4 lesser-known hiking routes in Svaneti

Introduction

It is no wonder that, in addition to the well-known hiking routes in Svaneti, there are many lesser-known hiking trails in the region that are no less beautiful and worth seeing. These include some hiking trails, such as the route over the Egrisi Mountains, which are completely undeveloped for tourism and wild.

Svaneti, located in the heart of the Caucasus, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. With its rugged terrain, pristine forests and snow-capped peaks, it is no wonder that this region has become a popular destination for adventure seekers from around the world.

Hiking trips to Svaneti are becoming more and more popular every year and are already offered by many Georgian and foreign tour operators.

Many visitors flock to the well-known hiking routes such as the route from Mestia to Uschguli or to the Chalaadi Glacier, but there are also many lesser-known routes that offer equally breathtaking views and challenging hikes.

In this article, we will introduce four of these hidden gems:

• Laila (Lahil) Mountain
• Bakh Mountain
• Latpari Pass
• Goldashi Mountain

Whether you are an experienced hiker or just starting out, these trails will amaze you with their beauty and splendour.

Our aim in this article is not to provide detailed descriptions of the routes (such as length, altitude difference, difficulty, etc.). Rather, we would like to give our readers who are planning a hiking holiday in Svaneti brief information about lesser-known routes that are therefore often not offered by tour operators.

Laila Mountain 

One of the lesser-known but no less beautiful hiking routes in Svaneti is the route to the base camp of Laila (Lahil) Peak. At over 4,000 metres, Laila Peak is the highest point in the Svaneti Mountains. The route passes through green forests, sparkling waterfalls and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The hike takes two days, with camping at the base camp. The base camp itself is located in a basin and is surrounded by an eternal glacier, which gives this place a special charm. This glacier is the largest in the Svaneti range.

Since there is no access road to the base camp, hikers have to carry their equipment themselves or hire a pack horse in the village to make the journey considerably easier.

The trek starts from the village of Tskhumari and takes about 6-7 hours. The first part of the trail is relatively wide and gradually ascends through the forest. Along the way, you will encounter several streams and small waterfalls, which add to the charm of this trek.

The real challenge begins when you approach the higher-altitude Chijdi Pass, where the path becomes steeper and more uneven. However, once you reach the top, your efforts will be rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view. All in all, the Laila summit is a must for anyone who enjoys hiking in unspoilt nature.

The route in pictures

The beauty of the route is apparent from the very beginning of the hike: as you leave the village, you are greeted by a breathtaking view of a beautiful part of the Greater Caucasus.

My guests were thrilled by the landscape of the Caucasus and took many beautiful photos.

The majestic Caucasus with the villages of Tswirmi and Yely.

The small but charming villages of Svaneti lie along the Mestia River.

The famous Betscho Valley with the majestic Uschba in the background. Below it, the route to Mestia.

The mighty Elbrus, shrouded in legend, king of the Caucasus, majestically seen from the Chijdi Pass. A highlight of the day.

After the Tschijdi Pass, you enter a narrow, unspoilt and wild valley.

The Laila Glacier – unfortunately it is shrinking from year to year.

There is a flat meadow not far from the glacier where you can camp.

The dreamlike sunset from the campsite is simply breathtaking.

Bakh Mountain

Among the lesser-known hiking trails in Svaneti is the Bach Mountain Trail. This trail passes over the pass between the communities of Etseri and Becho and is a rewarding experience for the adventurous who want to experience the beauty of the Svaneti landscape.

The trail begins in the village of Etseri and leads to the magnificent alpine pastures of the pass at an altitude of 2800 metres. From the mountain’s highest point, called ‘Destsild’ in Swahili, which means ‘little heaven’ in German, there is an unrivalled view of the surrounding mountains. From here, hikers can enjoy majestic panoramas of peaks such as Ushba and Tetnuldi, as well as the glaciers of the Svaneti Range.

On the other side of the pass, there is a small chapel where locals celebrate their religious festivals.

The Bakh Mountain Trail does not require any special preparation, as it is a medium-difficulty route. However, it is advisable to take sufficient food and water with you to keep you going during the hike.

