Gelati Monastery, Georgia - Timings, Tips & Things To Do

Gelati Monastery, Georgia: Overview

The Gelati Monastery, a world-famous heritage site, is on a wooded hillside located in the northeast of Kutaisi, featuring a golden Age architecture, and is one of Georgia’s most significant churches. Gelati is well-known as a cultural hub of Georgia, adorned with murals, frescoes, and mosaics. As a royal monastery, Gelati presents extensive lands which are endowed with icons, including the gold-mounted icon of the Virgin of Khakhuli, and highlights the power and culture of Eastern Christianity.

Stepping inside the Gelati Monastery in Georgia, explore the medieval frescoes and the mosaics. The church of St George is highlighted as a prayer and burial Chapel for both Georgia and Imereti. Gelati is also known as the largest medieval Orthodox monastery, which is different for its harmony while having a natural setting. Whether you are a hiker or a nature lover, the Gelati Monastery is a perfect, picturesque place surrounded by dense forests. So, plan your visit to the monastery now and admire the landscape.

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How To Reach Gelati Monastery

By Bus
Staying in Tbilisi, you can board a bus to Kutaisi, which will take approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes to reach the destination. After reaching Kutaisi, you can take a taxi to Gelati Monastery, and it will take around 12 minutes to reach there.
By train via Rioni
Take a train from Tbilisi to Rioni, and the train takes around 4 hours to reach Rioni and comes 3 times a day. From Rioni, you can hire a taxi to the Gelati Monastery and you will reach in 25 minutes to the destination.
By Car
If you prefer to travel by car while staying in Tbilisi, you can reach the Gelati Monastery in 2 hours and 45 minutes. Travelling by car can be convenient for you as it is a direct trip to the monastery.
By Minibus
Board a minibus from Tbilisi and reach the Kutaisi bus station, and it will take around 4 hours. From the bus station, travel by taxi to the Gelasti Monastery and you can reach in 15 minutes.

Best Time To Visit Gelati Monastery

Looking for a trip to Georgia’s Gelati Monastery, the best time to visit is between March to November. These months offer pleasant weather and great cultural experiences. When visiting in the spring and autumn seasons, the surrounding nature is at its peak around the monastery. It will be a great experience for you when visiting the Gelati Monastery in the early morning or late afternoon, as the place offers the best lighting for photography and there are fewer crowds. If you prefer to travel in the winter months and escape from the high heat, this will be an ideal time, as the monastery offers a peaceful charm to all.
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Tips To Visit Gelati Monastery

Dress modestly as the monastery is a religious site. Women must bring a scarf with them to cover their heads inside the churches.
Bring water with you to stay hydrated, especially in warmer months.
Don’t make noise when worshipping or praying, and respect the culture.
Before visiting the Gelati Monastery, inquire about the restrictions that are inside the monastery.
You must cover your shoulders and knees, and you can opt for longer skirts, trousers, or carry a shawl with you.
Learn about Gelati's history and artistic information through the guided tour.
Carry sunscreen and sunglasses with you when travelling in the summer months.

Things To Do at Gelati Monastery

Admire the main cathedral and the church with the stunning stonework.
Discover the academy building, which is a hub of scholarly where debates have been done and it contributes to Georgian’s golden age.
Capture a glimpse of the monastery’s rich architectural heritage offered by the smaller church of St. George and St. Nicholas.
When visiting the Gelati Monastery, combine your trip with exploring the nearby attractions, like the Motsameta Monastery.
Appreciate the beauty of frescoes and mosaics decorated with mural paintings.
Enjoy the religious and cultural events that take place in the Gelati Monastery during the Orthodox Easter.
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Quick INFO

Gelati Monastery Timings:

Monday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Time Required to Visit Gelati Monastery: 30 to 40 Minutes

Gelati Monastery location Map

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FAQs About Gelati Monastery

What is the importance of Gelati Monastery?

The Gelati Monastery in Georgia is significant as it is a center of both science and education. The academy in the monastery symbolises Georgian culture and spirituality while remaining an active place of worship.

Do people with disabilities have access to visit the Gelati Monastery?

Yes, people with disabilities have access to Gelati Monastery as there are ramps, elevators, and restrooms present for all.

Is there an entrance fee to visit the Gelati Monastery?

The entrance fee is free to visit Gelati Monastery, as you can explore the entire place, whether inside the church or the outdoor activities.

Is it allowed to take photographs at Gelati Monastery?

Yes, at the Gelati Monastery, you are allowed to take photos but there are some restrictions put on certain areas for photograph like you should not take photos inside the church.