Khashuri, Georgia’s Stunning Crossroads, Cuisine & Countryside Charm (2026)
While crowds flock to the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi, just 90 minutes west by train, Khashuri, Georgia delivers the authentic, unhurried rhythm of provincial Georgian life without the tourist markups. Here, the main attraction isn’t a single monument, but the experience of daily life along the historic Surami Pass, where you can sip coffee with locals for 3 GEL and watch the constant, gentle flow of a nation crossing from east to west. This is Georgia’s true crossroads.
Why Khashuri, Georgia Stands Out
A large green field with trees, Khashuri, Georgia
- Historic Architecture: The 19th-century Khashuri Train Station, a classic example of Imperial Russian railway architecture, remains the beating heart of the town and a living piece of Transcaucasian history.
- Cultural Scene: The annual “Khashuroba” festival in late September celebrates the town’s founding with traditional Georgian polyphonic singing, folk dancing, and a massive supra (feast) in the central park.
- Local Specialties: You must try Khashuri Lobiani, a specific, bean-filled bread that’s denser and more richly spiced than versions found elsewhere, best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Pro Tip: For the best atmosphere with the fewest crowds, visit on a weekday outside of September. The weather is ideal in May and early October, and you’ll have the town’s cozy cafes and parks largely to yourself.
Map of Khashuri, Georgia
Use these interactive maps to explore Khashuri, Georgia and plan your route:
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Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: Fly into Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) or Kutaisi International Airport (KUT). From Tbilisi, a taxi to Khashuri costs ~120 GEL (1.5 hours). A much cheaper option is the train or marshrutka (minibus). Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: Khashuri is a major stop on the Tbilisi-Batumi and Tbilisi-Zugdidi lines. The trip from Tbilisi takes about 90 minutes and costs from 10 GEL for a standard seat. Trains are frequent and scenic. Reserve tickets at Trainline or the national railway website.
- By Car: Khashuri sits directly on the E60 highway, Georgia’s main east-west artery. The drive from Tbilisi is straightforward. Parking is generally easy and free in town. Compare car rentals at RentalCars.com.
- Local Transport: The town is very walkable. For trips to nearby villages, use marshrutkas (fixed-route minivans) departing from the central station area; fares are 2-5 GEL. Taxis within town are inexpensive (5-8 GEL per ride).
Best Time to Visit
Khashuri enjoys a temperate climate with distinct seasons. The shoulder months offer the perfect balance of pleasant weather and local immersion.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Warm, 22°C to 28°C (72°F-82°F), occasional rain. | Lush green landscapes, vibrant outdoor market life, perfect for day trips to the Borjomi Gorge. Moderate local crowds. |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cold, -2°C to 5°C (28°F-41°F), occasional snow. | Atmospheric, quiet streets, cozy cafes, and the stunning sight of the Surami Mountains dusted with snow. Very few tourists. |
| Shoulder (Apr–May/Sep–Oct) | Mild, 12°C to 20°C (54°F-68°F), most pleasant. | Ideal for walking, photography, and enjoying parks. The September Khashuroba festival is a major cultural draw. The best overall experience. |
Budgeting for Khashuri, Georgia
A serene landscape featuring a historic church against the backdrop of the …, Khashuri, Georgia
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Guesthouse: 80-120 GEL/night | Local Hotel: 150-220 GEL/night | Boutique Hotel/Rental: 250+ GEL/night |
| Meals | Bakery/Budget Cafe: 15-25 GEL | Local Restaurant: 30-50 GEL | Fine Dining (limited): 70+ GEL |
| Transport | Marshrutkas/Walking: 5 GEL/day | Local Taxis: 20 GEL/day | Private Driver: 150+ GEL/day |
| Activities | Parks, Museums: 0-10 GEL | Guided Tours: 50-80 GEL | Private Excursions: 200+ GEL |
| Daily Total | 100-160 GEL | 250-370 GEL | 670+ GEL |
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Khashuri History Museum | A small but fascinating museum detailing the town’s role as a vital transport hub from the Silk Road era to the Soviet period. | 10:00-18:00 (Closed Mon) | 5 GEL |
| St. George’s Church | This beautiful 19th-century Orthodox church, with its distinctive green dome, is a serene spot and an active place of worship. | 9:00-19:00 daily | Free (donation) |
| The Central Park & Monument | The social heart of town, perfect for people-watching, with a poignant WWII memorial honoring local heroes. | Open 24/7 | Free |
| Local Bazaar | Not a tourist market, but where locals shop for fresh produce, spices, homemade cheese (sulguni), and, of course, fresh lobiani. | 7:00-15:00 daily | Free |
3-Day Itinerary: Khashuri, Georgia’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Day 1: Immersion in the Crossroads
- Morning (7-9 AM): Start at the source of Khashuri’s fame: the Train Station. Watch the comings and goings over a strong Georgian coffee (3 GEL) at the station café. Note the architectural blend of Tsarist and Soviet elements.
- Afternoon (12-3 PM): Visit the Khashuri History Museum. For lunch, head to Restaurant Kolkheti on Kostava Street for a massive plate of Khinkali (dumplings) and a tomato-cucumber salad (about 25 GEL total).
- Evening (6-8 PM): Take a leisurely stroll through Central Park. For dinner, find a table at Marani Khashuri for authentic clay-pot dishes (chakapuli) and local wine by the carafe.
