MyBakuriani

Bakuriani

Mountains, snow, forests, and a different experience in every season. Located in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of southern Georgia, at an altitude of approximately 1,700 meters above sea level, Bakuriani is one of Georgia’s best-known mountain resorts. In winter, it is particularly popular for skiing and other snow activities, while in summer visitors are drawn by its forests, nature, fresh mountain air, and peaceful alpine surroundings. The Bakuriani Resort Guide covers everything you need to know before your visit — when to come, which area to choose, where the ski lifts are located, how to get to Bakuriani, where to stay, where to eat, and what to do at the resort.

Bakuriani at a glance

Where
Borjomi Municipality, Samtskhe-Javakheti
Elevation
About 1,700 m above sea level
From Tbilisi
About 180 km by road, usually 2.5 to 3.5 hours
From Borjomi
About 30 km
Ski season
December — March* The length of the season depends on snow and weather conditions.
Climate
January averages about −7 °C, August about 15 °C

When should you visit Bakuriani?

❄️ Winter Winter is the ski season in Bakuriani. It generally runs from December to March, although the operating periods of the ski lifts and slopes depend on snow and weather conditions. The main ski areas in Bakuriani are Didveli, Kokhta, Mitarbi, and 25s Ski Area. Didveli and Mitarbi offer a wider range of options for skiers of different skill levels, while 25s Ski Area is particularly suitable for beginners and children learning to ski. If you are travelling with children or learning to ski for the first time, 25s Ski Area is one of the options worth considering. Before planning your trip, check the specific opening dates and current operating status of the ski lifts.

☀️ Summer In summer, Bakuriani is a great destination for enjoying mountain nature and a cool climate. Popular activities include hiking, cycling, horseback riding, jeep tours, paragliding, and other outdoor activities. The Bakuriani Alpine Botanical Garden is an interesting destination for nature lovers, while the resort’s parks and forest trails offer opportunities for more relaxed walks and peaceful outdoor time.

Bakuriani has hosted several major international competitions. In 2023, the resort hosted the FIS Freestyle, Snowboard and Freeski World Championships, featuring 30 medal events. It was the first World Championships of this scale in snow sports to be held in Georgia. Bakuriani has also hosted FIS World Cup events, including competitions in Moguls and Ski Cross during the 2023–2024 season.

The resort's areas

When choosing accommodation in Bakuriani, location is one of the most important factors. On MyBakuriani, the resort is divided into four designated areas to make it easier to find the location that suits you best. Each area has its own page where you can learn about its location, surroundings, and key nearby places, as well as browse the apartments and cottages available in that area.

Skiing

The main ski areas in Bakuriani are Didveli, Kokhta, and Mitarbi, where the ski lifts are operated by Mountain Trails Agency (MTA). The highest lift in Didveli reaches approximately 2,702 meters above sea level. The MTA ski pass is valid across all three areas, allowing skiers to use the lifts in Didveli, Kokhta, and Mitarbi with a single pass. In addition to the MTA-operated areas, Bakuriani also has the Crystal and 25s Ski Area, which are operated by private companies and require separate lift tickets.

For the zones, the season and where to check opening dates, read the full ski-lift guide.

How to get to Bakuriani

Bakuriani is located approximately 180 km from Tbilisi and about 30 km from Borjomi. Visitors usually reach the resort by car, private transfer, taxi, or minibus. One of the main routes from Tbilisi to Bakuriani passes through Borjomi. In winter, especially during snow and icy conditions, it is important to check road conditions and travel conditions in advance. For detailed information about ski lifts, ski areas, and the ski season, see Complete Ski Lift Guide. For transport options and practical winter travel advice, see How to Get to Bakuriani.

Where to stay, eat and what to do

Choose a place to stay among apartments and cottages for daily rent and hotels, or look at property for sale if you are thinking of buying. For meals see restaurants and cafés; for the days themselves, sports schools, equipment rental, snowmobiles, horses and other activities. A transfer or taxi and local handymen and cleaning are on the same platform, and the blog carries news and tips.

Frequently asked questions

When does the ski season in Bakuriani start?

The ski season in Bakuriani usually starts in December and runs until March, although the opening dates of the ski lifts and slopes depend on snow and weather conditions. During the 2025–2026 season, the Kokhta ski lifts opened on December 20, while the opening dates for other ski areas were announced gradually. Before planning your trip, check the current operating status and schedule of the ski lifts and slopes with the relevant operator.

How far is Bakuriani from Tbilisi?

About 180 km by road, usually 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic and weather. The road goes through Borjomi.

Which area is best for beginners?

If you are learning to ski for the first time or travelling with children, 25s Ski Area is one of the most convenient choices. The area is suitable for beginners and is particularly popular with children. Didveli also has slopes suitable for beginners and offers a wider range of options, making it a good choice for those who want to progress to more varied slopes after learning the basics. Kokhta and Mitarbi offer more varied and relatively more challenging terrain and are particularly appealing to more experienced skiers. Crystal also has slopes for beginners and a separate learning area for children, making it another good option for families. If you are travelling with children and want activities beyond skiing, Amirani Park is a good addition to your itinerary, especially for a relaxed family day. Quick choice: - 👧 Child / first time learning → 25s Ski Area - 🎿 Beginner, but want more space and options → Didveli - 👨‍👩‍👧 Family + children learning to ski → 25s Ski Area or Crystal - ⛷️ Already an experienced skier → Kokhta / Mitarbi

Is there a train to Bakuriani?

The historic narrow-gauge railway known as “Kukushka” connects Bakuriani with Borjomi. The railway has operated since 1902 and is recognized as a cultural heritage monument. The Borjomi–Bakuriani passenger service is currently suspended. In April 2026, Georgian Railway announced the full rehabilitation of the line, including the railway infrastructure, rolling stock, and stations. Passenger services are planned to resume after the rehabilitation is completed. Before planning your trip, check the current operating status and timetable of the Kukushka with Georgian Railway.

What is there to do in Bakuriani in summer?

In summer, Bakuriani is particularly appealing for active outdoor recreation and mountain activities. 🥾 Hiking — explore forest and mountain trails, including routes towards the Bakuriani Alpine Botanical Garden. 🚴 Cycling and MTB — cycling tours and mountain biking are available in Bakuriani and the surrounding area. 🐎 Horseback riding — enjoy horseback rides through the forests and surrounding mountain areas. 🚙 Jeep tours — popular destinations include the Tsratskaro Pass and Tabatskuri Lake, which can be visited on a day trip from Bakuriani. 🪂 Paragliding — paragliding is also available in Bakuriani, although flights depend on weather conditions. 🌲 Relaxed outdoor activities — take walks in the parks and forests, enjoy a picnic in nature, or simply make the most of Bakuriani’s cool mountain climate. 🌊 Tabatskuri Lake — for a longer day trip, travelling from Bakuriani to Tabatskuri Lake by jeep or another high-clearance vehicle is an interesting summer option.

Sources

Facts checked: October 3, 2026