Plizio Visual Lab
Tbilisi Botanical Garden
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
park
The Tbilisi Botanical Garden, officially known as the National Botanical Garden of Georgia, is located in the historic center of the capital within the scenic Tsavkisistskali River gorge at the foot of the Narikala Fortress. With a history stretching back to the 17th century as a royal garden, it was officially established as a scientific institution in 1845. The garden spans 161 hectares and houses an impressive collection of over 4,500 plant species from the Caucasus and around the world. Architectural highlights include an elegant arched bridge over the river and a spectacular 20-meter-high waterfall located in the heart of the grounds. Beyond its role in botanical research and species conservation, the garden serves as a vital green lung for the city, offering tranquil areas and educational programs. Its terraced layout showcases masterful landscape design and reflects Georgia's long-standing botanical heritage.
- Location: Georgia
- Top sights: Forgotten Fruit Alley · National Botanical Garden · Rosarium
- Nearby: Mtskheta (16 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 3 | 7 | 12 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 20 | 14 | 7 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 18 | 17 | 28 | 49 | 58 | 49 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 38 | 25 | 17 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The primary entrance is dramatically situated just behind the imposing Narikala Fortress, reachable by a steep uphill walk from the old town or a scenic cable car ride. Another quieter entrance exists near the traditional Abanotubani sulfur baths.
Best season
Springtime bursts with spirited blooming collections, while autumn paints the deep gorge in spectacular shades of gold and red. The thick canopy of ancient trees provides a very welcome, shaded refuge from the often oppressive mid-summer heat.
Terrain & paths
The landscape spans a dramatic, steep-sided river gorge featuring a striking mixture of well-maintained paved paths and rougher, winding dirt trails. Expect numerous staircases, significant elevation changes, and a large natural waterfall area.
What to bring
Comfortable, supportive walking shoes are absolutely mandatory due to the extensive climbing required to explore the upper terraces. Carrying a reusable water bottle is highly advised, particularly when navigating the steep steps under the sun.
Parking
Public parking directly adjacent to the high entrances is notoriously scarce and navigating the narrow historic streets can be frustrating. The smartest approach is to take a taxi directly to the gate or walk up from the lower city districts.
Safety
Visitors must stick rigidly to the marked trails, especially when wandering near the dramatically sheer, unfenced edges of the deep gorge. The natural stone surfaces around the main waterfall naturally become very slippery due to the constant spray.
Time needed
A brief overview covering just the lower gardens and the main waterfall can be satisfyingly completed in about two hours. True plant enthusiasts and avid walkers regularly dedicate an entire afternoon to thoroughly traverse the upper ridge networks.
Geography
Facts
- Officially established on May 1, 1845, as a botanical institution.
- The garden covers a total area of approximately 161 hectares.
- Home to a diverse collection of over 4,500 plant taxa.
- Features a landmark 20-meter-high waterfall within its gorge.
- Houses a significant national herbarium with thousands of records.
- Located directly beneath the historic Narikala Fortress walls.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Tbilisi Botanical Garden (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How much is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee for adults is approximately 4 GEL. Discounts are available for students and children.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (May) for the blossoms and autumn (October) for the fall colors are the best times to visit.
Is there a waterfall in the garden?
Yes, there is an impressive 40-meter high waterfall with a bridge in front of it.
What are the opening hours?
The garden is open daily from 09:00 to 19:00, often staying open later during the summer.
Is the garden wheelchair accessible?
The main paths are paved, but there are many steep sections and stairs throughout.
Tbilisi Botanical Garden: where is it located?
Tbilisi Botanical Garden is located in Georgia.
Tbilisi Botanical Garden: what is there to see?
Highlights include Forgotten Fruit Alley, National Botanical Garden, Rosarium.
Tbilisi Botanical Garden: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Tbilisi Botanical Garden: why is it worth visiting?
The Tbilisi Botanical Garden, officially known as the National Botanical Garden of Georgia, is located in the historic center of the capital within the scenic Tsavkisistskali River gorge at the foot of the Narikala Fortress.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Georgia →
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
Bridge of Peace
The Bridge of Peace in Tbilisi is a striking, bow-shaped pedestrian bridge made of glass and steel over the Kura River, connecting the ol…
Gabriadze Theater
The picturesque marionette theater of Rezo Gabriadze in the old town of Tbilisi is famous for its leaning clock tower, from which an ange…
Tbilisi TV Broadcasting Tower
The Tbilisi TV Broadcasting Tower on Mount Mtatsminda is a landmark of the city, visible from almost everywhere in the capital at night d…
More places
Lilo City Market
Lilo Market on the outskirts of Tbilisi is the largest wholesale and retail market in Transcaucasia for consumer goods.
Mother of Georgia
The monumental statue 'Kartlis Deda' has watched over Tbilisi since 1958.
Narikala Fortress
Narikala is an ancient fortress towering over the capital Tbilisi, protecting the city since the 4th century.
Abanotubani Sulphur Baths
The historic bath district of Abanotubani in Tbilisi is famous for its traditional, dome-shaped bathhouses fed by natural hot sulphur spr…
Rike Park
This modern city park on the banks of the Kura River in Tbilisi impresses with its futuristic design.
Mtatsminda Park
Perched high above Tbilisi, this historic amusement park offers rides for all ages and spectacular panoramic views.
Mount Mtatsminda
The Holy Mountain Mtatsminda dominates the skyline of the capital, Tbilisi.
Mushtaidi Park
One of the oldest parks in Tbilisi was established by a Persian prince and is home to centuries-old trees and a historic children's railway.