Svaneti is a historical region in northwest Georgia, bordering Russia. Sitting in the southern Greater Caucasus mountain range, it's characterized by snowcapped peaks and deep gorges. The medieval villages of Upper Svaneti are dotted with koshki, defensive stone structures built from the 9th century onwards. The village of Chazhashi in eastern Svaneti’s Ushguli area features many of these towers.
West of Chazhashi, the town of Mestia has a ski station and the Museum of History and Ethnography, home to a collection of old photographs of Svaneti. Also in its collection are religious manuscripts and icons like golden altar crosses, plus reproductions of church murals. Northwest of Mestia, the village of Mazeri in the Dolra River Valley is a gateway to the western glaciers of Mt. Ushba. The twin-peaked mountain overlooks Inguri Gorge and is a destination for challenging climbing and hiking as well as horseback riding and mountain biking.
When to visit
Most travelers visit in summer (Jul–Aug). Ski season runs approximately mid-Dec–mid May, while hiking season is approximately Jun–Oct. The climate is marked by rain year-round, with heavy snowfall in winter; temperatures vary by elevation. The region is known for traditional festivals, particularly Kvirikoba (Kala village, Jul), featuring religious ceremonies and celebratory feasts.
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