Chreli Abano

Located in Tbilisi’s oldest district lies a quirky treasure that might just be the most relaxing way to enjoy Georgian culture. The Chreli Abano of Abanotubani as compared to a centuries-old attraction of Georgia, is new. It is where locals and tourists come to simmer their worries away in mineral-rich bubbling waters.

Legend says that King Vakhtang Gorgasali discovered these natural hot springs in the 5th century while hunting with his falcon. The story goes that when his falcon accidentally fell into the hot spring, it was instantly cooked. Then, the king declared “Tbili” (meaning “warm” in Georgian) and founded the city we now know as Tbilisi right around these waters.

These brick-domed bathhouses have welcomed everyone from regular folks to Russian poets like Pushkin and French writers like Dumas. On Georgia tour packages, these baths should definitely top your must-visit list.

Timings & Entry Fee for Chreli Abano:

1. Timings: The sulfur baths timings are from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm, daily, allowing for both early-morning detox sessions and late-night relaxation.

2. Prices:

1. Basic public bath: 3-7 GEL (₹90-210)
2. Private rooms: 30-120 GEL (₹900-3,600) per hour, depending on size and luxury level
3. Massage/scrub services: Additional 10-30 GEL (₹300-900)

Needful Tip: Most bathhouses accept cash only, so come prepared with Georgian Lari. Booking ahead is recommended