Kutaisi: Chiatura Cable Cars & Katskhi Pillar Guided Tour

Discover the lesser-known wonders of the Imereti region on a guided tour from Kutaisi, beginning with the extraordinary Katskhi Pillar — a 40-meter limestone monolith crowned with a small church perched dramatically on its summit. This unique spiritual landmark, isolated and awe-inspiring, has long symbolized ascetic devotion and attracts visitors seeking both mystery and breathtaking scenery. From there, the tour takes you to the historic mining town of Chiatura, once one of the world’s top manganese producers. Chiatura is famous for its Soviet-era cable car system built in the 1950s, an engineering marvel designed to move miners across the city’s steep cliffs. Although modern gondolas have replaced the old system, you’ll still witness the abandoned originals — the legendary “flying coffins” — hanging eerily over the landscape, offering a surreal glimpse into Georgia’s industrial past.

After experiencing Chiatura like a local with a ride on the new gondola lift, you’ll explore the town’s scattered remnants of Soviet heritage, including monuments, mosaics, and typical residential architecture that reflect a bygone era. The journey continues to the Mghvimevi Convent, a remarkable monastic complex uniquely carved into the rock, blending harmoniously with the surrounding cliffs. Its peaceful ambiance and ancient frescoes provide a serene contrast to Chiatura’s industrial history. As the day concludes, enjoy the scenic drive back to Kutaisi, enriched with stories, landscapes, and cultural insights that showcase the diverse and authentic character of western Georgia.