Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti

Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti are a real find for nature and history lovers. Here you will find the balneo-climatic resorts of Shovi and Utsera, as well as the Zesho alpine camp hidden in the mountains. The Shaori Reservoir is a favorite place for tourists, especially in autumn and winter, when the nature around it turns into a fabulous reflection of colorful forests and snow—capped peaks.

The region is replete with temples and monasteries. Nikortsminda Cathedral, built in the XI century, impresses with its facade decorations and bas-reliefs depicting the nobles of Racha and Imereti. A walk from Nikortsminda to the ruins of the Udabno monastery and the Areula River will give you unforgettable views and the opportunity to enjoy nature.

Do not miss the Church of St. George Mravaldzali in Verkhnyaya Racha, famous for its legends and history. Here you can take a photo with the monument to Judas the horse, the hero of the Second World War. Shaori Lake in Lower Racha will enchant you with its microclimate and is ideal for picnics, fishing and camping.

For history lovers, there are three ethnographic museums in the region in Oni, Lentekhi and Tsageri, although the latter two may be closed.

The gastronomy of the region is rich in unique dishes that everyone should try. The famous Rachin ham is produced in the village of Chiora, which is salted and smoked on pine and oak bark, giving it a special flavor. Racha is also famous for its wine tours, where you can taste varieties such as Khvanchkara, Usakhelauri and Twishi.

One of the traditional dishes is havitsi, made from the lees of ghee with the addition of flour and salt. Tskaldaskhmula is a dish made of cottage cheese and mchadi, ideal for winter days. Kalakoda, similar to phali, is made from a deciduous plant collected in the forests of Racha.

Try machquinara — mushrooms that can be boiled or fried, seasoned with garlic and herbs. Jorma is a dish of hip bran wrapped in sheep's tripe, seasoned with herbs and garlic. Nettle phali is a spring dish that the locals love very much.

Pork intestines are used to prepare dishes that are stored as canned food and served in winter. Baduri is another traditional pork gut dish stuffed with ground meat and seasonings.

Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti can be reached in several ways. One of them is via Kutaisi, Tskaltubo and Lentekhi, which is popular among tourists seeking to Svaneti. Another route is through Tkibuli and the Nakervli pass to Ambrolauri, which is preferred by locals heading to Shovi. A new road from Sachkhere to Oni opened in 2020, allowing you to reach the region from Tbilisi in 4-5 hours.

There is also a road through Twishi and Alpana, but it is in poor condition and its use is not recommended.