Georgia’s oldest ski resort combines world-class slopes, pristine forests, and authentic mountain village charm just 180 km from Tbilisi.

Quick Facts

Location	Borjomi Municipality, Samtskhe-Javakheti Region
Elevation	1,700m (base) – 2,702m (summit)
Distance from Tbilisi	180 km (2.5–3 hours)
Distance from Kutaisi	150 km (2.5 hours)
Ski Season	Mid-December – Late March
Total Slopes	29 km across 5 ski areas
Lifts	11 lifts (gondolas, chairlifts, T-bars)
Day Pass Price	55 GEL (~$20)
Best For	Families, beginners, intermediate skiers

Why Choose Bakuriani?

Nestled in a volcanic caldera at 1,700 meters on the northern slopes of the Trialeti Range, Bakuriani has been Georgia’s winter playground since the 1930s. Originally developed as an Olympic training facility for Soviet athletes, it hosted slalom, bobsled, biathlon, and ski jumping competitions throughout the 20th century.

Today, Bakuriani has evolved into Georgia’s premier family resort while retaining its authentic mountain village character. Unlike purpose-built Gudauri, Bakuriani is a real town with schools, churches, local shops, and year-round residents—giving visitors a genuine taste of Georgian mountain life alongside their skiing adventures.

The resort gained international recognition by hosting the 2023 FIS World Championships for Freestyle, Snowboard, and Ski Cross events, cementing its reputation as a world-class winter sports venue.

What sets Bakuriani apart:

• Family-friendly atmosphere with gentle slopes perfect for children and beginners
• Beautiful forested terrain through pine and fir trees (unlike Gudauri’s open alpine slopes)
• More affordable than Gudauri with lower lift pass and accommodation prices
• Diverse non-skiing activities from alpine coasters to horse-drawn sleigh rides
• Therapeutic mountain air from surrounding coniferous forests
• Easy access via smooth, low-altitude roads from Tbilisi or Kutaisi
• Proximity to Borjomi with its famous mineral water springs just 30 km away

Ski Areas and Slopes

Bakuriani features five distinct ski areas, each catering to different skill levels. Unlike interconnected European resorts, these areas are separate and require transport between them.

Didveli – The Main Attraction

Elevation: 1,780m – 2,670m | Vertical Drop: 890m | Slopes: 14 km

Didveli is Bakuriani’s most popular and modern ski area, featuring Georgia’s only night skiing facilities. A state-of-the-art gondola whisks skiers up through dense forest to wide, well-groomed runs suitable for all levels.

• Modern 8-person gondola and chairlifts
• Mix of blue and red runs through beautiful forest scenery
• Night skiing on illuminated slopes (Friday–Sunday, 17:00–21:30)
• Mountain café at mid-station serving hot food and drinks
• Alpine coaster (toboggan run) operating year-round
• Distance from town center: 2 km

Kokhta – For Experienced Skiers

Elevation: 1,770m – 2,270m | Vertical Drop: 500m | Slopes: 3.1 km

Kokhta offers Bakuriani’s most challenging terrain with stunning panoramic views from the summit. On clear days, you can see across the entire Caucasus region.

• Two separate areas: Kokhta 1 and Tatra (Kokhta 2)
• Black runs with gradients up to 50% at the summit
• Red runs through scenic pine forest
• FIS-certified slopes at Tatra
• Chairlifts installed by Doppelmayr (2016)
• Distance from town center: 9 km (dirt road access can be rough)

Mitarbi – The New Frontier

Elevation: 2,000m – 2,400m | Vertical Drop: 400m

The newest addition to Bakuriani’s ski infrastructure, Mitarbi offers uncrowded slopes and excellent snow conditions at higher elevations. Still developing, this area attracts skiers seeking quieter runs away from the main crowds.

• Intermediate and advanced terrain
• Less crowded than Didveli and Kokhta
• Excellent powder conditions after fresh snowfall
• Connected to Kokhta area

25-Meter Slope (Joyland) – Beginner Paradise

Elevation: 1,700m | Slopes: Training runs

Located in the heart of Bakuriani town, the 25-meter slope is the perfect starting point for absolute beginners and children. Named for its gentle 25-meter gradient, this area features:

• Multiple rope tows and platter lifts
• Dedicated children’s ski school area
• Safe, controlled environment for first-timers
• Adjacent to Joyland amusement park
• Ice skating rink nearby
• Walking distance from most hotels

Crystal Ski Arena

A privately operated area requiring a separate ski pass. Known for newer facilities but also some operational inconsistencies reported by visitors. Features night skiing capabilities.

