Mother of Georgia (Kartlis Deda) - Mother of Georgians (Kartlis Deda (Mother of Kartli)) drone shot
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Mother of Georgia (Kartlis Deda)

4.6
·5k reviews·T'bilisi, Georgia

An iconic aluminum statue of a woman holding a sword and wine, symbolizing Georgia's spirit and hospitality.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light, cooler temps

CrowdMedium
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Mother of Georgia (Kartlis Deda) - Mother of Georgians (Kartlis Deda (Mother of Kartli)) drone shot

Mother of Georgia (Kartlis Deda)

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light, cooler temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic aluminum statue of a woman holding a sword and wine, symbolizing Georgia's spirit and hospitality.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"The cable car ride was super affordable and gave us an amazing view of the entire city."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk Up for Views

Take the stairs for better photo ops and enjoy the city views along the 1km walk.

☀️ Beat the Summer Heat

Visit later in the day during summer to avoid intense heat and long cable car queues.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mother of Georgia Statue

Mother of Georgia Statue

Sololaki Hill

An iconic aluminum figure clad in traditional Georgian dress, symbolizing Georgia's spirit.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Top of Sololaki Hill

Breathtaking vistas of Tbilisi, best enjoyed from the viewing platforms near the statue.

Cable Car Ride

Cable Car Ride

Near Peace Bridge

An affordable and scenic journey up the hill, offering captivating views of the city below.

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Planning Your Visit

Cable Car Convenience

The cable car is a popular and affordable way to reach the Mother of Georgia statue, offering stunning city views. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid queues, especially in summer.

Strategic Photo Spots

While the statue is impressive up close, the best photos are often taken from a distance. Walking up the stairs can offer unique vantage points and a more immersive experience.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk Up for Views

Take the stairs for better photo ops and enjoy the city views along the 1km walk. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Summer Heat

Visit later in the day during summer to avoid intense heat and long cable car queues. Reddit

💰 Affordable Cable Car

The cable car ride is inexpensive and offers a great way to reach the top with amazing views. Reddit

📸 Distance for Best Shots

Capture the best photos of the statue from a distance, not directly underneath. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk Up for Views

Take the stairs for better photo ops and enjoy the city views along the 1km walk. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Summer Heat

Visit later in the day during summer to avoid intense heat and long cable car queues. Reddit

💰 Affordable Cable Car

The cable car ride is inexpensive and offers a great way to reach the top with amazing views. Reddit

📸 Distance for Best Shots

Capture the best photos of the statue from a distance, not directly underneath. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Browse the souvenir shops at the top for unique Georgian crafts and mementos. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Mother of Georgia statue for its iconic status and the breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi it offers. The affordable cable car ride is a major highlight, providing easy access and a scenic journey. While the statue itself is impressive, many note that the best photos are taken from a distance. Some find the area at the top can get crowded, especially during peak season.

"This was such a great stop as a traveler in Tbilisi! The cable car ride was super affordable and gave us an amazing view of the entire city. Once at the top, you’re led to a charming street with authentic vibes—street singers, souvenir shops, and even treats like the delicious chimney cake and my favorite, the Limonti drink!

From there, you can walk towards the Mother of Georgia statue. The statue is massive and faces the city, so the best photos are taken from a distance rather than directly below. For the adventurous, there’s even a full hike up with rewarding views along the way."

Nimra Farhan

"Arriving at Dada Cathedral via the scenic cable car is an unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views of Tbilisi. The cathedral itself is stunning, with its blend of traditional and modern architecture. Its peaceful atmosphere and stunning interior make it a perfect spot for reflection and admiration of the city from above."

eran Farin

"If going in the summer, I suggest you wait till the sun has lessened in intensity. Because this is a tourist spot, you would get stuck waiting in line for the cable car at the top, and it's too hot if it's in summer. The view from the top is worth a look. The tickets aren't expensive, so it's a good one to put on your tour itinerary."

Daya Shoshi

What People Like

Iconic statue
Stunning city views
Affordable cable car

What People Dislike

Crowded at peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Mother of Georgia statue by taking the cable car from near the Peace Bridge or by walking up the stairs. The cable car offers a scenic ride with city views, while the stairs provide a more active experience with rewarding vistas along the way. Reddit

No, the cable car ride is quite affordable and considered a good value for the stunning views it provides. Reddit

Yes, you can walk up to the Mother of Georgia statue. It's a 1km walk up the stairs, which takes about 20 minutes and offers great city views. Reddit

The Mother of Georgia is located near Narikala Fortress and the Dada Cathedral. The cable car route also passes by these landmarks, offering a convenient way to see multiple sites. Reddit

Information on specific parking availability near the cable car station can be limited. It's often recommended to use public transport or taxis to reach the cable car base. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no direct admission fee for the Mother of Georgia statue itself. However, you will need a ticket for the cable car to reach the viewpoint. Reddit

