Things To Do
in Khashuri

Khashuri is a small, practical railway and road hub in central Georgia, known for its soviet-era architecture, lively market, and utility as a stopover between Tbilisi and western Georgia. The town sits near the foothills of the Trialeti range and offers easy access to nearby natural attractions like Borjomi and alpine meadows. Visitors find a mix of local daily life, traditional Georgian hospitality, and straightforward services for travelers and drivers.

Khashuri is best experienced as a low-key base for exploring surrounding valleys, sampling regional cuisine, and watching everyday Georgian small-town rhythms.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Khashuri Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Stroll through the charming streets, admiring the traditional architecture and local crafts. Grab a fresh pastry and coffee from a nearby bakery to fuel your exploration.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Georgian dishes like khachapuri and khinkali. Afterward, visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up some handmade souvenirs. Take a moment to relax in one of the nearby parks, soaking in the local ambiance.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local wine bar to taste some of the excellent Georgian wines. Engage with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying the warm hospitality of the region. End your day with a traditional Georgian dinner, accompanied by folk music and dance performances.

day 2
Nature Walks in the Surrounding Hills
morning
:

Rise early and prepare for a nature walk in the beautiful hills surrounding Khashuri. The crisp morning air and stunning views will invigorate you as you trek through lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint along the trail.

afternoon
:

After your hike, return to Khashuri for lunch and refuel with hearty local dishes. Spend the early afternoon visiting the nearby Mtkvari River, where you can relax by the water or try your hand at fishing. The tranquil setting is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

evening
:

As evening approaches, consider visiting a local family home for an authentic Georgian supra (feast). Experience the warmth of Georgian hospitality as the host shares stories and traditions over a delightful meal. The evening concludes with traditional songs and toasting, creating unforgettable memories.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant$20-40
Coffee$1.50-3
🚕Short taxi ride (in-town)$2-6
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$30-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Convenient transport hub and stopover between regions
  • Authentic small-town Georgian life and affordable prices
  • Easy access to nearby nature and Borjomi attractions
  • Friendly local hospitality and traditional food
  • Limited nightlife and cultural attractions within the town itself
  • Smaller selection of hotels and services compared with larger cities
  • Some language barriers—English may be limited outside tourist spots
  • Public transport schedules can be irregular for remote destinations
  • "გამარჯობა (gamardjoba)" - Hello
  • "გმადლობთ (gmadlobt)" - Thank you
  • "ბოდიში (bodishi)" - Sorry / Excuse me
  • "რამდენი ღირს? (ramdeni ghirs?)" - How much does it cost?
  • "სად არის ...? (sad aris ...?)" - Where is ...?

Places to Visit in Khashuri

Visit one of these nice places.

Khashuri Railway Station

A photogenic example of Soviet-era transport architecture—good for shots of trains, platforms and industrial details.

Central Market

Colourful market scenes with produce, cheeses, herbs and lively vendor portraits; excellent for candid local life photography.

Viewpoints over the Trialeti Foothills

Short drives outside town lead to vantage points offering sweeping valley and mountain views, ideal at sunrise or sunset.

Local Orthodox Churches

Small village churches and graveyards nearby provide atmospheric architecture and cultural context shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Khashuri

Cuisine around Khashuri follows classic central Georgian and regional flavors: rich stews, grilled meats, fresh bread, cheeses and locally produced wine and chacha. Meals emphasize seasonal produce, walnuts, herbs and dairy from nearby villages. Expect hearty portions and an emphasis on communal dining, with simple family-run eateries offering the most authentic tastes. Snacks and street food are available at markets and transport hubs for travelers on the move.

Khashuri Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khinkali

Georgian dumplings filled with spiced meat (or mushrooms/cheese for vegetarian versions); widely available at local eateries and markets.

Must-Try!

Mtsvadi

Georgian shashlik — skewered, grilled meat — commonly found in small restaurants and roadside stalls around Khashuri.

Pkhali

Cold vegetable and walnut purée served as a starter; excellent for vegetarians and a staple at family-style tables.

Churchkhela

Traditional snack made from grape must and nuts, often sold at markets and ideal for taking on hikes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Khashuri Central Market

Busy market near the town center offering seasonal fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, preserves and street snacks; try fresh bread, cheeses and churchkhela here.

Railway Station Stalls

Small food stalls and kiosks for fast, affordable snacks, pastries and tea—popular with travelers and truck drivers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Khashuri has a transitional climate influenced by its central location and nearby mountains: warm, dry summers and cool to cold winters with occasional snow in higher areas. Spring and autumn are mild with variable weather, making them pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and Hospitality

Georgians are hospitable—greet with a friendly 'gamardjoba' and expect genuine invitations for tea or food. Accepting local hospitality respectfully is customary.

Respect at the Table

Food is often shared family-style. Try a little of everything offered, and if you don’t eat something, decline politely rather than refuse bluntly.