Day 2: Culture, Cuisine & Countryside
- Morning (9 AM): Visit the bustling Local Bazaar. Buy some churchkhela (Georgian “snickers”) and sulguni cheese for snacks. Then, visit St. George’s Church for a moment of quiet reflection.
- Afternoon (1 PM): Take a short 5 GEL marshrutka ride (15 mins) to the village of Surami. Explore the imposing 12th-century Surami Fortress (entry 7 GEL) for panoramic views of the pass. Have lunch at Cafe Surami near the fortress gate.
- Evening (7 PM): Back in Khashuri, enjoy a casual dinner at a bakery, sampling the town’s signature Khashuri Lobiani. Your best bet is the bakery on Tsereteli Avenue.
Day 3: The Borjomi Escape
- Morning (8 AM): Catch an early marshrutka from the station to Borjomi (about 10 GEL, 45-minute journey). This famous spa town is a highlight of the region.
- Afternoon (12 PM): Explore Borjomi Central Park (entry 10 GEL), taste the legendary mineral water from the spring, and ride the cable car. For lunch, try the trout at Restaurant Borjomi near the park entrance.
- Evening (5 PM): Return to Khashuri. For your final evening, enjoy a relaxed supra (feast) at a local family-run guesthouse, which can often be arranged in advance for ~50 GEL per person with unlimited food and wine.
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: Georgian is the official language. Learn “Gamarjoba” (Hello), “Didi Madloba” (Thank you very much), and “Gaumarjos!” (Cheers!). Younger people often know basic English, but a few Georgian phrases go a long way.
- Customs: When invited to a table, the tamada (toastmaster) leads structured toasts. Listen respectfully and drink when toasted (sipping is acceptable). It’s polite to try everything offered.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is standard for good service. For taxi drivers, rounding up is customary.
- Dress Code: Casual is fine for daily wear. When visiting churches, women should cover their heads (a scarf is often provided) and wear skirts/dresses below the knee; men should avoid shorts.
- Business Hours: Shops typically open 10:00-19:00. Many smaller businesses close for a long lunch (14:00-15:00). Banks are open 10:00-17:00 on weekdays.
Where to Eat: Khashuri, Georgia’s Best Bites
Dining in Khashuri is about hearty, home-style Georgian classics. You won’t find molecular gastronomy here, but you will find soul-satisfying meals often cooked by a family matriarch. Portions are generous, and wine is considered a food group.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Khashuri Lobiani: A bean-filled bread, distinct for its thick, spiced bean paste and crispy, doughy exterior. Best eaten warm from any local bakery, especially in the morning.
- Mtsvadi (Shashlik): Georgian barbecue, typically pork or veal, cooked over vine cuttings for a smoky flavor. Found at any traditional restaurant like Marani Khashuri.
- Adjaruli Khachapuri: The boat-shaped cheese bread from the Adjara region is ubiquitous and delicious here. For a great one, try Cafe Lali near the park.
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Bakery on Tsereteli Ave | Fresh Lobiani, Khachapuri, pastries | 3-10 GEL per item |
| Mid-range | Restaurant Kolkheti (Kostava St.) | Hearty meat dishes, Khinkali, family-style plates | 25-45 GEL per person |
| Fine dining | Marani Khashuri (Central) | Clay-pot stews (chakapuli, chanakhi), extensive local wine list | 50-80 GEL per person |
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Khashuri is mostly comprised of guesthouses and small local hotels, offering excellent value and personal service. Staying centrally near the park or station gives you easy access to everything. Compare prices and book at Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation
- Central (near Park & Station): The most convenient area. You’ll be within walking distance of all restaurants, transport, and main sights. Can be slightly busier during the day. Ideal for first-time visitors.
- Residential Streets (south of the center): Quieter, with more guesthouse options often featuring gardens. A 10-15 minute walk to the center. Perfect for travelers seeking a more local, peaceful stay.
A woman sits at the Chronicle of Georgia monument in Tbilisi with a blue sk…, Khashuri, Georgia
FAQs: Your Khashuri, Georgia Questions Answered
1. Is Khashuri, Georgia safe at night?
Yes, Khashuri is generally very safe. Violent crime is rare. As in any town, practice basic caution: stick to well-lit areas at night and be aware of your belongings in crowded places like the station. Locals are typically helpful and friendly.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
The Georgian Lari (GEL) is the currency. As of writing, 1 USD ≈ 2.7 GEL. Credit/debit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is king at the bazaar, in bakeries, for marshrutkas, and in taxis. Always carry some small bills.
3. How do I get from the airport to the city center?
From Tbilisi Airport (TBS), take a taxi directly to Khashuri (approx. 120 GEL, 1.5 hrs). The budget alternative is a taxi to Tbilisi’s Didube station (~30 GEL), then a marshrutka to Khashuri (10 GEL, 1.5 hrs). Book airport transfers at GetYourGuide for convenience.
4. Do I need to speak the local language?
No, but it helps. English is not widely spoken among older generations. Younger people and those in hospitality often know basics. Having Google Translate ready and learning a few Georgian phrases (hello, thank you, please) will significantly enhance your experience and earn you smiles.
5. What’s the appropriate dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing is perfect for daily exploration. Bring good walking shoes. Remember to have a scarf and a long skirt or pants for church visits. In summer, pack sun protection; in winter, a warm coat, hat, and gloves are essential.
