Zedazeni Monastery - A large white castle sitting on top of a lush green hillside
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Zedazeni Monastery

4.9
·721 reviews·, Georgia

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant fall foliage

CrowdLow
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Zedazeni Monastery - A large white castle sitting on top of a lush green hillside

Zedazeni Monastery

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant fall foliage

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.9
(721 reviews)

"The view of Tbilisi from Zedazeni Monastery is absolutely worth the hike!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Tbilisi Views

Panoramic Tbilisi Views

Monastery grounds

Breathtaking, sweeping vistas of Tbilisi and Mtskheta. A perfect spot for reflection and photography.

Sabaduri Forest Trail

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 Garden

Monastery grounds

A tranquil space with historical significance, offering a calm atmosphere for contemplation.

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Planning Your Visit

The Ascent to Serenity

Reaching Zedazeni Monastery involves a significant hike or a drive. The road can be challenging, especially for larger vehicles. Consider your fitness level and vehicle capabilities before setting off. The panoramic views at the top are a rewarding payoff for the effort.

Dress Code & Respect

As a religious site, modest dress is required. Women should wear skirts or dresses, and both men and women should avoid shorts. Be prepared for potential restrictions if your attire doesn't meet these standards, especially during construction periods.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Vibrant fall foliage
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, late afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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:

reddit.com

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

4.9
(721 reviews)

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

Spectacular panoramic views
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Rewarding hike

What People Dislike

Strict dress code
Modern construction
Challenging road/hike

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. Reddit

The road is steep and can be rough. Vehicles higher than 2.2 meters may need to park at the bottom and walk. Reddit It's advisable to check local conditions, especially if you're driving a larger vehicle like a camper van. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically no admission fee to enter the grounds of Zedazeni Monastery. However, donations are often appreciated. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

No, women are generally required to wear skirts or dresses. Trousers are not permitted for women at the monastery. Reddit

Men should avoid wearing shorts. Long trousers are recommended to comply with the dress code for religious sites. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Facilities are very limited. It's advisable to use restrooms before you ascend or descend. Reddit

Some visitors have noted a lady selling religious memorabilia outside the monastery. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Late afternoon offers the best light for landscape photography, creating a warm and dramatic atmosphere. Early mornings can also be beautiful with soft light. Reddit

The main viewing areas on the monastery grounds offer expansive, unobstructed views. Explore the edges of the monastery complex for different perspectives. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Zedazeni Monastery with children can be a rewarding experience, offering stunning views and a chance to explore nature. The hike up can be a fun adventure for active kids, but be prepared for the steep incline and ensure they have comfortable shoes and plenty of water. Reddit The panoramic views are sure to captivate young imaginations. Keep in mind the strict dress code; ensure children are dressed appropriately (skirts/dresses for girls, long pants for boys) to avoid any issues. Reddit

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

For those who love to hike, the ascent to Zedazeni Monastery is a highlight. The 2.4 km trail offers a good workout with rewarding views as you climb. Reddit The surrounding Sabaduri Forest provides a beautiful natural setting, especially vibrant during autumn foliage season. Reddit The pathway leading down into the treeline offers further exploration opportunities for the more adventurous. Reddit

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

Zedazeni Monastery offers a tranquil escape for those seeking spiritual connection and peace. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the breathtaking views, creates an environment conducive to reflection and meditation. Reddit Despite some modern construction, the site's spiritual resonance is palpable for many visitors. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey Up: Hiking vs. Driving

The ascent to Zedazeni Monastery is a significant part of the experience. For the adventurous, the hike from the base is a rewarding challenge. It's approximately 2.4 kilometers with a steady incline, offering increasingly impressive views of the surrounding landscape and eventually Tbilisi itself. Wear sturdy footwear and carry plenty of water, as the path can be uneven and the Georgian sun can be intense. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit 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

Zedazeni Monastery, while appearing ancient, is noted by some visitors as being more modern in its construction, built with cement. Reddit This has led to differing opinions on its historical authenticity. However, the site holds spiritual significance for many, offering a sense of peace and a connection to history. The serene atmosphere and the panoramic views contribute to its special appeal. Reddit

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. Reddit This adherence to tradition is part of the experience, though some find it to be an authoritarian aspect. Reddit 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. Reddit

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