in the Transcaucasus. A permit from the administration of the Imereti Caves Protected Areas is required to visit it.

Wine and Regional Cuisine

Makaridze Winery in Terjola continues a family winemaking tradition and has planted Otskhanuri Sapere vines. Qvevri are used in the family wine cellar. The winery offers wine sales and tastings; advance booking is required for a tasting. Check the visitor offer in advance.

In Imereti, Terjola is also associated with chicken in Isrim-Makvali sauce. Whether the dish is available in a home or restaurant varies. Together with winemaking, this culinary tradition adds to the cultural and scenic experiences in the municipality.

Discover more destinations: Chiatura, Zestafoni, Etseri, Chkvishi, Motsameta, Tskaltubo, Vardzia, Kutaisi

For the wider travel overview: Imereti.