Once a vibrant center of Jewish culture in the Racha region, Oni is a captivating town known for its beautiful 19th-century synagogue and panoramic views of the Rioni River.
This charming settlement lies on the left bank of the Rioni, at the base of the Racha Range, just 34 kilometers from the regional hub of Ambrolauri. Oni is another great spot to spend the night while exploring the region, with its serene surroundings and fascinating history.
Tourist infrastructure is well-developed here. The town offers authentic guesthouses, cozy cafés, and small shops. But its true highlight is nature’s embrace and the architectural gem of its old synagogue.
For centuries, Oni was home to Georgia’s third-largest Jewish community. Jewish settlers arrived here over two millennia ago, shaping the town’s spiritual and cultural landscape. By the 1990s, most of the Jewish population had emigrated to Israel, Europe, and the United States. Today, the synagogue stands as a poignant testament to this rich heritage and is open to visitors upon request.
Finding the synagogue is simple—it’s located on the outskirts of town toward Shovi, just beyond the residential area (coordinates: 42.58701, 43.44636).
✅ Stroll Through the Town – Oni invites slow wandering. Admire traditional wooden houses with intricate designs, listen to the murmur of the Rioni, soak in the mountain views, or follow a tranquil forest trail.
✅ Visit the Local Museum – In August 2022, Oni welcomed a new museum dedicated to Racha’s cultural heritage. Its collection offers a unique window into the region’s past through carefully curated exhibits.
✅ Taste Local Products – Stop by the town’s market or quaint shops to pick up mountain honey, locally crafted wine, and handmade souvenirs.
✅ Explore the Surroundings – To fully immerse yourself in the soul of Racha, venture into the small villages scattered around Oni. Don’t miss a trip to Shovi to see Stalin’s summer retreat—an impressive wooden structure surrounded by alpine beauty.
You can reach Oni by a scenic road from Ambrolauri or take the new highway from Tbilisi through Sachkhere. Minibuses (marshrutkas) also run from Tbilisi’s Didube Station, typically departing around 8:30 AM and again between 2:00–3:00 PM.