Besik Gabashvili Park (Gora Park)
A unique Soviet-era amusement park offering a nostalgic, slightly eerie 'lost place' experience with vintage rides and city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Locals flock here for fun
Besik Gabashvili Park (Gora Park)
Best Time
Locals flock here for fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Soviet-era amusement park offering a nostalgic, slightly eerie 'lost place' experience with vintage rides and city views.
"It's a testament to Soviet engineering that the place still works... a nice way to see locals having fun and experience proper Soviet vibes."
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be tricky and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring safely. :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Cart Car
The walk up can be tiring. A cart car offers an easier ascent to the park entrance. :minibus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Giant Ferris Wheel
Central area
A colossal Soviet-era Ferris wheel offering panoramic views, evoking a unique, almost eerie charm.
Retro Amusement Rides
Throughout the park
Experience a collection of vintage Soviet amusement rides, many still operational, for a nostalgic thrill.
Panoramic Kutaisi Views
Park periphery
Enjoy sweeping vistas of Kutaisi city from the hilltop location, especially captivating at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Soviet Charm
Getting There & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be tricky and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring safely. :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Cart Car
The walk up can be tiring. A cart car offers an easier ascent to the park entrance. :minibus:
Embrace the 'Lost Place' Vibe
It's run-down but charming. Appreciate the unique Soviet atmosphere and vintage rides.
Check Ride Safety
Some rides may appear old or unsafe. Use your judgment before deciding to ride. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be tricky and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring safely. :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Cart Car
The walk up can be tiring. A cart car offers an easier ascent to the park entrance. :minibus:
Embrace the 'Lost Place' Vibe
It's run-down but charming. Appreciate the unique Soviet atmosphere and vintage rides.
Check Ride Safety
Some rides may appear old or unsafe. Use your judgment before deciding to ride. :warning:
Cheap Entry Fee
The entrance fee is very affordable, making it a budget-friendly unique experience. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Besik Gabashvili Park to be a fascinating, albeit run-down, testament to Soviet engineering and a unique 'lost place' experience. While some rides are out of service and safety is a consideration, its cheap entry and nostalgic atmosphere make it a memorable, offbeat attraction for those seeking something different in Kutaisi.
"It’s a testament to Soviet engineering that the place still works. Staff, as usual in Georgia, are not particularly friendly and the walk there can be tiring if you’re out of shape. Otherwise, it’s a nice way to see locals having fun and experience proper Soviet vibes."
Saikhnaa
"It's on the top of the hill which you can go by cart car. It's old Soviet type amusement park. Especially the big wheel brings me memory of Chernobyl. I won't go there myself but I'm pretty sure it's busy during summer."
Sir_Bankster
"A pretty lost and run-down place. Many rides are out of service and dont look safe. But never the less the ones working make fun tho. The entrance fee is very cheap and I must admit that there is something fascinating about that amusement park. Maybe its the "lost-place vibe". If you are in Kutaissi for a day, I recommend going there!"
Lukas Böhme
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located on a hill overlooking Kutaisi. You can walk up, but it can be tiring. Many visitors opt for a 'cart car' service, which is a local transport option to reach the park entrance. Be prepared for potentially tricky paths, especially on the descent. +1
The walk can be tiring if you're not used to inclines. The paths are described as tricky by some visitors, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Besides walking, a common method is using a local 'cart car' service. This is a practical way to ascend the hill.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very cheap, making it an affordable attraction.
While not explicitly stated, summer afternoons are noted as being busy with locals. Visiting on weekdays or later in the afternoon might offer a less crowded experience.
No advance booking is typically required. Entry is usually paid upon arrival, and the fee is quite low.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park features old Soviet-era amusement rides. While some are out of service, many are still operational and offer a unique, nostalgic experience. The giant Ferris wheel is a prominent attraction. +1
Some visitors note that many rides are out of service and don't look safe. It's advisable to use your own judgment regarding the safety of any ride you consider using.
The park has a distinct 'lost place' vibe with a strong Soviet atmosphere. It's described as run-down but fascinating, offering a unique, eerie charm rather than a polished modern amusement park experience.
From its hilltop location, the park offers somewhat limited but nice views of Kutaisi city.
While it offers a unique experience, the condition of some rides might be a concern for families with very young children. Parents should assess ride safety carefully.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic Soviet Ferris wheel is a must-capture. The overall run-down aesthetic, overgrown areas, and panoramic views of Kutaisi also make for striking photographic subjects.
Yes, the park's 'lost place' vibe, vintage rides, and slightly eerie atmosphere make it a compelling location for urban exploration photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the journey to the park as well. While walking is possible, the incline can be challenging for younger children. Opting for a 'cart car' service might be a more comfortable way to reach the park. Ensure everyone wears sturdy shoes, as the paths can be uneven. It's a great spot for photos and experiencing a different side of Kutaisi, but parental supervision and a realistic expectation of the park's condition are key.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The panoramic views of Kutaisi from the hilltop are also a significant draw, offering opportunities for landscape shots, particularly during golden hour. The contrast between the old Soviet structures and the modern city below can create compelling visual narratives. Be prepared for uneven terrain and potentially less-than-ideal lighting conditions, but the unique subject matter more than makes up for it.
🏛️ History & Culture Buffs
Visiting Gora Park is an opportunity to observe local life and understand a different facet of Georgian culture. It's a place where the past is not just remembered but actively experienced. The park's slightly run-down state adds to its historical authenticity, making it a fascinating study for anyone interested in the social and cultural history of the region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Soviet Nostalgia
While the park may not boast the polished attractions of contemporary venues, its appeal is precisely in its unvarnished character. The low entrance fee makes it an accessible adventure for those seeking offbeat experiences. It's a place where you can witness locals enjoying simple pleasures, providing a genuine cultural insight into Kutaisi life. For photographers, the park offers a rich tapestry of retro aesthetics and panoramic city views, making it a memorable stop for those who appreciate the unconventional.
Navigating Gora Park: Practicalities and Precautions
Safety is also a consideration within the park itself. While many rides are still operational, some are noted as being out of service or appearing unsafe. It's essential for visitors to exercise their own judgment and assess the condition of any ride before deciding to partake. Wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes is highly recommended to navigate the terrain safely. Despite these considerations, the park's unique charm and affordability make it a worthwhile visit for those prepared for its distinct character.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit