Lagodekhi National Park, Georgia

Lagodekhi National Park (Lagodekhi Protected Areas) is the oldest among the twenty national parks in Georgia. Located in the Lagodekhi Municipality of the Kakheti region (Eastern Georgia), it sits on the southern slopes of the main watershed of the Caucasus. This is a unique and marvellous Georgia travel destination involving wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, open spaces, and the opportunity to avoid crowds.

For a comprehensive guide to things to do in Lagodekhi, we invite you to consult our Georgia Travel Guide. It provides detailed information on recommended activities and attractions throughout Georgia.

Tours

Lagodekhi Nature Reserve presents an unparalleled beauty for immersion in Georgia’s resplendent natural landscapes. The park’s trails to Matchi Castle and Ninoskhevi Waterfall draw thousands of adventurers, serving up a balanced challenge well-suited to single-day excursions. These sun-filled hikes are best undertaken during spring, summer, or autumn, as the favourable weather enhances the verdant scenery.

The Nature Educational Trail provides an ideal option for young explorers. Spanning a manageable 600 metres and designed for children 3 to 9, the pathway unfolds over an hour; here, families can unveil the park’s ecosystem in an accessible and enriching way.

For those keen to enjoy an active outdoor experience, Advantour is poised to elevate their journey through Lagodekhi National Park. Guided by our professionals, travellers will delve into the region’s vibrant flora and fauna, creating an unforgettable encounter in nature’s finest.

History of Lagodekhi National Park

Lagodekhi National Park, established in 1912, owes much of its foundation to the esteemed naturalist zoologist, botanist, and pioneering researcher of the Caucasus, Ludwig Frantsevich Mlokosevich. For many years, it functioned as a nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary largely restricted to tourists.

In 2005, the conservation area was elevated to the status of a national park, allowing public access to its landscapes. Today, the territory is a remarkable and enchanting enclave of untouched wilderness, encompassing an impressive expanse of 17,000 hectares within the larger 25,000-hectare protected area. The majority of the park is blanketed in lush forests, with nearly 5,000 hectares covered by alpine and subalpine meadows. Approximately 90 hectares consist of water bodies, including a network of rivers, springs, lakes, and over thirty cascading waterfalls.

Things to Do in Lagodekhi National Park

Landmarks and Attractions

The allure of Lagodekhi as a tourist destination lies in its natural wonders. Notably, the protected areas captivate with well-maintained trails and hiking routes that thread their way through Ninoskhevi and Rocho waterfalls, the alpine Black Rock Lake, and the mist-enshrouded Kudigora mountains.

Beyond these breath-taking vistas, Lagodekhi’s conservation expanses shelter diverse species, like deer, bears, and other rare and endemic fauna, each of which contributes to the park’s rich ecological tapestry.

For history enthusiasts, the ruins of Matchi Castle and the ancient Basilica Kochalos provide a glimpse into the region’s storied past.

After a journey through Lagodekhi’s rugged terrain, a restful retreat is guaranteed at the Eco Village in the Forest, where nature seamlessly embraces modern comfort, promising a rejuvenating escape amid picturesque surroundings.

Lagodekhi Museums

The small town of Lagodekhi is the gateway to exploring Lagodekhi National Park. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes on well-marked trails from the Lagodekhi Protected Areas. While the park is the area's star attraction, be sure to visit one of the Georgian museums, the Lagodekhi Museum of Local Lore established in 1975.

Artefacts, spanning centuries of Lagodekhi’s history, from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages, have been excavated on the Lagodekhi Municipality grounds. Swords, daggers, Georgian coins, jewellery, and more are on display. The museum also houses notable collections of ethnographic items, Georgian pottery, and porcelain.

In addition to the permanent collections, there are regular exhibitions of photography, woodworking, and paintings by amateur and professional artists alike.

Food in Lagodekhi

Georgian Cuisine

Georgian cuisine is renowned for its distinctive regional dishes, and Kakheti, home to Lagodekhi, is no exception. Hungry travellers can savour Kakheti’s signature dishes, such as mtsvadi (grilled meat), khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings), and more at local eateries. A notable element of the Georgian feast, or "supra", is the celebrated Kakhetian puri, also known as "dedas puri" (mother's bread). Recognized as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage, puri shares this distinction with churchkhela, a traditional sweet, also hailing from Kakheti.

For a memorable meal in Lagodekhi, Chateau Kiramla stands out not only for its cuisine but also for its scenic beauty. Guests can relax in comfortable cottages or dine under the open sky, accompanied by the serene sounds of a nearby river and a forest of leafy trees. Another excellent dining choice is the Restaurant Edemi Lagodekhi, where guests can appreciate authentic local flavours.

