ZURABTRAVEL
The Mtskheta-Stepantsminda-Lars highway, also known as the Military Georgian Road, passes through the Main Caucasus Range and connects Vladikavkaz and Tbilisi. The length of the road is 208 km. The road rises along the Terek River valley, crosses the rocky ridge through the Darial Gorge, then rises to the Cross Pass (2384 m) and descends to the valley of the White Aragvi River and approaches Tbilisi along the right bank of the Kura River.
The Military Georgian Road is one of the most beautiful routes in the Caucasus.
“A true friend will help his friend and is not afraid of adversity. He will give his heart for a heart, and love will be a star on the journey.”
Shota Rustaveli (inscription on the observation deck at the Cross Pass)
Almost throughout its entire length, the Military Georgian Road is an endless succession of stunning mountain landscapes, especially in the Darial and Gudauri Gorges, in the area of the Zhinvali reservoir, and at the Cross Pass.
Sights of the Military Georgian Road:
Ananuri Fortress - the most popular medieval castle in Georgia. It was built in such a way that no army could pass by unnoticed, and therefore the fortress was the main stronghold on the way from the Darial Gorge to Dusheti and from Russia to Georgia. Zhinvali Reservoir - one of the most beautiful artificial reservoirs in Georgia. The water, constantly changing color, the blue sky, and the mountains create a stunning picture. Arch of Friendship of Peoples is located at the Cross Pass at an altitude of 2384 m. It was dedicated to the anniversary of the Georgievsky Treaty, and in honor of this event, an observation deck was opened on the pass. Gudauri - one of the five ski resorts and the most popular due to its proximity to Tbilisi. In winter, it is possible to ski and ride snowmobiles here, ride on a cable car. And in summer, you can ride horses or ATVs. For enthusiasts of extreme sports, there is a field here equipped for paragliding.