Historic view of the Botanical Garden in Tbilisi in the 1870s showing cultivated plants and pathways

National Botanical Garden Of Georgia

National Botanical Garden of Georgia, Tbilisi: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled beneath the ancient Narikala Fortress in the heart of Tbilisi, the National Botanical Garden of Georgia is a vibrant sanctuary of botanical diversity, history, and scientific achievement. Spanning over 160 hectares, the garden offers a peaceful retreat, educational opportunities, and a window into Georgia’s rich natural and cultural heritage. This guide provides detailed information on the garden’s history, significance, visiting hours, ticketing, main attractions, and practical travel tips to help you make the most of your visit (National Botanical Garden of Georgia, Tbilisi City Hall, Georgian Travel Guide).

Historical botanical garden in Tbilisi from the 1870s

Historical botanical gardens in Tbilisi, Georgia

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visiting Information
Garden Layout and Main Attractions
- Thematic Zones and Plant Collections
- Key Landmarks and Activities
Conservation, Education, and Cultural Significance
Visitor Tips and FAQs
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

Early Origins and Royal Beginnings (17th–18th Centuries)

The National Botanical Garden of Georgia traces its roots to the early 17th century as a royal garden for the Georgian monarchy. First mentioned by French traveler Jean Chardin in 1671, the gardens were famed for their lushness and strategic location beneath the Narikala Fortress (georgiaintrend.com). By 1735, the gardens appeared on city maps, reflecting their longstanding significance (reinisfischer.com).

Turbulence and Restoration (Late 18th–19th Centuries)

Following devastation during the 1795 Persian invasion, the gardens underwent restoration under Russian rule. In 1845, Count Mikhail Vorontsov transformed the site into the Tiflis Botanical Garden, establishing its role as an institution for botanical research and education (georgiantouristservice.ge).

Scientific Development and Modernization (Late 19th–20th Centuries)

The late 19th and 20th centuries saw significant expansion, including the creation of floristics centers and incorporation of adjacent lands. The garden’s collections diversified, infrastructure improved, and it became a center for plant acclimatization and conservation. Notable historic features, like the 1914 bridge over the Tsavkisistskali River, remain landmarks today (georgiaabout.com).

Visiting Information

Hours, Tickets, and Booking

Opening Hours:
- Spring/Summer (April–September): 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Autumn/Winter (October–March): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Confirm holiday hours and updates on the official website.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: ~4–5 GEL
- Students: 1 GEL
- Schoolchildren: 0.50 GEL
- Family ticket: 6 GEL
- Children under 6: Free
- Tickets are available at the entrance and online (National Botanical Garden of Georgia Tickets).
Guided Tours:
- Offered in Georgian, English, and Russian, with advance booking recommended for groups.

Facilities and Accessibility

Accessibility:
- Paved and wheelchair-accessible paths in main areas. Some routes are moderately hilly and may have steps.
- Assistance available upon request; service animals allowed.
Amenities:
- Restrooms, clean drinking water fountains, shaded benches, café, picnic areas, children’s playground.
- Park maps and clear signage are provided at the entrance and throughout the grounds.

Getting There

Location:
- 1 Botanikuri Street, central Tbilisi, near Narikala Fortress and Abanotubani.
Transport Options:
- Walkable from Old Town and sulfur baths.
- Buses and metro (Avlabari station) within walking distance.
- Taxis/rideshares widely available.
- Limited parking near the entrance; early arrival recommended (dolidoki.com).

Best Time to Visit

Spring and Early Summer: Best for blooms and comfortable weather.
Autumn: Dramatic foliage colors.
Early mornings/late afternoons: Quieter, ideal for photography.

Garden Layout and Main Attractions

Thematic Zones and Plant Collections

Caucasian Flora:
- Preserves native Georgian and regional species, including endangered and endemic plants (BGCI).
Ornamental and Exotic Collections:
- Rose and lilac gardens, Japanese garden, conifer groves, bamboo stands.
Aquatic Features:
- Tsavkisistskali River, ponds, and water-lily pools supporting diverse plants and wildlife (georgia.travel).

Key Landmarks and Activities

Tsavkisistskali Waterfall:
- Central natural highlight, viewed from historic bridges (georgia.travel).
Historic Bridges:
- Including Queen Tamar’s Bridge and 19th-century structures.
Narikala Fortress and Zipline:
- Zipline from the fortress to the garden offers a thrilling city panorama (dolidoki.com).
Playground and Family Zones:
- Dedicated areas for children, family picnics, and relaxation.
Museum and Visitor Center:
- Exhibits on botanical research and conservation (georgia.travel).
Azerbaijani Pantheon:
- Burial site for notable Azerbaijani figures, highlighting the city’s multicultural past.

Conservation, Education, and Cultural Significance

Biodiversity Conservation:
- Houses over 4,500 plant species from Georgia and abroad.
- Engaged in seed banking, restoration, and global plant conservation initiatives (BGCI Member Profile, Convention on Biological Diversity).
Education and Community:
- Offers workshops, lectures, and guided tours for all ages (National Botanical Garden of Georgia Education).
- Hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and concerts (Agenda.ge).
Urban Ecology:
- Functions as a green lung for Tbilisi, supporting urban biodiversity, mitigating heat, and improving air quality (Georgian Journal, BirdLife International).
Tourism and Economy:
- Welcomes over 500,000 annual visitors, supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable tourism (Tbilisi City Hall, UNWTO Sustainable Tourism).
International Collaboration:
- Active partnerships with global botanical gardens and research networks (BGCI Member Profile).

Visitor Tips and FAQs

Practical Tips

Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes for hilly terrain.
Picnicking: Bring snacks or a lunch; shaded areas perfect for relaxing.
Photography: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light.
Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, avoid picking plants, and dispose of litter properly.
Event Schedules: Check the official website for updated events, workshops, and exhibitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Daily, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (spring/summer), 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (autumn/winter).

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: 4–5 GEL for adults; discounts for children, students, and families.

Q: Is the garden accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, most main paths are accessible.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Pets are not permitted to protect plant collections and wildlife.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages by prior booking.

Q: Are there special events?
A: Yes, including festivals, exhibitions, and concerts—check online for schedules.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The National Botanical Garden of Georgia stands as a living testament to the country’s botanical heritage, environmental stewardship, and cultural richness. With its accessible location, diverse plant collections, engaging attractions, and ongoing conservation efforts, the garden offers a unique and enriching experience for every visitor. Before your visit, check official ticketing and hours, and consider downloading the Audiala app for interactive maps and audio guides. Share your experiences and join the community celebrating this green oasis at the heart of Tbilisi.