Terjola is located in the Imereti Lowland in western Georgia, on the right bank of the Chkhara. The town’s history is reflected in museums and churches in the municipality, as well as in caves, waterfalls and forests. Cultural history and natural attractions shape Terjola in different ways.
Terjola and its history
Terjola was granted town status in 1983; the place was first mentioned in the 17th century. These two dates mark different milestones: the first mention came well before it was granted town status. A historic monument nearby is Dedagvtisa in Gvankiti, dating from the 12th century. The Church of St. George is in Gogni. Pilgrims visit it on May 6 and November 23; the church has no doors and welcomes worshippers at any time.
Museums and cultural heritage
In the municipality, visitors can visit the David and Sergo Kldiashvili Museum and the Shalva and Petre Amiranashvili Museum. Visiting arrangements may change; check them before planning your visit. The David Kldiashvili House Museum opened in 1945. Its collection includes the writer’s manuscripts, photographs and documents, as well as furniture, dishes and clothing; his deathbed is also part of the collection. Written works, personal belongings and everyday objects are brought together here. The history of the municipality also includes Stone Age caves and medieval fortresses and churches.
Caves, waterfalls and forests
The Navenakhevi Cave in Imereti has four chambers on two levels. Its limestone formations include stalactites and stalagmites; a seven-metre-high stalagmite stands at the exit. Visitor facilities include a car park, visitor centre, cafeteria and amphitheatre, as well as attractions for children. There are also educational venues, cafés and forest trails near the cave. An asphalt road leads to the cave and is passable by any type of car. Facilities and visiting arrangements may change; check them before your visit.
The Mujireti Cave has a main passage with short side passages in an upper limestone layer. Access is via a village road passable by car, followed by a 200-metre trail; access conditions may vary seasonally. A certified guide and specialist equipment are required to visit Dzevri Cave. Sakazhia Cave is considered a Palaeolithic site where early humans lived in Transcaucasia. A permit from the Imereti Caves Protected Areas Administration is required to visit. Requirements range from a trail to mandatory accompaniment, equipment or a permit.
Kadagidze Rafi Waterfall near Sazano is four metres high and lies in the Dzusa Gorge. Seven dinosaur footprints have been preserved nearby. When water levels are low in summer, the 25-metre-long entrance to a cave may become visible; it can be seen only when the water level is sufficiently low. Forests also shape the municipality: the vegetation is of Colchian type. Tree species found there include oak, beech, lime, Caucasian zelkova, boxwood, willow and mulberry.
Wine and regional cuisine
Makaridze Winery continues a family winemaking tradition in Terjola; Otskhanuri Sapere vines have been planted there. Qvevris are used in the family cellar. The winery offers wine sales and tastings; a booking is required for a tasting. As visitor services may change, confirm availability in advance and book the tasting. In the culinary context of Imereti, Terjola is also associated with young chicken in isrim-makvali sauce. Whether a household or restaurant offers the dish varies.
Road connections and accommodation planning
Terjola is on the Tbilisi–Zestafoni highway. The Terjola–Tkibuli road and the Kutaisi–Vartsikhe road, both of state importance, also pass through the town. These road connections help place Terjola within the region.
More destinations
Discover more destinations: Alaverdi, Kveda Kinchkha, Kutaisi, Zestafoni, Chkvishi, Tskaltubo, Etseri, Kursebi
Back to the main travel overview: Imereti.
