Algeti National Park

Among Georgia’s rich collection of national parks—Borjomi-Kharagauli, Vashlovani, Javakheti, Kazbegi, Kolkheti, Machakhela, Mtirala, Tbilisi, Tusheti—Algeti holds the distinction of being the smallest, yet no less remarkable. Taking its name from the nearby Algeti River, this natural gem covers an area of 68 square kilometers and lies within an hour’s drive from Tbilisi, nestled in the Kvemo Kartli region.

The park’s landscape is predominantly mountainous, spanning the rugged slopes of the Trialeti Range. Altitudes within the park range from 1,000 to 2,000 meters above sea level, with its highest point being Mount Kldekari. Open year-round, Algeti National Park offers a temperate and pleasant climate ideal for outdoor excursions. The park is a favored destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking peaceful mountain treks. The park’s visitor center, located in the nearby village of Manglisi, provides essential information, detailed trail maps, and the opportunity to join guided group tours—either on foot or horseback.

Although the park lacks a highly developed infrastructure, it offers thematic guided tours focused on ecology, botany, and archaeology. The main hiking trail in Algeti National Park is known as the “Royal Ridge,” designed for hikers with a moderate level of fitness. Stretching six kilometers in length, this trail takes between six and eight hours to complete and begins on the outskirts of Manglisi, near the Church of the Virgin Mary. From there, it winds along the scenic route of the Royal Ridge trail, offering panoramic views and a rich immersion in nature.

Beyond its natural beauty, Algeti National Park is steeped in history. Scattered across the park and its surrounding territory are ancient churches, battlefields, and the remnants of fortresses. Standing at the park’s main entrance is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, believed to date back to the 4th century. This cathedral is renowned for having once housed a priceless Orthodox relic—a nail from the crucifixion cross of Jesus Christ.

A short distance from the village lies the cave of Arsena Odzelashvili, a folk hero affectionately known as the “Georgian Robin Hood.” Celebrated for his valiant struggle against serfdom and injustice, Arsena is revered as a symbol of defiance and the champion of the oppressed.

Some 30 kilometers to the west and east of the park are the medieval fortresses of Kldekari and Birtvisi, as well as the Didgori Valley—site of one of the most pivotal battles in Georgian history. Reaching Kldekari Fortress requires either a rugged off-road vehicle or a challenging hike. Perched at an altitude of 2,200 meters in the Trialeti Mountains, the ruins overlook the village of Choliani and offer a rewarding experience for those who make the trek.

The journey to Birtvisi Fortress by car from Manglisi takes about 30 minutes, followed by a two-kilometer uphill hike. Though little remains of the fortress walls, the site captivates visitors with its commanding panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.

Algeti National Park lies to the west of Tbilisi, and the journey begins by reaching the village of Manglisi, located 60 kilometers from the capital. Travelers can opt for public transportation or rent a vehicle for greater flexibility. The park’s administrative office—where visitors can collect maps and trail information—is located at 4 Kurortnaya Street, Manglisi. Several tour operators also offer guided hiking trips to the park, departing directly from Tbilisi.

The entrance to the park is easily identified by the medieval Church of the Virgin Mary. Marshrutkas (shared minivans) to Manglisi depart from the bus stop near Tbilisi’s railway station. Although they operate without a fixed schedule, the final departure is typically around 16:00 (or 17:00–18:00 during summer). The ride takes about an hour and a half and costs around 6 GEL. Once in Manglisi, a 20-minute walk brings you to the park’s entrance.

Address:
Georgia, Tetritskaro District, Manglisi, Algeti National Park

Hours:
Open 24 hours, year-round

Admission:
Free of charge

Visitor Services Contact:
+995 595 08 60 80

Official Website:
http://apa.gov.ge

Email:
salo.kobaidze@gmail.com