Lift Passes and Prices (2025/2026 Season)

Bakuriani offers excellent value compared to European ski resorts and even Georgia’s Gudauri.

Pass Type	Price (GEL)	Price (USD)
Adult Day Pass	55 GEL	~$20
Child Day Pass	Discounted	~$15
Night Skiing (Didveli)	30 GEL	~$11
Multi-day Passes	Available	Inquire locally

Important notes:

• Crystal Ski Arena requires a separate pass from the main MTA-operated lifts
• Season passes (Multicard) are valid at all four Georgian resorts: Gudauri, Bakuriani, Goderdzi, and Mestia
• Passes purchased at ticket booths at each ski area (online booking limited)
• Lift hours: Generally 10:00–17:00 (check status.mta.ski for real-time updates)

Equipment Rental and Ski Schools

Rental Shops

Numerous rental shops are located near Didveli and Kokhta base stations, as well as in town center near the 25-meter slope.

Average rental prices (2025/2026):

Equipment	Daily Price
Ski set (skis, boots, poles)	40–60 GEL
Snowboard set	40–60 GEL
Helmet	10–15 GEL

Tips:

• Quality varies significantly—inspect equipment before renting
• Book in advance during peak season (New Year, mid-February)
• Higher-end shops near major hotels offer better equipment

Ski Schools and Instructors

Bakuriani is arguably the best place to learn skiing in Georgia. The resort has a long tradition of ski instruction dating back to Soviet times when it trained Olympic athletes.

• Private lessons: 70–100 GEL per hour
• English-speaking instructors available at Didveli and Joyland
• Russian and Georgian instruction widely available
• Children’s ski camps throughout winter season

Recommended ski schools:

• Rati’s Skola (14, Kalandarishvili Street)
• Instructors available near the 25-meter slope and Didveli base

How to Get to Bakuriani

From Tbilisi

Distance: 180 km | Travel time: 2.5–3.5 hours

Option 1: Marshrutka (Minivan)

• Departs from Didube Bus Station (Bus Station Nige area)
• Direct vans at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00 and additional departures
• Fare: 15 GEL
• Duration: ~3 hours
• Terminates at Bakuriani Bus Station in town center

Option 2: Private Transfer

• Most comfortable option, especially with ski gear and children
• Sedan (1–3 passengers): from 345 GEL
• Minivan (4–7 passengers): from 535 GEL
• Door-to-door service with photo stops possible
• Book through hotels, GoTrip, or local transfer companies

Option 3: Self-Drive

• Fully sealed road, manageable in winter
• Winter tires mandatory (police checkpoints)
• Rental cars available with winter tires from Local Rent and other agencies
• Parking available at all ski areas (3–5 GEL/day)

Option 4: Train + Connection

• Train from Tbilisi Central to Borjomi (6:35 or 18:35 departure)
• Fare: 2 GEL | Duration: 4.5 hours
• From Borjomi: Taxi (60–70 GEL) or marshrutka (3 GEL, 45 minutes)
• Marshrutka departures from Borjomi: 8:30, 9:00, 10:30, 12:15, 15:00, 16:30

From Kutaisi

Distance: 150 km | Travel time: 2.5 hours

• Direct marshrutka from Kutaisi Central Bus Station at 10:00
• Or travel via Borjomi (marshrutka departures 8:20, 8:50, 9:30, 11:30)
• Fare to Borjomi: 15 GEL

The Kukushka Train (Currently Not Operating)

The legendary narrow-gauge “Kukushka” (Cuckoo) train connecting Borjomi and Bakuriani—one of Georgia’s most scenic railway journeys—is not operating for the 2025/2026 season. Service stopped during the COVID pandemic and there are currently no confirmed plans to resume operations. The 37 km route featured bridges designed by Gustave Eiffel and wound through spectacular Borjomistskali River valley scenery.

Getting Around Bakuriani

Bakuriani is relatively spread out compared to compact Gudauri. The two main ski areas (Didveli and Kokhta-Mitarbi) are 8 km apart (about 20 minutes by car).

Options:

• Walking: Town center and 25-meter slope easily walkable
• Taxi: Available throughout town; use Bolt app for best prices
• Car: Most convenient for accessing all ski areas
• Hotel shuttles: Many properties offer ski shuttle services

Note: Roads within Bakuriani are generally sealed but can be icy. The dirt road to Kokhta is particularly rough. Traffic becomes heavy during school holidays.