Dress and Behavior

Modest dress is appreciated in religious sites; remove hats when entering churches and speak softly. Public displays of loud or rude behavior are frowned upon.

Photography Sensitivity

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural settings or private property; many locals are happy to pose if asked courteously.

Safety Guide

Safety

Khashuri is generally safe for travelers with low violent crime rates; normal precautions against petty theft apply—watch belongings in markets and on public transport. Road safety can be an issue: watch for heavy trucks and local driving styles on regional roads. Avoid wandering alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep emergency contacts and local embassy numbers handy.

Tipping in Khashuri

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, leaving 5–10% for good service is normal; small tips to taxi drivers, guides or hotel staff are welcome. In very small cafés or markets, rounding up is sufficient.

Payment Methods

Cash (Georgian lari) is widely used, especially in markets, small eateries and rural areas. Larger restaurants and some hotels accept cards. ATMs are available in town but carry cash for remote purchases and public transport.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm, dry days are typical and perfect for hiking and outdoor dining; afternoons can be hot so plan strenuous activities for morning/evening. Summer festivals and markets are active, and natural spots are lush and accessible.

Autumn

Crisp air and colorful foliage make this an ideal time for photography and short treks; harvest season brings an abundance of fresh produce and local wine tastings.

Winter

Winters can be cold with snow in higher elevations; Khashuri itself is quieter and some rural roads or trails may be difficult. Heating is available in guesthouses but pack warm layers.

Spring

Wildflowers and melting snow create scenic landscapes; weather can be changeable—bring a light waterproof jacket for occasional showers.

Nightlife Guide

Khashuri at Night

Khashuri’s nightlife is low-key and centered on cafés, small bars and house restaurants rather than clubs. Evenings are relaxed—expect local music in some venues and friendly gatherings at wine bars or guesthouses. For a livelier night out, travelers often go to larger nearby towns like Borjomi or Tbilisi.

Hiking in Khashuri

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park (access from nearby towns)

One of Georgia’s largest national parks with well-marked trails, forests, mineral springs and wildlife; day trips or guided hikes are possible from Khashuri.

Trialeti Range Trails

Network of trails in the foothills offering mountain views, alpine meadows and traditional villages—suitable for half-day to full-day hikes.

Local River Valley Walks

Easier, family-friendly walks along nearby rivers and small canyons perfect for picnics, birdwatching and short nature outings.

Airports

How to reach Khashuri by plane.

Tbilisi International Airport

The main international gateway to Georgia with frequent domestic and international flights; reachable from Khashuri by car or bus services—allow a couple of hours for travel depending on traffic.

Kutaisi International Airport

Serves budget international routes and some domestic connections; accessible by road from Khashuri and useful for travelers arriving on low-cost carriers.

Batumi International Airport

Located on the Black Sea coast and farther away; an option if combining a trip to western Georgia or the seaside with a visit to Khashuri.

Getting Around

Walkability

Khashuri is compact and generally walkable in the central area with short distances between market, station and cafés. Side streets and peripheral parts may be hillier or less pedestrian-friendly, so walking shoes are recommended and taxis are inexpensive for longer hops.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Georgians

The majority population, speaking Georgian and practicing local traditions; family and community ties are important.

Older Residents and Rural Families

Like many regional towns, Khashuri has a noticeable proportion of older residents and families tied to agriculture or small trades.

Small Minority Communities

There are small numbers of ethnic minorities present in the wider region; local culture is predominantly Georgian with Orthodox Christian traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular spectator and participation sport; local kids and amateurs play in fields and small pitches around town.

Rugby

Rugby has a strong following across Georgia and you’ll find local interest in matches and sometimes informal games.

Wrestling and Traditional Martial Sports

Combat sports and wrestling have cultural roots in the region and are practiced at community sports clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Khashuri is generally light compared with major cities, though the town handles significant transit trucks and regional traffic because of its rail and road junction. Public transport consists of minibuses (marshrutkas), regional buses and infrequent local taxis; trains connect Khashuri to other parts of Georgia but schedules should be checked in advance.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Khashuri.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common (pkhali, lobio, cheeses, eggplant dishes). Ask for vegetable versions of soups or khinkali with cheese/mushroom. Family eateries are usually accommodating.

Vegan

Vegan choices exist but are more limited; markets provide fresh vegetables and beans, and you can request simple vegetable stews or salads without dairy or bread containing milk.

Gluten-free

Bread is central to meals, but many dishes like grilled meats, stews and salads are naturally gluten-free. Specify 'no bread' and confirm ingredients at restaurants; cross-contamination is possible in home-style kitchens.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

The town has basic medical clinics and a small hospital handling routine care and emergencies. For specialized treatment or major emergencies, transfer to larger hospitals in Tbilisi or regional centers is common—medical evacuation and private transport options exist. Carry any necessary medications and travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Discover Georgia

Read more in our Georgia 2025 Travel Guide.

Georgia Travel Guide