Destination of the Month! TUSHETI - Highland of the Georgian spirit! 03.08.2006 Highlights: Deep canyons of rivers, narrow mountain paths, stone dwelling houses and towers (different from Svaneti and Khevsureti), untouched by civilization, local festivals. Climate: The climate in gorge and riverside region is dry and continental. Average temperature in summer 12-25 c. Long cold winters and short cool summers. In July, August 25-35 c daytime, night 8-10 c. Major settlements & cultural sites: Omalo, Dartlo, Dano, Diklo, Kumelaurta, Shenako, Shtrolta, Khakhabo, Khiso, Chesho, Parsma, Jvarboseli. Villages with towers are cultural heritage of Tusheti. Season and Access: Mountainous ground road runs over the pass which is open from the end of June till mid October. The ideal conditions are from second part of July through August till mid of September. Other months the access to Tusheti is available only by helicopter. Transportation: Due to road conditions, the best way to get to Tusheti is by 4x4 vehicle or 6 X 6 truck. Catering: 3 daily meals arranged by locals. The combination of local food and dry food for picnic lunches is provided. Accommodation facilities: farmhouses in villages by locals, shared, simple & clean rooms, WC / shower indoor & outdoor. Nature and outdoor sights: Bird watching: mountain turkey, partridge, mountain eagle, hawk, falcon. Animal watching: chamois, bear, fox, hare, wolf. Vegetation: alpine and sub alpine verdure, pine forests, fields, bushes. Rivers: Pirikiti Alazani, Tsovatistskali, Ortskali, Chanchakhovanis Tskali. Mountains: Diklosmta(4285), Tebulosmta(4493), Komito, Danosmta, Ukericho, Kerigo, Kachuilami. The northern range has several high mountains: Tebulo 4500m. Kachu 3550. Diklosmta 4285. Required equipment: warm and rainproof outfit, comfortable walking boots/shoes, warm & sun hats, sun block, rucksack. Brief history:The life of Tushs is very original. Its mountain basin consists of four historical tribes Tsova, Gometsari, Chagma and Pirikiti Tusheti. In 4th c. Tusheti was a shelter of mountain dwellers who were against conversion to Christianity. From the 5th c. Tusheti became part of the eastern Georgian Kingdom and formed a part of the Principality of Kakheti. In the second part of the 17th c. Tusheti had been a stronghold for the King Erekle II in his struggle for the throne. Later, Tushs were granted land in these parts by Kakhetian king as a token for the great courage they displayed in repelling successive invaders. Due to their diligence and industry, Tushs managed to turn these fertile marshlands into productive valleys. Tushs lead something of a nomadic life. In wintertime most move to Lower Tusheti-Alvani and villages of Kakheti, in summer they reside in the mountains again. The population of this region is 40 000. Local Festivals: There are lots of festivals starting from the end of July to middle of August (dates to be advised by local community leaders). Most of the festivals are dedicated to local deities whose banners led Tushetians in the war in old times. Some holidays are long lasting. Young men from different valleys compete in horse riding, wrestling, dancing and singing. Each family brings food and drink. The feast lasts till late evening. If you happen to be there at the time of festival, you will never want to leave this freedom-loving people and hospitable land. Important Notes: -There is no electricity at all in Tusheti, the hosts will arrange oil lamps and candles at their homes. It is better to have flashlights. -The guide reserves the right to change the itinerary due to flooding, heavy rain, land- slides, avalanches. Meantime, the program is flexible according to special demands or remarks. Local Tush guide assists during the tour, as he is familiar with local area, habits, traditions and population. -The tour is not recommended for those with serious walking difficulties. Itinerary (the subject to options): Day 1. Tbilisi - Telavi - Alvani - Shenako (220 km, 8-9 hours driving) Day 2. Shenako Day 3. Shenako - Dartlo - Chesho (35 km, 1-2 hours driving) Day 4. Chesho - Parsma - Girevi - Chesho (25 km, 1-2 hours driving) Day 5. Chesho - Gometsari gorge - Shenako (50 km, 2-3 hours driving) Day 6. Shenako - Tbilisi (220 km, 8-9 hours driving) For more details contact Caucasus Travel New office at online@caucasustravel.com, Address: #3, Lesia Ukrainka str., 3rd fl. Tbilisi, Georgia, Phone: 995 32 987400/931175, Fax: 995 32 987399 By Ia Tabagari <<STORY archive Back to STORYS Next>>