Tbilisi City Guide

Nestled in the Tsavkisis-Tskali Gorge on the southern foothills of the Sololaki Range, the National Botanical Garden of Georgia offers a peaceful retreat from the city's vibrant pace. Formerly known as the Tbilisi Botanical Garden, it has a history that spans over three centuries. The garden was first mentioned in 1671 by the French traveler Jean Chardin, who described it as the "royal gardens." Historical accounts suggest that these gardens might have been established as early as 1625, and throughout history, they were also known as "fortress gardens" or "Seidabad gardens."
The garden was revitalized in the early 19th century and officially recognized as the Tiflis Botanical Garden in 1845. Today, it covers an impressive 97 hectares, of which around 40 hectares are devoted to plantings, roads, and buildings, while the remaining 58 hectares preserve natural vegetation.
With approximately 3,500 species, subspecies, and cultivars, the garden showcases an impressive array of plant diversity. The local flora is especially rich, featuring about 800 species of higher plants. This makes the Botanical Garden a haven for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The garden also offers a scenic experience with walking paths, bridges, and waterfalls. It provides visitors a tranquil environment to explore Georgia's botanical heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while learning about the region's rich biodiversity.