By Nino Gelashvili, Travel News Editor · 16/10/2026
The only ground route into Tusheti, the Pshaveli–Abano–Omalo road, has partially reopened after its seasonal closure, according to Georgian authorities. Traffic has resumed between Lechura and Omalo, covering kilometres 12 to 72, but the section is restricted to high-clearance 4×4 vehicles.
The first stretch of the road, from Pshaveli to Lechura (km 1 to km 11), remains open to all vehicle types without restriction. Beyond Lechura, ordinary cars and minivans are still barred from continuing toward Omalo over the Abano Pass, where only 4×4 vehicles are permitted. The pass is known for steep, gravelled sections and dangerous drop-offs, and normally operates only through summer and early autumn before winter conditions force a full closure.
No date has been set for the pass’s final closure this season. Authorities warn that deteriorating weather could trigger a sudden, unannounced shutdown of the route.
What it means for travellers
Anyone driving to Tusheti or Omalo must use a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle past Lechura (km 11); ordinary cars cannot continue beyond that point. Check road conditions with a local driver or tour operator immediately before travel, as the Abano Pass can close without warning once weather worsens.
Photo: Moahim / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Source: SheniDasveneba (network tip-off, Georgian). Reported by the GTour desk; updated 16 October 2026, 23:52 (Tbilisi).
