Tanghili church

A perfect combination of trekking and culture-heritage. Tanghili is decorated with lovely frescoes while the trail goes up a forest-covered hill with glimpses of Ushba.

This wonderful little hike takes about half a day to do and it is a good option for cloudy weather because even though the views are important and you get to see Ushba from a very unusual perspective when the sky is clear, still the main treat is the church itself. A tiny 12th century building with absolutely adorable frescoes that stands hidden away from tourist trails in a thick forest. Make sure you bring a torch with you to look at the wall paintings. We marked the trail “easy” and it really is not difficult, but it goes uphill all the way and walking sticks will be very helpful.  The trail starts in village Lakhushdi, goes through meadows and then through mixed forest. The path is clear and leads straight to the church, which is always open. There are some wooden huts and a picnic area near the church, but no water, so make sure you have enough with you.

The driver will pick you up in Lakhushdi where he dropped you off. He will also arrange for you to see Lakhushdi’s church of the Saviour, if you like. The church building is newly restored, but inside you will see a magnificent collection of medieval silverware.

This route is also possible to do on horseback, see HORSE-RIDING section.

BLUE: the walking trail from Lakhushdi to Tanghili.

YELLOW: the part you do from Mestia by car.

Photographs in order of the trail