Bakh Mountain

The route in pictures

The hike begins at the end of the settlement, which offers a beautiful photo opportunity. The houses of Etseri form a picturesque backdrop with Laila in the background.

The Detsildi Pass offers everything a hiker’s heart desires: colourful mountain meadows, snow-capped peaks and breathtaking scenery.

It’s as if you could reach out and touch Mount Ushba.

A symphony in three layers: the mountain meadows, the Ball Pass and Mount Tetnuldi.

Just experience and enjoy…

There is a chapel by a small mountain lake where the inhabitants of the Becho Valley celebrate their religious festivals.

The chapel is quite old and in ruins, but the setting is still beautiful.

The Uschba is reflected in the lake, one of the most beautiful photo opportunities of the day.

Latpari Pass

One of the most beautiful and rewarding hikes in Svaneti is over the Latpari Pass. This hike passes through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region, with snow-capped peaks, lush valleys and small but crystal-clear lakes in view throughout.

The pass is located on the Svaneti Range, which divides Svaneti into two parts – Lower and Upper Svaneti – and has been the shortest route to Kutaisi for the inhabitants of Upper Svaneti for centuries.

The route offers two hiking options:

1. The route starts in the village of Mami and leads through a beautiful mixed forest. After about 5-6 hours of hiking, you reach the pass, where there is a small chapel. On the pass, near a small lake, you can camp and spend the night. The next day, you can hike over the ridge of the Gorvaschi Pass to Uschguli in about 6 hours. Those who choose this route should plan for two days of hiking.
2. The trail begins in the village of Chvelpi and leads to the chapel on the pass. It is possible to drive to the pass in an off-road vehicle and then continue on foot to Ushguli. For those who want to complete the route in one day, we recommend travelling the first part to the pass by car.

Please note: the route is typical of Georgia’s mountainous regions and is difficult to navigate. We recommend hiring a 4×4 taxi with a local resident. We will be happy to help you book a taxi.

The route in pictures

The route to the pass is attractive and impressive.

There is a small lake right on the pass where you can camp and enjoy the unique view at sunset.

A small chapel has been built at the top of the pass, which offers a magnificent view.

The magnificent Besengi Wall with the highest mountain in Svaneti is reflected in a mountain lake.

Just stop and savour the moment.

The meltwater collects in a small depression and forms a small lake where hikers like to stop for a rest.

Ushguli, the Shkhara Valley and the Caucasus from a bird’s eye view.

Where could you find a better place for a short break?

One last time before the descent to Ushguli.

Murkmeli – the first village of Uschguli with its huge carpets.

Goldashi  Mountain

Mount Goldaschi is another hidden gem in the beautiful Svaneti region. This hike is ideal for those looking for a less demanding yet beautiful experience.

The mountain is located in Lower Svaneti on the southern side of the Svaneti Mountains and is known for its magnificent views and mountain meadows.

Like the Latpari Pass, the Goldaschi offers two different hiking options, both starting in Lentekhi:

1. The first option is to take an off-road vehicle about 12 km to the tree line and then hike to the highest point and back. In the evening, you can drive back to Lentekhi.
2. The second option is to hike directly from Lentekhi to the tree line. Here you can camp in old mountain pastures and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. The next day, you can hike about 2 hours to the lookout point and back, and then descend to Lentekhi.

The route passes through lush forests, rocky terrain and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. One of the highlights of the hike is reaching the summit of Goldaschi, which stands an impressive 3000 metres above sea level. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire region and feel a sense of achievement when you reach the summit.

The route is characterised by the fact that it does not require any special technical skills or preparation. Therefore, it is also well suited for less experienced hikers.

The route in pictures

Just before the tree line, you will reach a lookout point.

The beauty of the Swane Mountains can be seen here in all their splendour.

The Greater Caucasus is also in sight.

A popular lookout point along the route.

Every now and then, you should stop to enjoy the beautiful landscape…

… and photograph the blooming rhododendrons.

Do you think you are alone?

You’re absolutely right! You come across oxen and horses running free on the roads.

They enjoy their freedom in the mountains to the full!

After a brief shower, the clouds slowly withdraw – a quiet act of nature…

If you want to travel to the clouds, you should visit Svaneti!