Zedazeni Monastery
A serene monastery perched high above Tbilisi, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant fall foliage
Zedazeni Monastery
Best Time
Vibrant fall foliage

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene monastery perched high above Tbilisi, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a peaceful escape.
"The view of Tbilisi from Zedazeni Monastery is absolutely worth the hike!"
🚗 Drive or Hike?
The drive is steep; consider walking if your vehicle is not suitable. The hike offers great views! :athletic_shoe:
👗 Modest Attire Required
Women need skirts/dresses, men no shorts. Respect the religious site. :womaninturban:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Tbilisi Views
Monastery grounds
Breathtaking, sweeping vistas of Tbilisi and Mtskheta. A perfect spot for reflection and photography.

Sabaduri Forest Trail
Base of the monastery
A scenic pathway leading into the treeline, offering a peaceful escape and a touch of adventure.

Monastery Garden
Monastery grounds
A tranquil space with historical significance, offering a calm atmosphere for contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Ascent to Serenity
Dress Code & Respect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Fall Foliage
🚗 Drive or Hike?
The drive is steep; consider walking if your vehicle is not suitable. The hike offers great views! :athletic_shoe:
👗 Modest Attire Required
Women need skirts/dresses, men no shorts. Respect the religious site. :womaninturban:
Can someone translate this to English? I love this and really want to know it's name.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Limited facilities on-site. Stay hydrated and fueled for the journey. :water_wave:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views are stunning. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Hike?
The drive is steep; consider walking if your vehicle is not suitable. The hike offers great views! :athletic_shoe:
👗 Modest Attire Required
Women need skirts/dresses, men no shorts. Respect the religious site. :womaninturban:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Limited facilities on-site. Stay hydrated and fueled for the journey. :water_wave:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views are stunning. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
⏳ Check Construction Status
Monastery may be closed for construction. Garden views are often still accessible. :construction_worker:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Zedazeni Monastery for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi and Mtskheta, calling it a peaceful and serene escape. The hike up is considered challenging but rewarding. Some note the monastery's modern construction and strict dress code, which can be a point of contention for some.
"I visited Zedazeni Monastery and it was a great experience. The hike (or drive) up is no joke. But once you’re at the top, the view of Tbilisi is absolutely worth it. You get this wide, peaceful look over the whole city that just makes you want to stop and take it in for a while. Definitely worth the effort.
The monastery itself is quiet and serene. Nothing too flashy, but beautiful in a calm, grounded way. There’s a sense of history and stillness up there that’s hard to find elsewhere.
If you take the time to explore, there are some lowkey spots and a pathway that you can follow leading down into the treeline. A bit sketchy but all went well.
All in all, I’d definitely recommend it for anyone looking to get out of the city for a few hours. Zedazeni is a great option if you’re looking to escape the city for a few hours and get some fresh air. It’s not overly crowded, and the combination of history, nature, and views makes it a special spot. Just make sure to bring water, and definitely take a camera. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting the Tbilisi area."
Tamazi
"Insanely special place where i felt spiritual and historical connection. So glad we decided to come here. Definitely the highlight from our Mtshketa trip. A lovely lady outside the monastery that sells religious memorabilia."
Lorraine Fernandes
"Not a real monastery or even a church. It had no real age to it and is all modern built with cement. There is a guard on the door who won’t accept women wearing trousers, they must wear skirts! Men also can’t wear shorts despite the 6km hike in 35 degrees summer! Religion is about welcoming everyone but these people seem to just want donations and to be a an authoritarian voice claiming to be religious. It’s 2025, you have electricity, gas & internet line coming into your building, catch up a little."
Andy Groves
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive or hike to Zedazeni Monastery. The drive involves a steep, unpaved road that can be challenging for standard cars, especially after rain. Many visitors opt to park at the base and hike the approximately 2.4 km (45 minutes one way) uphill. Taxis or private drivers might be an option, but confirm their willingness to navigate the road.
The road is steep and can be rough. Vehicles higher than 2.2 meters may need to park at the bottom and walk.
It's advisable to check local conditions, especially if you're driving a larger vehicle like a camper van.The hike is approximately 2.4 km with about 200 meters of elevation gain. It's a steady uphill climb, offering scenic views along the way. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