The Mother of Georgia statue is accessible at all times as an outdoor monument. The cable car operates during daylight hours, typically from morning until evening. Reddit

Cable car tickets can usually be purchased at the ticket booth located at the base station of the cable car, near the Peace Bridge. Reddit

While specific discounts may vary, the cable car is generally considered very affordable for tourists. It's always worth checking for any available promotions at the ticket office. Reddit

The statue is visible at night, and the city lights from the viewpoint can be spectacular. However, the cable car typically stops operating after sunset. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For the most impactful photos, step back and capture the entire statue with the city skyline as a backdrop. The walk up the stairs offers unique angles. Reddit

Absolutely! The cable car ride itself provides excellent opportunities for panoramic shots of Tbilisi as you ascend. Reddit

Yes, there are often individuals at the top offering photo opportunities with eagles and macaws for a fee. Reddit

Late afternoon during the golden hour offers beautiful lighting. Early mornings can also be great for fewer crowds and softer light. Reddit

Yes, by walking up the stairs or viewing from the designated platforms, you can achieve wide shots that encompass the statue and its surroundings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

At the top, you'll find a charming street with souvenir shops and food stalls offering treats like chimney cakes and Limonti drinks. Reddit

Look out for traditional Georgian sweets like chimney cake (known as 'kürtőskalács' in some regions) and refreshing local beverages. Reddit

Prices at the souvenir shops and food stalls are generally reasonable, especially considering the tourist location. Reddit

While not explicitly prohibited, it's common for visitors to purchase refreshments from the vendors at the top. Reddit

While there are food stalls at the top, dedicated restaurants with direct views of the statue are less common. The primary dining experience is at the viewpoint itself. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Mother of Georgia is a fantastic spot for families. The cable car ride is an exciting adventure for children, offering fantastic views of Tbilisi without a strenuous journey. At the top, kids will be fascinated by the sheer size of the statue and the symbolic meaning behind it. There are also opportunities for fun photos with birds of prey, which can be a memorable experience for younger visitors. Reddit

Consider visiting in the late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of summer, making the experience more comfortable for everyone. The souvenir shops at the top also offer a chance for kids to pick out a small memento of their trip. The walk up the stairs can also be an engaging activity for energetic children, turning the ascent into a mini-adventure.

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Mother of Georgia is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The cable car ride is very affordable, offering incredible value for the panoramic city views it provides. Reddit While there's no entrance fee for the statue itself, the cable car is the primary cost. For those looking to save even more, the walk up the stairs is completely free and offers a rewarding experience with great photo opportunities. Reddit

At the top, you can find reasonably priced snacks and souvenirs. This makes it an accessible attraction that doesn't break the bank, allowing travelers to enjoy a significant landmark and stunning vistas without a hefty price tag.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Symbolism of Kartlis Deda

The Mother of Georgia statue, also known as Kartlis Deda, is a monumental figure that stands as a powerful symbol of the Georgian national character. Erected in 1958, this aluminum giant is clad in traditional Georgian attire, embodying the spirit of the nation. On her left hand, she holds a bowl of wine to welcome friends and guests, signifying Georgia's renowned hospitality. In her right hand, she wields a sword, representing the country's readiness to defend itself against enemies. This duality perfectly encapsulates the Georgian ethos: a warm embrace for those with good intentions and a fierce defense for its sovereignty. Reddit

This symbolic interpretation is deeply ingrained in the local culture and is often shared with visitors. The statue's placement overlooking Tbilisi further amplifies its role as a guardian. It's a constant reminder of Georgia's rich history, its resilience, and its enduring spirit. For many Georgians, Kartlis Deda is more than just a statue; it's a representation of their homeland and its people. Reddit

Experiencing the Ascent: Cable Car vs. Stairs

Reaching the Mother of Georgia statue offers two distinct experiences: the convenient cable car ride or the invigorating walk up the stairs. The cable car is a popular choice for its speed and the breathtaking panoramic views it provides of Tbilisi as you ascend. It's an affordable and accessible option, especially for those with limited mobility or time. The journey itself is part of the attraction, offering a unique perspective of the city's sprawling landscape and iconic landmarks. Reddit

Alternatively, walking up the stairs presents a more immersive and rewarding experience for the active traveler. This 1km climb takes approximately 20 minutes and offers numerous vantage points for stunning photographs along the way. It allows for a more intimate connection with the surroundings and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit. Many visitors find that the journey on foot enhances their appreciation of the statue and the city. Reddit

Both options lead to the same destination, where you'll find souvenir shops and food stalls. The choice between the two often depends on personal preference, fitness level, and the desire for a quick ascent versus a more scenic and active journey. Regardless of your choice, the views from the top are a significant highlight. Reddit

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