Discover Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti

Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti offers a range of travel experiences, including nature in Racha National Park, historic churches and museums, mineral springs, and a regional baking tradition. If you are looking for a hotel, the focus of your trip can help you start your search. The sights and activities offer different experiences, from challenging hikes to art collections and architectural history.

Nature and Hiking

Racha National Park lies within the administrative boundaries of Oni Municipality in Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti and covers 50,835 hectares. The park is home to 117 bird species and 54 mammal species. This protected area offers a clear nature-focused option for planning your trip.

The Khvamli Mountain in the Tsageri area offers a different landscape. It is 2,002 meters high, densely forested, and rugged. There are 19 caves on its outer slopes, including Tekenteri, also known as Tekenteris Well, and Boga Ice Cave. Those interested in caves will find a specific nature-focused experience here, distinct from the national park's biodiversity.

The Sakao–Ghebi–Mount Shoda route is described as a challenging hike for experienced hikers. It starts in Ghebi, follows a mountain ridge, and ends in Sakao. It can therefore be considered a separate focus alongside the protected landscapes and caves; it is specifically described as being for experienced hikers.

Churches, Inscriptions and Museums

Nicortsminda Cathedral, in the village of the same name in Racha, was built during the reign of King Bagrat III, between 1010 and 1014. In 2007, it was submitted for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. The construction date and submission are two distinct historical details: the dates place its construction in context, while the Tentative List refers to a later UNESCO step.

The Oni Synagogue, built in 1895, is located in the town of Oni. A Hebrew inscription is displayed at the entrance, and the Ten Commandments are engraved in Hebrew on the eastern wall. In Tsesi, Racha, Barakoni Church is another example of religious architecture: this rectangular domed church is decorated on the exterior with various carvings.

The museums also have different focuses. The Museum of Fine Arts in Ambrolauri displays works by around 600 artists, including Lado Gudiashivili, Elene Akhvlediani, David Kakabadze, and Avto Varazi. The Tsageri Historical Museum focuses on artifacts dating from the Early Bronze Age to the Middle Ages. Its exhibits include bronze figurines, weapons, agricultural tools, and coins. This allows you to choose between artworks by a range of artists and a historical collection covering a clearly defined period.

Mineral Springs and Local Traditions

Shovi is a balneological resort specializing in therapeutic mineral baths used to treat various ailments. There are 16 mineral springs there, each used to treat a different ailment. This offers a distinct travel focus alongside nature and culture: the emphasis here is on mineral springs and their described therapeutic use.

Rachan Lobiani baking is part of the local culinary tradition. In Racha, it is considered a traditional ritual that visitors can take part in. If you would like to participate, you can check in advance whether baking can be arranged.

Explore the Subregions

Discover more destinations: Oni, Ambrolauri, Glola, Tsageri, Lentekhi, Tsanashi, Khvanchkara, Ghebi, Kveda Tlughi.

For the broader travel overview: Georgia.