When to Visit: Best Time and Crowds

Peak Season (Avoid if Possible)

• December 30 – January 13: New Year holidays (extremely crowded, long lift queues)
• Mid-February: UAE mid-term break brings many Gulf visitors
• March 8–14: Georgian spring school holidays

Best Time to Visit

• Mid-January to early February: Good snow, manageable crowds
• Late February – early March: Most reliable snow conditions
• Weekdays: Significantly fewer crowds than weekends

Season Dates (2025/2026)

• Kokhta opening: December 20, 2025
• Full resort: December 27, 2025
• Season end: Late March 2026 (snow dependent)

Check real-time lift status: status.mta.ski

Where to Stay

Bakuriani offers diverse accommodation from budget guesthouses to luxury spa hotels. Prices typically double during New Year holidays.

Luxury Hotels

Kokhta Bakuriani (formerly Rooms Kokhta)

• 5-star boutique hotel with ski-in access to Kokhta lifts
• Stunning design, cozy lounge, excellent restaurant
• From ~$150/night

Bakuriani Inn

• 5-star hotel with indoor pool, spa, sauna, and fitness center
• Buffet breakfast, children’s playground
• From ~$70/night

Hotel Sapphire Bakuriani

• 5-star with outdoor pool, karaoke, kids’ club
• Mountain views, modern amenities
• From ~$100/night

The Grand Hotel Bakuriani

• Opened July 2024
• 5-star with garden, terrace, bar
• From ~$120/night

Mid-Range Options

Crystal Hotel & Spa

• Indoor pool, ski shuttle, spa treatments
• Near the Didveli area
• From ~$106/night

Area Park Bakuriani

• Modern apartments near Amirani Park
• Ski-to-door access, fully equipped kitchens
• From ~$60/night

Hotel King David Bakuriani

• 4-star with garden, children’s playground
• Good location in town
• From ~$50/night

Budget-Friendly

Guesthouses and Family Hotels

• Numerous options throughout town
• Home-cooked Georgian meals often included
• From $25–40/night

Private Apartments

• Available through Booking.com and Airbnb
• Kitchen facilities for self-catering
• From $30/night

Villa Mtashi

• Cabin-style houses, some with private saunas
• Near a 25-meter slope, sleeps up to 12
• From ~$80/night

Beyond Skiing: Activities for Everyone

Bakuriani excels at offering diverse activities beyond the slopes—making it ideal for mixed groups where not everyone skis.

Winter Activities

Didveli Alpine Coaster (Toboggan): A world-class toboggan track winding through the forest. Operates year-round and thrills both children and adults. Located at Didveli base station.

Snowmobiling: Explore the volcanic plateau and frozen landscapes on guided snowmobile tours. High-speed activity—ensure your travel insurance covers adventure motor sports.

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides: Traditional winter transportation in Bakuriani. Romantic rides through the village are available from local operators.

Ice Skating Public rinks at Bakuriani Park and Hotel Edem. Skate rental available.

Snow Tubing and Sledding: Designated areas throughout the resort, especially popular at Joyland.

Scenic Gondola Rides Non-skiers can ride the Didveli gondola for stunning mountain views. Sunset rides are particularly magical.

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking: Explore snow-covered forests on foot. Guided tours are available through hotels and tour operators.

Family Activities

Joyland Amusement Park is located in the town center with entertainment and rides for young children. Safe play areas, snow activities, and refreshments.

Amirani Park Family-friendly park with sledding, ice skating, and winter activities.

Bakuriani Kids Park Dedicated children’s area with safe snow activities.

Year-Round Activities

Bakuriani Botanical Garden opened in 1910, featuring acres of regional and Asian flora. Popular hiking destination in the summer months.

Horseback Riding Available year-round through local operators and hotels.

Paragliding Bakuriani’s microclimate is excellent for paragliding. Mount Kokhta is a favorite launch site.

Hiking and Mountain Biking: Numerous trails through forested lowlands, creeks, and springs.

ATV/Quad Tour:s Rent from kiosks near Joyland Park or arrange through hotels.

Day Trips from Bakuriani

Borjomi – 30 km (30 minutes)

Georgia’s famous spa town with healing mineral waters. Must-visit attractions:

• Borjomi Central Park: Drink the famous mineral water directly from natural springs
• Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park: Hiking through pristine forests
• Charming town center with cafés and restaurants

Tabatskuri Lake – 28 km

A breathtaking volcanic lake in a lunar landscape. Deep blue waters stocked with trout, carp, and barbel make it popular for fishing. Reachable by 4×4 in summer or snowmobile in winter when the surface freezes.

