Kutaisi: Chiatura Cable Cars & Katskhi Pillar Guided Tour

Exploring Georgia’s Offbeat Treasures: A Guided Tour of Katskhi Pillar and Chiatura

Taking a day to uncover Georgia’s lesser-known sights can be surprisingly rewarding. This guided tour from Kutaisi offers a chance to see the striking Katskhi Pillar, a 40-meter limestone monolith topped with a church, and to experience the industrial charm of Chiatura, a town famous for its Soviet-era cable cars. For just around $24, you get a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s unique history, architecture, and natural beauty.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances impressive views with authentic local life. The Katskhi Pillar, with its monk living atop, offers a rare peek into monastic dedication and striking photo opportunities. Then, riding the new cable car system in Chiatura feels like stepping into a different era—especially when you spot the abandoned “flying coffins” hanging on old lines, which add a dash of Soviet nostalgia. The visit to the rock-carved Mghvimevi monastery adds a spiritual touch, rounding out this multi-layered journey.

A small consideration is the cramped van ride, which travelers have mentioned. While the trip is largely rewarding, the transport can feel tight, especially on a longer day. Also, some portions involve walking through muddy or uneven terrain, so dressing appropriately is advisable. Though, many find the value — seeing such distinctive sights at an accessible price — well worth these minor inconveniences.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique combination of natural and industrial sights — from the stunning Katskhi Pillar to Chiatura’s cable cars.
• Authentic experience — riding the modern gondola and seeing abandoned Soviet cable cars, which tell stories of Georgia’s industrial past.
• Compact, well-organized day — you’ll visit five key stops, each offering different perspectives on the region’s history, religion, and engineering.
• Value for money — at approximately $24, the price includes transportation, the cable car ride, and a knowledgeable guide.
• Ideal for curious travelers — those interested in history, architecture, religion, and technology will find this tour especially satisfying.
• Small group size — usually capped at 15 travelers, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a personal experience.

A quick overview of the experience
This tour is a compact, thoughtfully curated way to see some of Georgia’s most intriguing sights outside Kutaisi. The day begins around 10 a.m. at the Megobari Tours meeting point, with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi onboard, and a friendly, English-speaking guide. For about 5 to 7 hours, you’ll explore the Katskhi Pillar, Chiatura’s cable car system, and the rock-carved Mghvimevi monastery, with opportunities for fantastic photos and meaningful insights into local culture.

What makes this tour stand out is the blend of natural wonder and intriguing industrial history. The Katskhi Pillar is a dramatic limestone formation crowned with a tiny monastery, which monks still live in today. You’ll see the pillar from afar and enjoy a quick visit to the church at its base. The Chiatura cable car ride offers a chance to experience a piece of modern Georgian life; the newer gondolas are a smooth ride that feels surprisingly authentic, especially when you glimpse the old, abandoned cable cars hanging on rusted lines. The local guide helps you understand Chiatura’s importance as a manganese mining hub and shares stories about life in this Soviet-era town.

One thing to keep in mind is that some guests have found the van a little cramped, especially on a full day, and you might get muddy if the weather’s wet. It’s smart to wear sturdy shoes and bring a little extra patience for the walk around Chiatura and the monastery. Still, these are minor issues in an experience that offers rich sights for a modest price.

The Katskhi Pillar: An Iconic Limestone Monolith

The Katskhi Pillar is one of Georgia’s most striking natural monuments. Rising 40 meters from the ground, it features a small church perched at the top, accessible only by monk-only ropes and a tiny wooden platform. Since a monk lives there permanently, visitors can only peek from a distance or walk to the ground-level church and monastery. The view from the parking lot or along the road is breathtaking, and you can take great photos of the towering limestone column.

This stop is brief but memorable—most visitors find the sight of a living monk atop such a natural spire both humbling and fascinating. The admission is free, and it’s a quick walk from the parking area, making it an accessible highlight even for those with limited time. As one reviewer noted, “You can take breathtaking photos of the pillar” – and I’d agree that this is an experience worth the few minutes it takes.

Chiatura’s Industrial Heritage: Cable Cars and Soviet Monuments

The real highlight of this tour is the Chiarura cable car system, which dates back to the 1950s. Originally built to ferry manganese miners up and down the steep hillsides, these cable cars became a defining feature of the town. Today, the new gondola ride allows you to feel like a local, gliding over the city’s rooftops, with panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills.

You’ll also walk through Chiatura’s streets, where Soviet architecture and mosaics tell stories of an era long past. Many buildings look like they could be characters in a Cold War movie: functional, utilitarian, with a hint of faded grandeur. The tour guide, whose knowledge adds a lot of flavor, points out the monuments and mosaics scattered around the town, giving visitors a window into Georgia’s Soviet history. One reviewer mentioned that the guide knows what he’s talking about, which adds a lot to the experience.

Walking around Chiatura, you’ll see the old cable car stations and rusted lines, creating a surreal landscape. Some cable cars cling to the lines like “flying coffins,” a vivid reminder of the town’s industrial past. The newer cable cars are comfortable and smooth, making the ride enjoyable rather than nerve-wracking.

The Rock-Carved Mghvimevi Monastery: A Spiritual Stop

After exploring the industrial side, the tour takes you to the Mghvimevi monastery, carved into a rock face. This peaceful spot offers a quiet contrast to Chiatura’s bustling streets. It’s a small but significant religious site, and the rock-carved interior adds a sense of timelessness. The guide shares insights into its religious significance, making the visit educational as well as scenic.

The timing allows for a leisurely walk here, so you can soak in the atmosphere and take photos of the carved facades and surrounding landscape.

Returning to Kutaisi: A Scenic Drive

The journey back to Kutaisi takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. The return trip offers glimpses of Georgia’s countryside and small villages, adding context to the sights you’ve seen.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers with a sense of curiosity about Georgia’s diverse landscape and history. It’s particularly suited for those who love stunning views, enjoy glimpses into Soviet-era architecture, or are interested in religious sites like the Katskhi Pillar and Mghvimevi monastery. The value for money is outstanding, considering the transportation, cable car rides, and guiding included. It’s also well-suited for small groups, which makes for a more intimate experience and easier interaction.

However, expect a full day of walking and some bumpy rides. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, be prepared for possible muddy patches, and keep in mind that the van can feel crowded. The tour is a good fit for those who enjoy a combination of nature, history, and local culture without the need for extensive planning.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 5 to 7 hours, including travel time and all stops.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi onboard, an English-speaking guide, and the new cable car ride are included.

Is there an entrance fee for the stops?
Most stops, including Katskhi Pillar and Mghvimevi monastery, have free admission. The only costs are personal expenses and optional souvenirs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and possibly muddy terrain are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the mix of walking and scenic views makes it suitable for older children and teenagers, especially those interested in history and architecture.

How crowded does it get?
The group size is limited to 15 travelers, making it a relatively small tour with personal attention.

How do I book?
Most travelers book the tour about 12 days in advance through the provider’s website or booking platform.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Georgia’s lesser-known but intriguing sights. You’ll appreciate the stunning natural monument of Katskhi, the industrial nostalgia of Chiatura, and the serenity of the rock-carved monastery. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking authentic experiences at an affordable price, especially if you enjoy a mix of scenic views, history, and local culture. While the van ride can be snug, the overall value and unique sights make it a memorable part of any Georgia itinerary.