David Gareja Monastery Complex
დავით გარეჯის სამონასტრო კომპლექსი
A group of 6th-century rock-hewn monasteries in the semi-desert, with rainbow-colored hills along the ridge and medieval cave frescoes.
David Gareja was founded in the 6th century by the Assyrian Father David. It comprises hundreds of monastic cells and churches carved into the rock walls of the semi-desert Gareja hills, and Lavra Monastery is still home to monks. A roughly 1-hour climb along the ridge trail reaches the Udabno caves, which contain 10th–13th-century frescoes and overlook colorful hills and grasslands. Parts of the ridge are close to the Azerbaijani border, so you must follow the designated routes. Admission is free. There is no public transport, so hire a car from Tbilisi or join a day tour, a journey of about 2 hours. Bring water and sunscreen, and dress modestly.
Opening hours
Open during the day
Nearby sights
- Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi (Sameba)
- Old Tbilisi / Abanotubani
- Jumah Mosque
- Metekhi Church
- Leghvtakhevi Waterfall
- Narikala Fortress
- National Botanical Garden of Georgia
- Rike Park