Bakuriani (its name translates as “Quiet Mountain”) is a small settlement in Georgia and one of the country’s most popular ski resorts. It has earned its reputation thanks to the stunning landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains, traditional Georgian hospitality, and a wide range of leisure options to suit different tastes and budgets.
- Resort and history
- Bakuriani prices 2026
- Major ski slopes
- Ski lifts and ride zones
- Children and beginners
- Weather in Bakuriani
- Beyond Skiing
- How to get to Bakuriani
- Car rental options in wintertime
- Accommodation and Infrastructure
Resort and history
The resort itself — believe it or not — sits inside a volcanic crater. Luckily, the volcano is long extinct. This origin explains the dramatic scenery. Bakuriani lies at an altitude of 1,700 meters, with crisp mountain air that feels especially fresh. The resort stands in central Georgia, where the climate stays mild and reliable snow covers the slopes for about five months.
Bakuriani suits complete beginners as well as confident skiers and snowboarders. Advanced riders usually stay interested for three or four days. The resort lists black runs, but in reality many of them function more like freeride zones than classic prepared pistes.
The resort’s history dates back to the 19th century, when this scenic area with clean mountain air became a recreational retreat for members of the royal family. During the Soviet era, Bakuriani functioned as a holiday destination mainly for senior officials and public figures. Over time, the resort opened up to a broader audience. It gradually evolved from an elite retreat into a family-friendly destination with well-developed infrastructure and grew into one of Georgia’s key centers for winter sports.
Prices at the Bakuriani Ski Resort in 2026
Ski pass price
A ski pass (also called a lift pass) gives skiers access to the cable cars and lifts. A single ride costs 15 GEL, while three rides cost 35 GEL and remain valid on any day. But it is not enough of course. The price of multi-day passes varies by duration and age.
Bakuriani only winter passes
- 7 Days (Adult / Child) – 296 GEL / 148 GEL
- 6 Days (Adult / Child) – 253 GEL / 127 GEL
- 5 Days (Adult / Child) – 230 GEL / 115 GEL
- 4 Days (Adult / Child) – 204 GEL / 102 GEL
- 3 Days (Adult / Child) – 157 GEL / 79 GEL
- 2 Days (Adult / Child) – 110 GEL / 55 GEL
- 1 Day (Adult / Child) – 55 GEL / 28 GEL
Special categories
- Sport School (Child) – 10 GEL
- Student Season Pass – 180 GEL
- Family Pass – 135 / 160 GEL
Other activities (Multipass)
- Night skiing: Adult – 40 GEL, Child – 20 GEL
- Toboggan: Adult – 20 GEL, Child – 20 GEL
- 3 rides – 35 GEL
- 1 ride – 15 GEL
Two-resort winter passes
Bakuriani / Goderdzi
- Season Pass (Adult) – 325 GEL
- Season Pass (Child 6–12) – 165 GEL
- Season Pass Junior (13–18) – 210 GEL
Multi-resort winter passes
Bakuriani / Gudauri / Goderdzi / Mestia
Seasonal passes
- Season Pass (Adult) – 650 GEL
- Season Pass (Child 6–12) – 325 GEL
- Season Pass Junior (13–18) – 375 GEL
- Student Season Pass – 300 GEL
Multi-day passes
- 10 Days in a Season (Adult) – 460 GEL
- 10 Days in a Season (Child) – 230 GEL
- 7 Days in a Season (Adult) – 370 GEL
- 7 Days in a Season (Child) – 185 GEL
Ski rental price
Ski rental prices also depend on the area. In Didveli, one hour of ski rental costs 10 GEL. A full day usually costs from 30 GEL. A snowboard costs from 35 GEL per day. In high season prices can be also higher.
Bakuriani main ski slopes
Bakuriani currently offers several ski runs with different difficulty levels: Kokhta, Kokhta-2, Plateau, Didveli, “25-Metrovka,” and Mitarbi. All slopes have lighting, so you can ski in the evening as well.
Kokhta
The name “Kokhta” means “Beautiful” in Georgian. This run suits advanced skiers. The two-stage slope stretches for about 1.5 km and uses a chairlift. The upper section feels the most challenging due to its steep descent and a slope angle of up to 52 degrees.
Kokhta-2
Kokhta-2 works well for confident skiers who already have experience but do not yet ski at a professional level. Beginners should avoid it. Steep sections alternate with gentler parts, which makes the run varied but demanding. The total length reaches three kilometers.
Plateau
Beginners usually start on the Plateau slope. This short 300-meter run has a gentle incline of 10–12 degrees. Children can ski here comfortably as well.
Didveli
Didveli ranks as the most popular slope in Bakuriani. It runs along the scenic slopes of Mount Sakvelo and combines sport with great views. The longest section reaches four kilometers. Only experienced skiers should attempt the second and third parts. Beginners usually stay below and enjoy the scenery.
25-Metrovka
“25-Metrovka” attracts the largest crowds. The slope took its name from a nearby 25-meter ski jump. Skiing here feels easy, which makes the run ideal for training and first attempts. Prices on this slope stay noticeably lower than on the others.
Mitarbi
Mitarbi reopened to visitors two years ago after a 30-year break. The run targets advanced skiers rather than casual riders and feels similar to Didveli. Infrastructure here still lags behind the main slopes.
Off-piste skiing in Bakuriani
Bakuriani also offers plenty of backcountry terrain and freeride zones. The northern slopes of Kokhta keep the snow dry and powdery. In most cases, skiers can reach these areas from the lifts with a short hike along the ridge.
You can also do backcountry tours to nearby peaks. You can find an experienced guide through the info center or your hotel staff.
Heliskiing is available as well.
In addition, the resort features three ski jumps with heights of 70, 45, and 90 meters.
Ski lifts and ride zones
The resort uses modern and comfortable lift systems, including several recently installed ones. Bakuriani operates chairlifts with two-seat chairs, with a total length of about 1.2 km. Visitors also use the Tatra cable car and four surface drag lifts. These tow lifts run on cable systems that pull skiers uphill.
Lift operating hours
- Daytime: from 10:00 to 18:00.
- Evening skiing (on Diveli lower level): from 18:00 to 22:00.
Some cable cars operate all year round, making them convenient not only for skiers but also for hikers and cyclists.
Bakuriani ski map
Ride zones in Bakuriani
Bakuriani has three main ski areas: Didveli, Kokhta, and Mitarbi. It also has two beginner zones often called “nursery slopes.”
All ski areas sit 3–5 km away from the village center, where most hotels stand. A rental car makes getting around much easier.
Lift lines usually stay short. They appear mainly during the New Year holidays. Chairlifts are enclosed and have protective screens, so you do not feel wind or cold and can enjoy wide mountain views.
Resort staff groom the pistes every night, so slope conditions stay consistently good.
Didveli
Didveli is a three-level ski area with eight pistes and a total length of 16 km.
You reach the first level by a modern six-seat Nodo gondola. The vertical drop is 307 m (2161–1854 m).
From this level start three blue runs:
- Didveli 1 – 1990 m
- Didveli 2 – 1605 m
- Didveli 3 – 1300 m
One red run also begins here:
- Nodo – 1410 m
The map marks Nodo as red, though it feels easier than expected. This whole level suits advanced beginners well. Slopes stay wide and easy to read. A children’s area and a café operate at the top.
The second level has two lifts.
The Slalom drag lift has a vertical drop of 300 m (2450–2150 m). Two red runs start here:
- Slalom – 1550 m, with a short black section
- Deka – 1505 m
These pistes suit confident skiers with solid intermediate skills.
The two-seat Deka chairlift has a vertical drop of 350 m (2500–2150 m). Two descents follow:
- Tsakadze appears as black on the map. It often stays ungroomed and serves freeriders. Beginners should avoid it. Length: 1505 m.
- A short red Deka section leads back toward the SLALOM lift.
The third level is a funicular that takes riders to the top of Didveli at 2702 m. The vertical drop is 202 m (2702–2500 m).
Here begins the black Panorama run. Grooming does not always happen, which attracts freeriders. The slope feels wide, open, and comfortable, with a length of 602 m. The resort closes it during fog.
Kokhta
Kokhta is a two-level area with two identical chairlifts. The vertical drop reaches 432 m (2157–1725 m). Total piste length is 3.1 km.
The first level uses the Kokhta-Plato lift. The wide blue Kokhta-Plato run starts here. Its length is 1200 m. This slope fits skiers who feel past beginner level but are not ready for steeper terrain yet. It works perfectly for skill polishing.
The second level uses the Kokhta-Gora lift. Two runs descend from here:
- Kokhta-Gora 1 – a professional black run, 800 m long. It is genuinely steep, with sections over 50°.
- Kokhta-Gora 2 – a blue run, 1430 m long. It feels narrow and dull for advanced skiers, but it suits beginners who want to step up.
Mitarbi
Mitarbi is a two-level area with two modern chairlifts.
The first level uses Mitarbi I. The vertical drop is 365 m (2006–1641 m). Runs include:
- Mitarbi 1 – red, 1612 m
- Mitarbi 3 – red, 1210 m
- Mitarbi 2 – blue connector, 880 m
These red runs suit skiers more than snowboarders.
The second level uses Mitarbi II. The vertical drop is 208 m (2207–1999 m). Runs include:
- Mitarbi 4 – 1361 m. Officially blue, but narrow, fast, and with long runouts. Part of it passes near a cliff. It fits very confident skiers only.
- Mitarbi 7 – red, 1230 m. A pleasant run with great mountain views.
- Mitarbi 5 and Mitarbi 6 – black sections, 502 m and 420 m.
Mitarbi and Kokhta complement each other well. A drag lift connects them.
Bakuriani for children and beginners
For children and beginners the resort offers two learning areas, Twenty Fives and Central Park. Twenty Fives suits absolute newcomers especially well. The slope there is short, wide and gentle. It allows you to slide down a couple of times on brakes and feel that skiing or snowboarding feels fun and not scary at all. The area includes two drag lifts and two chairlifts. A special lift works for sledding as well.
There is one detail to keep in mind. If you ski confidently but your child has never tried skiing before, you will spend time on slopes several kilometers apart. The child will train with an instructor, while you will ride on your own.
Ski instructors in Bakuriani
With a few free days and serious intentions, an instructor can teach you everything from scratch. You will learn how to fasten boots correctly, take the right stance, move technically on the slope and feel comfortable with speed. During the first sessions the instructor skis nearby, corrects mistakes and provides support. Each next descent becomes faster and more confident.
Instructors work with both children and adults. An hour of training costs from 50 to 60 GEL, and you pay for the lift separately.
You can meet an instructor directly on the mountain or ask your hotel for recommendations. If you plan a trip to Bakuriani during the New Year holidays, contact an instructor in advance to book suitable time slots.
If you choose to take lessons, expect to pay an additional 40–60 GEL for an instructor.
Winter Weather in Bakuriani
Bakuriani lies on the northern slope of the Trialeti Range at an altitude of about 1,700 meters above sea level. This location strongly shapes the local climate, which has clear continental features. Mountains protect the area from strong winds.
Winters stay relatively mild and bring plenty of snow. The snow cover often reaches up to 60 cm, but normally snow cover reaches about 50 centimeters.
Average winter temperatures range from −6 to −7 °C. Avalanches almost never occur here. Locals call minus 8–10 degrees a severe frost, and such days usually bring bright sun.
Bakuriani also enjoys many sunny days. Out of 365 days a year, around 210 bring sunshine. On clear days, the resort offers impressive views of the Caucasus Mountains and Mount Elbrus. Calm weather adds another advantage. Strong winds rarely blow here, which makes long ski days more comfortable.
Ski season in Bakuriani
The ski season in Bakuriani usually starts in December and lasts until March or even April, but these dates remain quite flexible. Winters differ from year to year, so travelers should check the weather in advance. Specialized forums help a lot, and visitors can ask people who already ski on the slopes.
From January to March, the snow quality suits skiing best. Travelers who want to combine active sports with a light winter tan should plan a trip for February.
The Didveli area uses 34 snow sprayers and two snow cannons to extend the season.
Beyond Skiing
If downhill skiing does not feel fully comfortable for you, Bakuriani can still be a great choice. The resort offers plenty of activities beyond skis and snowboards.
You can rent a snowmobile and explore the snowy surroundings. Ice skating is another popular option. Many travelers choose horseback rides through winter landscapes. Others prefer paragliding to admire the mountains from above. As you can see, the range of winter activities here is quite wide.
Thrill-seekers can try a roller-coaster-style attraction called the Toboggan. It lets even first-time visitors experience the rush of a “black run” without technical skiing skills.
The Didveli viewpoint stands at an altitude of 2,702 meters. You can reach it by funicular. Even if you come to Bakuriani without plans to ski, go up there with a camera. In summer visitors can take a bicycle onto the funicular and ride back down. This descent does not require stunt skills, only confident riding.
For children the center of the village offers a small amusement park with trampolines, a shooting range, a slide area and an ice rink.
Cross-country skiing fans often set their sights on the Tsratskaro Pass. The route starts about 13 km from Bakuriani and leads up to an altitude of 2,780 meters.
How to get to Bakuriani
From Tbilisi
Bakuriani situated about 180 km from Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. Travelers usually choose an organized transfer from the city, as it offers the most convenience. If you do not have a transfer booked, you can still reach the resort in several other ways.
Taxi
The easiest option is a taxi. The trip costs around 210 GEL. It is better to order a taxi by phone or through a mobile app such as Yandex Go. Taxis picked up directly on the street usually charge much higher fares.
When ordering a taxi, pay attention to the vehicle’s condition and capacity. In winter it is worth checking whether the car has winter tires, as in some regions of Georgia changing tires is not mandatory.
Minibus
Another option is a minibus No. 25. It departs from the bus station between 7:00 and 17:00, roughly once an hour, meaning they depart when full. These minibuses do not follow a fixed timetable and leave once they fill up. The journey lasts about three hours.
A minibus is a good option for those traveling light and able to tolerate fast driving with plenty of sharp turns. An unaccustomed passenger may feel carsick, but the trip is budget-friendly—18 GEL per person (about $6.76). The journey takes around four hours. They leave exclusively from Didube bus station in Tbilisi, and there are no direct services from Tbilisi airport.
Train
You can also travel with a transfer in Borjomi. First, take a train from Tbilisi Central Railway Station to Borjomi. Get off at the “Black Cuckoo” station, part of a famous narrow-gauge railway served by the historic Kukushka train. The trip takes about four hours to Borjomi and another two and a half hours to Bakuriani – the “Kukushka” travels at only 15 km/h.
The train is convenient if you are not carrying large bags with equipment. The trip takes about seven hours and requires a transfer. Tickets (each of them) start from 6 GEL (about $2.5). Trains depart from Tbilisi-Passenger railway station and arrive in Borjomi.
A minibus from Borjomi takes roughly an hour; speed and comfort depend greatly on its condition. The price is from 3 GEL (about $1.10). Services operate from 9:00 to 17:00.
From Kutaisi
The distance from Kutaisi to Bakuriani is 155 kilometers. You can cover it by minibus, taxi, or rental car.
Minibus
Minibuses depart from Kutaisi bus station. Travel time is 3–4 hours, depending on the season, the driver’s style, and the condition of the vehicle. The fare starts from 15 GEL (about $6). If you are traveling with bulky equipment or do not tolerate sharp turns well, this transfer option is best avoided.
Taxi
Taxi prices start from 150 GEL (about $56). However, once local drivers realize the route goes up into the mountains, the price often rises immediately. Bargaining skills will come in handy. Before getting in, be sure to check the car’s condition inside and out—the road is long.
Go To Georgia advice. For the return journey it is advisable to allow extra time, especially if you are flying the same day. Check-in for flights opens two hours before departure.
Car rental to Bakuriani
A rental car suits those who prefer to travel at their own pace and in comfort. You can pick up a vehicle right at Tbilisi or Kutaisi airport upon arrival.
On the Georgian market Localrent.com has most representative offers from plenty of the regional car rental companies, and they mostly offer exact car, not similar. Also good choice of the vehicles you will find at DiscoverCars.com.
The route from Tbilisi follows the E60 highway and takes just under three hours, depending on traffic and weather.
The drive from Kutaisi to Bakuriani takes 3–4 hours. The road is good and paved, though mountainous. The car usually can be returned in another city (depending on the company, it is better to ask).
Car for a trip to the mountains
For a winter trip to the mountains, a four-wheel-drive SUV with an engine of at least 3 liters is the best option. Mountain roads can become slippery and snow-covered, so you need a powerful and well-controlled vehicle. A small car will struggle in such conditions and will not provide enough safety.
Winter tires and snow chains are essential for this kind of journey. If you plan to travel to mountain areas between December 1 and March 1, choose a car with these additional options included.
A car will also help a lot at the resort itself. You can save money on taxis if your hotel stands far from your favorite slope. You may even choose accommodation farther from the lifts, more comfortable and cheaper, and still move around easily.
Bakuriani on the map
Driving in winter
Before departure, always check the weather forecast. In winter, snowstorms, ice, and avalanche risks can lead to traffic restrictions on certain road sections.
Drive carefully and stay calm on the road.
If your car gets stuck in the snow, do not panic. You can ask for help from local residents, passing drivers, taxi operators, or even the police.
If necessary, contact the rental company. They can assist with finding a tow truck or special equipment. The renter usually covers the cost of such services.
As a last resort, you can call the emergency number 112. This service requires payment.
Keep in mind that fuel consumption in the mountains increases by up to 50 percent, depending on driving style and the steepness of the climbs.
Parking near the slopes
Parking areas operate right next to the ski lifts, but finding a free space often depends on luck. At Didveli, especially during the high season, available spots may be hard to find. Kohkta and Mitarbi usually offer more свободные места and feel less crowded.
Visitors can save money and leave the car lower down the road, but walking uphill to the lift in ski or snowboard boots with equipment brings little pleasure.
Parking along the roadside remains possible even during the New Year holidays and, of course, costs nothing. However, such parking cannot be called comfortable or premium.
Accommodation and Infrastructure in Bakuriani
The village is small and consists of just two main streets, so everything stays close. The main landmark is the police building, which also serves as an information center and the bus station. Getting lost is almost impossible, because signs stand at every intersection.
To eat in Bakuriani
Bakuriani has several shops, cafés, restaurants, and even a casino.
Most visitors eat at their hotels, so the number of standalone restaurants remains limited. One of the popular places is Khinkali House No.1, where guests find tasty food at reasonable prices.
A few small cafés operate in the village, and bakeries sell fresh khachapuri. There are also several local grocery stores.
Cafes and restaurants on the slopes
Small cafes work on the mountain slopes. They offer drinks, snacks, and hot dogs.
Didveli has two cafes. “Orange” stands near the lower station, and “Le Ponchik” works at the middle station.
The Kokhta slope runs almost through the village itself, so visitors find plenty of cafes and small shops nearby.
Mitarbi has a kiosk-style cafe with space for a couple of tables. It sits next to the parking area. The menu includes snacks, hot dogs, mulled wine, and chacha.
Currency exchange
Payment in US dollars or euros is not accepted — only Georgian lari can be used. Currency exchange offices work in the central part of the village, not far from the information center. Right across from the cinema you will find a currency exchange office with a good rate and no commission.
Sometimes you may need lari right at the airport, where exchange offices are available. It is better to change only a small amount there, as the exchange rate, although not dramatically, is usually less выгодный than in the city.
Internet and mobile communication
To stay connected in Georgia at all times, it is worth getting a SIM card from a local mobile operator. Otherwise, if something happens on the road, for example you get stuck in a snowdrift, you may have to rely solely on the goodwill of passing drivers.
SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, in the city, or directly at the resort. All major operators provide good 4G coverage.
Wi-Fi will most likely be available in your hotel.
Accommodation
Travelers should book accommodation in advance, especially during the high season.
Every second house in Bakuriani functions as a mini-hotel or guesthouse with full amenities. Larger European-style hotels and cottages stand on the western edge of the village. They offer swimming pools, massage rooms, bars, and gyms, and many of them have animation teams.
For those who look for luxury with spacious rooms, large terraces, modern appliances, and pools, four-star options such as Hotel Villa Palace and Orbi Palace Eleonora suit best.
Most hotels provide free parking for their guests.