Located 120 km from Tbilisi, this ski resort sits at 2,196m elevation in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The area has reliable snowfall from December to April and 70 km of marked slopes.
Gudauri rises 2,200 meters above sea level in Georgia's Greater Caucasus Mountains, where 75 kilometers of snow-covered slopes await skiers and snowboarders. You'll glide past the tree line, warm up with fresh khachapuri at mountain huts like Kudebi, and look out toward Mount Kazbek and other peaks that define the Europe-Asia boundary. From Tbilisi, you can reach this mountain resort in just 120 kilometers.
Getting to Gudauri
The journey from Tbilisi International Airport takes about 2.5 hours by car along the Georgian Military Highway. Regular marshrutkas (minibuses) depart from Tbilisi's Didube station every hour until 5 PM, with tickets costing around 15 GEL. Many visitors opt for private transfers, which provide more flexibility and comfort, especially when carrying ski equipment.
Skiing and Snow Conditions
The ski season typically runs from late December through mid-April, with the most reliable snow conditions from January to March. You can access 17 lifts that connect runs between 1,993 and 3,276 meters, giving you a vertical drop of nearly 1,300 meters. The south-facing slopes get plenty of sunlight during winter days, while the high elevation keeps the snow in good condition. Three slopes have snowmaking machines for additional coverage when needed.
Winter Activities
You can explore the surrounding peaks through heli-skiing with certified guides who know where to find untouched powder. On weekends, ski under the stars from 8 PM to 10 PM on illuminated trails near the first cableway. When weather conditions allow, take to the skies with tandem paragliding flights over the valley. For ground-level exploration, rent a snowmobile to navigate the surrounding valleys and see the mountains from a different angle.
Resort Areas
Gudauri consists of four main zones: Lower Gudauri, Upper Gudauri, Gudauri Center, and New Gudauri. In New Gudauri, you'll find modern buildings and immediate slope access. Around the first lift station in Lower Gudauri, several restaurants serve traditional Georgian dishes like khinkali and mtsvadi. Since walking paths between areas are limited, check your accommodation's location relative to the lifts before booking.
Local Landmarks
The circular stone Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument, built in 1983, overlooks the Devil's Valley with its dramatic mountain backdrop. Local celebrations reflect the area's geographic position between continents - you can experience both the January 1st New Year festivities and the traditional Old New Year celebrations on January 14th, each with their own customs and feasts.
