The Sulfur Baths of Abanotubani

Tbilisi is an extraordinary city, rich in cultural treasures. To stroll through its ancient streets is to step into the soul of Georgia, and nowhere is this experience more vibrant than in the heart of the capital. Nestled beside the historic district of Old Tbilisi lies the famed neighborhood of Abanotubani—home to the city’s legendary sulfur baths, which draw their steamy waters from naturally occurring thermal springs. This iconic location is steeped in myth: the legend of King Vakhtang Gorgasali and his hunting falcon who pursued a pheasant here is immortalized by a striking monument depicting the predator and its prey, set before the Legvtakhevi Gorge.

Even the name “Tbilisi” echoes this thermal legacy; derived from the Georgian word “tbili,” it means “warm.” It is believed that the discovery of these hot sulfur springs prompted the foundation of the city itself. For centuries, the baths have been celebrated for their healing properties, serving not only as places of cleansing but also as sanctuaries for wellness. Throughout their long history, some bathhouses were destroyed and rebuilt, yet the tradition has endured. Today, a visit to Abanotubani is considered a must for travelers exploring Georgia. The area is often bustling, and due to high demand, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance via official channels.

Currently, more than a dozen sulfur bathhouses operate in the Abanotubani district. The most renowned among them include the Colorful Bath (also known as the Orbeliani Bath), Mirzoev Bath, Samepo, Royal Bath, Irakli’s Bath, VIP, No. 5, and No. 7. Prices vary depending on the type of bath and the services selected. All establishments offer private rooms for groups of two or more. Budget-conscious visitors may opt for communal halls, available in Baths No. 5, Orbeliani, and Mirzoev. Entry to shared spaces generally costs around 20 GEL per hour, with additional fees for massages and spa treatments.

The architecture and interiors of Tbilisi’s sulfur baths reflect classic Eastern aesthetics. Many feature domed roofs punctuated with skylights and ventilation openings—these structures often become the subjects of travel photography. The picturesque setting also makes the baths a popular spot for wedding photo shoots. Among the many bathhouses, the most unforgettable is the Colorful Bath—known locally as the Orbeliani Bath. Resembling a madrasah more than a traditional bathhouse, it is adorned with striking blue tile mosaics that have earned it the affectionate nickname “The Blue Bath.”

Over the years, this bathhouse has welcomed many prominent figures from the worlds of art, literature, and politics. Among its distinguished guests were the Russian poet Alexander Pushkin and the French writer Alexandre Dumas. Their visits are commemorated with marble plaques at the entrance, and two rooms inside bear their names. Located at the end of Abano Street, the bath is open daily from 8:00 AM to midnight. During public holidays, advance bookings must be fully prepaid to secure a reservation.

Once owned by the noble Orbeliani family, the bathhouse stands in a neighborhood that celebrates Georgia’s tradition of religious harmony. Nearby, the red-brick minaret of a mosque serving the local Azerbaijani Muslim community rises just blocks from Christian churches and a synagogue—symbolizing centuries of peaceful coexistence.

Visitors should bring a towel, rubber-soled slippers, personal hygiene items, and a loofah or scrub glove. Most of these essentials can also be purchased from nearby bathhouse shops, with prices varying depending on the venue. It is strongly recommended to leave jewelry, cameras, and other electronics in lockers, as the high humidity and sulfur-rich steam may damage them.

Before stepping into the therapeutic waters, it’s helpful to understand their characteristics. Most notably, the baths emit a distinct, pungent odor—caused by methane gas—that can linger on skin and hair after bathing. However, this scent accompanies a cocktail of mineral-rich content: magnesium, potassium, lime, and sulfur, all of which are said to offer numerous health benefits.

Locals and visitors alike frequent the baths to alleviate chronic conditions and mental fatigue. Regular visits are believed to relieve various forms of arthritis, sciatica, and skin ailments. The warm mineral water stimulates circulation, stabilizes blood pressure, and simply elevates one’s mood. Bathing sessions are typically brief: soaking in the thermal pools is recommended for no longer than 10–12 minutes at a time, with no more than four immersions per session. The average water temperature ranges from 35°C to 40°C, with mornings being the warmest.

Legend holds that the future city of Tbilisi was born when King Vakhtang Gorgasali discovered the hot springs thanks to his falcon, which led him to a bubbling source of thermal water. So taken was he by the discovery that he ordered a bathhouse to be built on the very spot, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Georgia’s capital.

Over the centuries, the Abanotubani district expanded, with new bathhouses emerging as older ones fell to ruin. Some of the most ancient that still stand today include the Bath of King Irakli, the State Bath, Beboutov’s Bath, and Sumbatov’s Bath. Traditionally, the sulfur baths served not only hygienic purposes but also as social and cultural hubs. Important decisions were debated, business dealings made, and even marriage proposals discussed within their steamy chambers.

The sulfur baths are situated in the historic heart of Tbilisi, on the right bank of the Kura River. Look for Abano Street, along with Ioseb Grishashvili and Mirza Fatali Akhundov Streets—each lined with bathhouse façades. Reaching Abanotubani is easy by public transport, taxi, or car.

Many visitors arrive at the sulfur baths after exploring the Narikala Fortress, as a direct staircase leads down from the hilltop. This short route takes no more than seven minutes and passes the striking Jumah Mosque along the way.

OPENING HOURS
Daily from 09:00 AM to 11:00 PM

ENTRY FEES
Private rooms range from 100 to 600 GEL per hour

RESERVATIONS
Phone: +995 (322) 930-093
Email: contact@chreli-abano.ge
Website: www.chreli-abano.ge
Advance booking is required

ADDRESS
Abano Street, Tbilisi, Georgia — Tbilisi Sulfur Baths