While possible, confirm with your taxi driver if they are willing to drive up the steep and potentially rough road. Some drivers may prefer to drop you at the base for the hike.
Yes, many tours from Tbilisi include Zedazeni Monastery, often combined with Mtskheta. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to arrange your own transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no admission fee to enter the grounds of Zedazeni Monastery. However, donations are often appreciated.
Opening hours can vary, and the monastery may be closed for construction or religious services. Some signs indicate 11 AM to 6 PM, but it's best to check locally or be prepared for potential closures.
Yes, a modest dress code is enforced. Women should wear skirts or dresses, and men should avoid shorts. This is a religious site, and respectful attire is required.
No, women are generally required to wear skirts or dresses. Trousers are not permitted for women at the monastery.
Men should avoid wearing shorts. Long trousers are recommended to comply with the dress code for religious sites.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi and Mtskheta, the serene monastery garden, and the historical atmosphere. There's also a pathway leading down into the treeline for exploration.
It's generally not overly crowded, especially if you visit during weekdays or outside peak tourist seasons. The hike or drive can deter some visitors, contributing to a more peaceful experience.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful lighting for photography, with the 'golden hour' casting a warm glow over the landscape. However, morning visits can also be lovely and less hot.
Facilities are very limited. It's advisable to use restrooms before you ascend or descend.
Some visitors have noted a lady selling religious memorabilia outside the monastery.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Tbilisi and Mtskheta are the prime photo spots. The monastery's architecture and the surrounding natural landscape also offer great photographic potential.
Photography rules can vary. It's best to be discreet and respectful, especially if services are ongoing or if there are specific signs prohibiting photos inside.
Late afternoon offers the best light for landscape photography, creating a warm and dramatic atmosphere. Early mornings can also be beautiful with soft light.
The main viewing areas on the monastery grounds offer expansive, unobstructed views. Explore the edges of the monastery complex for different perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the panoramic vistas. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots of the monastery and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If the hike seems too challenging, consider the drive, but be aware of the road conditions. The monastery grounds offer space to wander, and the peaceful atmosphere can be a nice change of pace. Pack snacks and be prepared for limited facilities on-site. The experience can be a great way to introduce children to Georgian culture and history in a memorable setting.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and layers of clothing, as the weather can change. Bring ample water and snacks, as amenities are scarce. The combination of a challenging hike, stunning natural scenery, and panoramic vistas makes Zedazeni Monastery a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and respectfully, which can enhance the sense of reverence. The quietude of the monastery grounds, away from the city's hustle, allows for a deeper connection with oneself and the surroundings. It's a place where one can find a sense of historical and spiritual grounding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey Up: Hiking vs. Driving
If you choose to drive, be aware that the road is steep and unpaved, often described as rough. It's not recommended for standard sedans, especially after rain. Larger vehicles like camper vans might face height restrictions (over 2.2m) and difficulty navigating the terrain. Parking is available at the base for those who opt to hike. Many visitors find that the effort of the climb or the drive is well worth the spectacular payoff at the summit.
Consider the season as well. In autumn, the hike can be particularly beautiful as the Sabaduri Forest begins to display its fall colors. Regardless of your chosen method, the journey itself is an integral part of the Zedazeni Monastery visit, preparing you for the tranquility and views that await.
Understanding the Monastery's Significance and Modernity
Despite its modern construction, the monastery is an active religious site. Visitors are expected to adhere to a strict dress code: women must wear skirts or dresses, and men should avoid shorts. This adherence to tradition is part of the experience, though some find it to be an authoritarian aspect. It's important to approach the visit with an understanding of its religious context and the expectations for visitors.
The monastery's location offers a unique perspective, providing a spiritual retreat away from the bustle of Tbilisi. The surrounding garden and pathways offer opportunities for quiet contemplation and exploration, making it a place that resonates with those seeking a blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit