Gudauri
Georgia's largest ski resort, at about 2,200 m below the Jvari Pass, with more than 70 km of runs and paragliding in summer.
GudauriPhoto: Supanut Arunoprayote, CC BY 4.0Gudauri is a ski resort on the Georgian Military Road, 120 km north of Tbilisi, with its base at about 2,200 m on the south side of the Jvari Pass. Lifts climb to about 3,280 m at the top of the Sadzele lift and serve more than 70 km of mostly open, treeless runs. The resort is known for reliable snow, wide intermediate pistes, freeride terrain and heli-skiing. The ski season usually runs from December to April.
In summer Gudauri becomes one of the best places in Georgia for tandem paragliding, with flights high over the Aragvi valley, and the area is good for hiking and horse riding. The Russia–Georgia Friendship Monument and the Jvari Pass are a short drive north. Accommodation ranges from large hotels in New Gudauri to apartments and guesthouses along the main road. Book early for the New Year holidays and February.
What to see and do
- More than 70 km of runs between about 2,000 and 3,280 m
- Freeride and heli-skiing
- Tandem paragliding flights
- Summer hiking and horse riding
- Short drive to the Friendship Monument and Jvari Pass
How to visit
Getting there
Gudauri is 120 km from Tbilisi, about 2 to 2.5 hours by car on the Georgian Military Road. Marshrutkas from Didube to Stepantsminda pass through, and in winter there are ski transfers from Tbilisi.
When to go
December–April for skiing; June–September for paragliding and hiking. Plan 1 day–1 week here.
- Snow chains are often needed on the road in winter, and the pass can close after storms.
- The sun is strong at this altitude; use sunscreen and goggles.
- Paragliding depends on wind, so leave a spare day in your plans.
- Weekends and holidays are much busier than weekdays.
Gudauri: FAQ
When is the ski season in Gudauri?
The season usually runs from December to April. Opening and closing dates depend on snowfall each year.
How do I get from Tbilisi to Gudauri?
Drive 120 km north on the Georgian Military Road, about 2 to 2.5 hours, or take a Stepantsminda marshrutka from Didube station and ask to be dropped in Gudauri. Ski transfers run in winter.
Tours that include Gudauri
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Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Gudauri.