Vegetarian Restaurants

Although there are no dedicated vegetarian restaurants in Lagodekhi, vegetarians will still find Georgian cuisine quite accommodating. Try the classic tomato and cucumber salad prepared in sunflower oil and minced walnuts as a refreshing starter. Pkhali, a popular Georgian appetizer, is made from cabbage, eggplant, spinach, beans, and beets, combining walnuts, vinegar, onions, garlic, and herbs. Don't miss lobio, a bean dish accented by coriander, walnuts, onions, garlic, or eggplant rolls filled with a savoury walnut paste. Of course, no meal is complete without the ever-popular khachapuri (cheese-stuffed bread) and lobiani (bean-stuffed bread).

Drinks in Kakheti

Kakheti is the heart of Georgia's wine industry and a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. The region is famous for its extensive wine production and some of the country's finest varieties. Distinguished varieties are crisp white wines such as Rkatsiteli and the bold red Saperavi, each reflecting the area’s rich vinicultural heritage.

Visitors exploring Georgian beverages are encouraged to sample locally produced lemonades from brands such as Natakhtari, Kazbegi, Zedazeni, and Borjomi. These refreshing drinks come in delightful fruit notes like lemon, pear, and peach. For something truly unique, sample the tarragon lemonade – an unusual yet surprisingly enjoyable flavour that is a Georgian specialty.

Getting Around Lagodekhi National Park

There are three main entrances to Lagodekhi National Park. The primary entrance is located north of Lagodekhi town on Vashlovani Street. This entrance features an Information Centre and well-paved paths. The second entrance is north of Ninigori village, and the third is north of Mitsimi.

Visitors to the park have several route options. A shorter, 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) trail begins at the central entrance, following the Shromistskali River to a small waterfall, where voyagers can delight in a refreshing swim during warm weather. This route comprises a bridge and several moderate climbs.

For those seeking more adventure, a challenging 3-day route starts near Ninigori village leading through Lagodekhi’s alpine regions. This trail ascends to the ridge, passes a lake near the national border, and descends past a historic fortress toward Mitsimi.

Entry to Lagodekhi’s protected area is currently free of charge; fees apply for specialized services, including overnight accommodations in shelters or tents as well as horse and equipment rentals. These services have fixed rates and discounts available for groups of ten or more for eco-educational initiatives within the park. Please note that fires and littering are strictly prohibited to protect the natural environment.

How to Get to Lagodekhi National Park?

Tbilisi International Airport is approximately 160 kilometres from the town of Lagodekhi, the primary entrance to the national park. Travelers can reach the park from Tbilisi by taking a minibus or taxi. Visitors can take the metro to Isani Station, where minivans bound for Lagodekhi depart every hour.

For Advantour clients, the journey is seamless and fully managed. Advantour can arrange direct transfers to Lagodekhi, ensuring that every aspect of each traveller’ itinerary is expertly coordinated.

Currency in Lagodekhi

Goods and services across Georgia are transacted in the national currency, the Georgian lari (₾, GEL). Payments can be made in cash or by card, with most terminals accepting Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, Wise, and other major providers. For smooth transactions, it is advisable to contact one’s bank beforehand to confirm that one’s card is authorized for international payments.

In Lagodekhi, several banks offer currency exchange services where newcomers can convert U.S. dollars or euros into lari. While card payments are widely accepted, carrying cash is essential for smaller purchases, especially at local bazaars. ATMs from prominent Georgian banks, such as Bank of Georgia and TBC Bank, are available in Lagodekhi, enabling withdrawals in lari, dollars, or euros. Please note that currency conversion fees may apply.

Safety in Lagodekhi National Park

Exploring the Lagodekhi Protected Areas can be an exhilarating experience. Nevertheless, due to the rugged terrain of certain trails, safety is key. When hiking, being prepared will help visitors avoid injuries and ensure a great time. It is important to wear sturdy shoes that have adequate grip and bring plenty of water and a flashlight for multi-day hikes. It is likewise paramount to be mindful of heat, wildlife, and poisonous plants and consider one’s limits to ensure a safe adventure.

During the summer months, temperatures in Lagodekhi National Park can exceed 100°F. Staying hydrated and protecting oneself from the sun are essential when hiking to Black Rock Lake. Here are some tips for hot-weather hiking.

• Carry at least 2–3 litres of water per person.
• Take advantage of any shade along the trail.
• Wear light–coloured clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Drinking water is available at tourist shelters and nearby springs.

Rangers at the Lagodekhi Protected Areas Administration and Visitor Centre provide additional information on safety measures.