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Ushguli is a remote and picturesque village located in the Svaneti region of Georgia. The main attractions include hiking to the Ushguli towers, visiting the Ushguli Church, and taking in the stunning views of Mount Shkhara. A hike to the glacier is also highly recommended, offering a mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery. Explore the local culture and history by visiting the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography in the nearby town of Mestia.
Ushguli is located in the upper reaches of the Inguri River at the southern foot of the Shkhara Mountains in the Caucasus Mountains, with an altitude of 2,060 to 2,200 meters. It has about 70 households and 200 residents and is considered the highest inhabited place in Europe.
It preserves various buildings and relics dating back to the 8th century, especially the watchtowers, ancient churches and murals that can be seen everywhere. In 1996, it was listed as a World Cultural Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization under the name "Upper Svaneti".
Ushguli is one of the highest inhabited villages in Europe, located at an altitude of 2,200 meters. It is famous for its medieval towers, which were built as defensive structures against invaders. The village is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique architectural heritage and cultural significance. Ushguli is also an important center for the Svan people, known for their language and traditions.
Ushguli is located in the Svaneti region of Georgia, approximately 130 km from the town of Mestia. The most common way to get to Ushguli is by a 4x4 vehicle, as the roads are quite rugged. It is recommended to drive or hire a local taxi or tour service, especially in the summer when the roads are more accessible. There is no metro or bus service to Ushguli due to its remote location.
Ushguli is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is more stable and the roads are accessible. Winter months (November to April) can be harsh, with heavy snow making travel difficult.
There is no general entrance fee to visit Ushguli, but some attractions such as the Svaneti Museum in Mestia or guided tours may have an entry cost. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum or through local tour operators for guided tours.
For most attractions in Ushguli, advance booking is not required. However, if you plan to visit in peak season or require a guided tour, it's advisable to book your tour or tickets in advance, especially during the summer months when the area sees more visitors.
Ushguli can be explored in one or two days, depending on the activities you choose. A full day is enough to see the main sights, such as the towers, church, and glaciers. If you want to explore the surrounding areas or take longer hikes, consider staying an extra day.
The must-see highlights include the Ushguli Towers, the Church of the Virgin Mary, the nearby glacier, and the stunning views of Mount Shkhara, the highest peak in Georgia. The village itself, with its traditional Svaneti architecture, is a highlight as well.
Guided tours are available in Ushguli and can be arranged through local tour agencies. Most guides speak English, Georgian, and Russian. Audio guides are not commonly available, but personal guides will provide in-depth explanations of the area’s history and culture.
The best viewpoints in Ushguli include the top of the village where the towers stand, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The hike towards the Shkhara Glacier provides amazing photo opportunities as well. The Church of the Virgin Mary also offers a great spot for photos with the village in the backdrop.
A recommended itinerary includes exploring the village and its towers, visiting the Church of the Virgin Mary, and taking a short hike to the glacier. If time allows, consider visiting nearby attractions in the region such as the village of Zhabeshi or the town of Mestia.
There are no special light shows or night visits in Ushguli. The village is small and remote, and most activities are best done during daylight hours. The starry night skies, however, can offer a breathtaking view if you're camping or staying overnight in the area.
Ushguli is less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in Georgia, but it can get busy during the summer months, especially from June to September. The least crowded times to visit are in the shoulder seasons (May, October) or during winter (if you enjoy snow and winter activities).
Facilities in Ushguli are basic, with a few small guesthouses, shops, and cafes. There are no large restaurants or supermarkets, so it's a good idea to bring any necessary supplies with you. Toilets are available in guesthouses and some public areas, but they may not always be fully modern.
Due to the village’s steep terrain and rugged roads, Ushguli is not very accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and able-bodied visitors who are physically fit will enjoy the experience, especially if they enjoy hiking and exploring remote areas.
Cash is preferred in Ushguli, and you should bring enough cash with you as card payments are rarely accepted. ATMs are available in Mestia, but not in Ushguli itself.
There are a few small cafes and guesthouses in Ushguli where you can try traditional Georgian dishes such as khachapuri and khorovats. More dining options are available in Mestia, which is a larger town nearby.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some of the local cafes in Ushguli, though choices are limited. Halal food options may not be readily available, as the cuisine in the region is traditionally meat-heavy.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Ushguli that offer a simple and authentic experience. Notable options include "Ushguli Guesthouse" and "Shkhara Hotel." For more luxurious accommodations, you may want to stay in Mestia, a short drive away.
Nearby attractions include the town of Mestia, the Svaneti Museum, and the villages of Zhabeshi and Latali. If you enjoy hiking, you can also visit the Koruldi Lakes or take a more challenging hike to the Shkhara Glacier.
There are a few souvenir shops in Ushguli selling local crafts, woolen items, traditional Svaneti jewelry, and wooden artifacts. The typical souvenirs are handmade products, including scarves, hats, and wooden carvings.
To continue your trip after visiting Ushguli, you can take a 4x4 vehicle back to Mestia or other parts of the Svaneti region. Taxis and private cars are the best way to get around as public transportation is limited in this remote area.