Vardzia Cave Monastery – 100 km (2 hours)

Spectacular 12th-century cave monastery carved into Erusheti Mountain. One of Georgia’s most impressive historical sites, with over 6,000 caves. Combine with a visit to Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe.

Rabati Castle – Akhaltsikhe (60 km)

Impressive 9th-century fortress extensively restored, featuring a mosque, synagogue, Christian church, and historical museum within its walls. Capital of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region.

Bakuriani vs. Gudauri: Which Resort to Choose?

Factor	Bakuriani	Gudauri
Best for	Families, beginners, intermediates	Advanced skiers, freeriders
Terrain	Forested, varied	Open alpine, above treeline
Elevation	1,700–2,700m	2,200–3,300m
Total slopes	29 km	70 km
Atmosphere	Authentic mountain village	Purpose-built resort
Day pass	55 GEL	70 GEL
Accommodation	More affordable	Premium prices
Non-skiing activities	Excellent variety	Limited
Road access	Easier, lower altitude	Mountain pass, can close
Snow reliability	Good (December–March)	Excellent (longer season)
Off-piste/Heli-skiing	Limited	Excellent
Character	Historical, charming	Modern, convenient

Choose Bakuriani if: You’re traveling with family, have beginner/intermediate skiers, want diverse activities, prefer authentic Georgian atmosphere, or seek better value.

Choose Gudauri if: You’re an advanced skier, want challenging terrain, prefer ski-in/ski-out convenience, or plan to try freeriding and heli-skiing.

Can’t decide? Many visitors spend time at both resorts for a complete Georgian skiing experience.

Practical Tips

What to Pack

• Warm layers: Temperatures range from -10°C to 5°C
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: High altitude means strong UV
• Winter boots: For walking on icy roads
• Cash: ATMs available but cards not accepted everywhere

Health Insurance

From January 2026, health insurance is mandatory for entry to Georgia. Ensure your policy covers skiing and winter sports activities. Adventure sports like snowmobiling may require additional coverage.

Dining

Bakuriani has numerous restaurants serving traditional Georgian cuisine and international options. Try:

• Khinkali (Georgian dumplings)
• Khachapuri (cheese bread)
• Mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers)
• Local wine to warm up après-ski

Halal options: Several hotels including Bakuriani Inn provide Halal-friendly meals upon request.

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi available at most hotels and cafés
• Mobile coverage good throughout resort
• Bolt app works for taxi bookings

Safety

• All ski areas patrolled by ski rescue and first-aid teams
• Hospital in Bakuriani provides emergency care only
• Emergency helicopter evacuation to Tbilisi available
• Ski passes do not include insurance—arrange your own

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Bakuriani from Tbilisi? Bakuriani is 180 km from Tbilisi, approximately 2.5–3 hours by car depending on traffic and road conditions.

Is Bakuriani good for beginners? Yes, Bakuriani is considered the best resort in Georgia for beginners and families. The 25-meter slope (Joyland) is specifically designed for first-timers, and affordable ski lessons are widely available.

How much does a ski pass cost in Bakuriani? A daily adult ski pass costs 55 GEL (approximately $20 USD) for the 2025/2026 season—excellent value compared to European resorts.

Is the Kukushka train running? No, the narrow-gauge train between Borjomi and Bakuriani is not operating for the 2025/2026 season and there are no confirmed plans to resume service.

Can I visit Bakuriani without skiing? Absolutely! Bakuriani offers extensive non-skiing activities including alpine coaster rides, scenic gondola trips, snowmobiling, ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and easy access to Borjomi’s mineral springs.

What’s the best time to visit Bakuriani? Mid-January to early March offers the best combination of good snow and manageable crowds. Avoid New Year holidays (December 30 – January 13) when the resort is extremely crowded.

Is Bakuriani better than Gudauri? It depends on your priorities. Bakuriani is better for families, beginners, and those seeking diverse activities and authentic atmosphere. Gudauri is better for advanced skiers and freeriding enthusiasts.

Are there night skiing options? Yes, Didveli offers night skiing on illuminated slopes from Friday to Sunday, typically 17:00–21:30.

How do I check if lifts are operating? Visit status.mta.ski for real-time lift status at all Georgian ski resorts.

Is Bakuriani suitable for summer visits? Yes! Summer offers hiking, horseback riding, botanical garden visits, and access to nearby Borjomi. The alpine coaster operates year-round. However, summer is considerably quieter than winter.

Book Your Bakuriani Adventure

Ready to experience Georgia’s premier family ski resort? Highlander Travel offers:

Contact us to plan your perfect Bakuriani getaway!

Last updated: January 2026. Prices and schedules subject to change—verify locally.