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The surrounding region of the National Park abounds in a great variety of natural landscapes, historical and architectural monuments, resorts and settlements with the population distinguished for its ethnographic and cultural features. Borjomi as one of the most popular resorts of Georgia is remarkable for its mineral waters, unique nature and abundance of historical monuments.
Half way between Borjomi and Bakuriani, from the turn off at Tsagveli a road leads to Timotesubani monastery. The church of the Holy Virgin was built in the 10th century out of red sandstone. The inner chambers are covered with extraordinary well preserved frescos from the 13th century, the epoch of Queen Tamar.
Remarkable historical monuments situated on the National Park area are St Marys church at the National Park entrance in Qvabiskhevi and Chitakhevi ("Green monastery"). The Tsar Romanoff Palace and Park in Likani built in 1895 are of great recreational value. The first healing spring was discovered in mid 19th century, later the Russian Tsar family had a summer residence, Likani Palace, built on the banks of the river Mtkvari. He was greatly impressed by the beauty of the Borjomi Gorge and decided to build a summer residence there.
Around this palace a beautiful splendid park was designed - today's top destination for Spa tourists in Borjomi.
There is a 35 km long 100 years old rack railway leading through a narrow gorge from Borjomi to Bakuriani, Georgia's "winter sport capital", which offers tourists ski-routes, rope-ways, sport and health basis and efficient hotel service all year round.
Kharagauli is situated in the northern part of the National Park where the climate is subtropical and the landscape represented by river gorges, karstic forms and mineral water springs. Traditions of home industry are not forgotten here - you'll find the best honey in the country as well as earthenware crockery and basketry works. Akhaltsikhe is one of the most ancient cities of Georgia, populated by various nationalities with a remarkable historical museum. Travelling in the district, the fortress in Atskuri and the monastery Sapara are worth a visit.
From Adigeni district, where you can visit the monasteries of Zarzma and Chule or have a rest at the mountain balneological resort of Abastumani, you can travel via the "Sun Gate" (Zekari pass) to Bagdati and taste the "Sulguni" (the best cheese in Imereti) or have a sip of the famous Sairme medicinal water.
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Hikes and sites to visit in the region
For hikes into the National Park please see Trails
For organized tours please see Tour Operators Contact
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