Kutaisi: Chiatura Cable Cars & Katskhi Pillar Guided Tour
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Take a guided tour from Kutaisi to explore the hidden gems of the Imereti region. Visit the Katskhi Pillar, a 40-meter-high limestone monolith with a church on top.
The next stop will be the mining town of Chiatura, once number 1 in manganese mining, and was renowned for its unique Soviet-era cable car system, which was installed in the 1950s to transport miners and residents up and down the steep hillsides. Believe it or not, until today cable cars are one of the main means of public transport for the locals. The old cable cars were changed to the new ones, but you will see some of the old cable cars, aka "flying coffins" hanging on the abandoned lines. You will take a ride on a new Chiatura gondola lift and feel like a local for some time. You will spot Soviet monuments and mosaics scattered around Chiatura, and also see typical soviet residential buildings.
After a walk in Chiatura, continue to the Mghvimevi convent, which is carved in rock. In the evening return to Kutaisi.
Additional Info
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
WiFi on board
English speaking guide
New Cable Car ride
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch
What To Expect
Katskhi Pillar
Katskhi pillar is a spectacular 40 m. high rock with a church on top. There is rarely a chance to go up, as monk is living there permanently, even his brothers only communicate with him by bring food and with the help of the rope. You can take breathtaking photos of the pillar on the way or from the parking lot. However, there is a church and monastery on the ground level. So it is not a very long visit, but definitely worth it.
Cableways Chiatura
Chiatura is very important industrial town in western Georgia, it is one of the main mines of manganese. It is also extremely famous for its rope cable cars, which was built in the 50s as a mean of transport for the mine workers. You will take a ride on one of the new lines.
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Kutaisi: Chiatura Cable Cars & Katskhi Pillar Guided Tour
Reviews
7 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
We enjoyed this day trip...
Theresa R,
Jul 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00We enjoyed this day trip with different kinds of stops very much! It was a good mixture between landscapes, architecture and history (from soviet times as well as before). It was also very interactive, as we got to ride on the old and new cable cars of Chiatura. The tour guide was very kind and told us a lot of interesting facts about Georgia! Thank you!
An interesting excursion...
Mario K,
Feb 26, 2025
- Viator
4.00An interesting excursion that will appeal to fans of history, religion and technology, full of beautiful views. Guide knows what he's talking about. The small van we were travelling in was quite cramped (but the train to Chiatura is currently not running, so there is no choice). Keep in mind that you may get muddy, so choose appropriate clothing.
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Operated by Megobari Tours Georgia