Cross the Nakerala Pass into Racha for Shaori Lake, the carved stone of Nikortsminda, a Khvanchkara wine tasting and Oni's synagogue, all in one long day from Kutaisi.
| 08:00 | Pick-up in Kutaisi and departure toward Tkibuli, a coal-mining town with a Soviet-era tramway and reservoir. |
| 08:50 | Short stop in Tkibuli before climbing the Nakerala Pass road into Racha-Lechkhumi. |
| 10:00 | Stop at Shaori reservoir, a mountain lake formed by a Soviet-era dam, with views over the surrounding ridges. |
| 11:00 | Nikortsminda Cathedral, with its 11th-century carved facades and interior frescoes. |
| 12:00 | Ambrolauri, capital of Racha-Lechkhumi, and a visit to a Khvanchkara cellar for a tasting of the region's signature semi-sweet red. |
| 13:30 | Lunch at a Rachan farmhouse: lobiani (bean-filled bread) and local cured ham. |
| 15:00 | Drive on to Oni, the historic centre of Racha and gateway to Shovi and the Mamisoni Pass. |
| 16:00 | Walk through Oni's old town and visit the 19th-century synagogue. |
| 17:00 | Return drive to Kutaisi, retracing the Nakerala Pass road. |
| 19:00 | Drop-off in Kutaisi. |
Can this tour run in winter?
Yes, but the Nakerala Pass is sometimes affected by snow. We check road conditions on the morning of departure and will suggest an alternative date if the pass is closed.
Is there free time to buy wine?
Yes, the Khvanchkara cellar visit includes time to buy bottles directly, paid on the spot and not included in the tour price.
Do we visit Shovi or the Mamisoni Pass?
No, this day trip reaches Oni but does not continue to Shovi or over the Mamisoni Pass; that route is better suited to our two-day Racha tour.
What does lunch include?
Lobiani, a Rachan bean-filled bread, and local cured ham, served at a farmhouse near Ambrolauri. Dietary requests can be arranged if mentioned at booking.