8-Day Itinerary: Almaty, Kazakhstan & Tbilisi, Georgia for 10 People

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty

Morning: Arrive in Almaty International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Take some time to relax and acclimate to the city.

Afternoon: Explore Panfilov Park and visit the stunning Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden Russian Orthodox cathedral. Enjoy a stroll around the central city area.

Evening: Have dinner at a local Kazakh restaurant, savoring traditional dishes like beshbarmak.

Day 2: Almaty Sightseeing

Morning: Visit the impressive Medeu Skating Rink and take a cable car up to Shymbulak Ski Resort for panoramic mountain views.

Afternoon: Head to the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan’s rich history and culture. Follow this by shopping at the Zelyoniy Bazaar.

Evening: Relax with a casual dinner in the lively Arbat pedestrian street, enjoying local entertainment.

Day 3: Nature and Outdoor Activities

Morning: Take a day trip to Big Almaty Lake and enjoy hiking or photography by the scenic alpine waters.

Afternoon: Visit the nearby Kok-Tobe Hill, ride the cable car, and enjoy the panoramic views and attractions atop the hill.

Evening: Return to Almaty and enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring live Kazakh music.

Day 4: Travel to Tbilisi, Georgia

Morning: Fly from Almaty to Tbilisi (with connecting flight). Upon arrival at Tbilisi International Airport, transfer to your hotel.

Afternoon: Begin exploring with a walk through Old Tbilisi, visiting spots like the Narikala Fortress and the Abanotubani sulfur baths.

Evening: Dine on authentic Georgian cuisine with dishes like khinkali and khachapuri in the atmospheric Rustaveli Avenue area.

Day 5: Tbilisi City Tour

Morning: Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral and then explore the Georgian National Museum for deep insight into the nation's heritage.

Afternoon: Walk through the vibrant Dry Bridge Market and stroll along the scenic Kura River.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Georgian supra (feast) with local wine and folk music at a restaurant known for its authentic experiences.

Day 6: Day Trip to Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe

Morning: Travel to the ancient town of Mtskheta, visiting Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Afternoon: Explore the cave town of Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn city with fascinating historical significance.

Evening: Return to Tbilisi and have dinner at a cozy Georgian restaurant with views of the city.

Day 7: Kazbegi Day Excursion

Morning: Drive towards the Greater Caucasus Mountains, stopping at the scenic Gergeti Trinity Church in Kazbegi village.

Afternoon: Enjoy a light hike or explore the local mountain villages and landscapes. Have lunch at a local guesthouse.

Evening: Return to Tbilisi and relax with a quieter dinner after a day in the mountains.

Day 8: Departure

Morning: Last-minute shopping or visiting any favorite spots in Tbilisi. Pack and prepare for departure.

Afternoon: Transfer to Tbilisi International Airport for your flight back to India.

Evening: In-flight or arrival depending on schedule.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Almaty International Airport Arrival & Transfer - 2 hours - $200 total for group transfer
• Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral - 2 hours - Free
• Medeu Skating Rink & Shymbulak Resort - 4 hours - $25 per person
• Central State Museum - 2 hours - $3 per person
• Big Almaty Lake & Kok-Tobe Hill - 6 hours - $30 per person
• Flight Almaty to Tbilisi - 4 hours (including connection) - $200 per person
• Old Tbilisi Walking Tour - 3 hours - Free
• Georgian National Museum - 2 hours - $5 per person
• Mtskheta & Uplistsikhe Day Tour - 8 hours - $50 per person
• Kazbegi Day Excursion - 8 hours - $60 per person
• Local Meals and Dinners - 8 days - Approx. $20 per person per day
• Accommodation - 8 nights - Approx. $50 per person per night

Total estimated cost per person: Approximately $1,000 - $1,200

Tips

For a longer trip, consider adding extra days in the Kazakh mountains or exploring more of Georgia's wine regions like Kakheti. To shorten the trip, focus on key city highlights in Almaty and Tbilisi, skipping some day excursions to reduce travel time and costs.