The road to Tskhratskaro Pass is not for the faint of heart

Tskhratskaro Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.471m (8,106ft) above the sea level, located in the Samtskhe–Javakheti region, in southern Georgia.

Tskhratskaro Pass

Located in the Trialeti mountain range, the road to the summit is called M-20. It links the towns of Bakuriani and Ghado. It’s a rough winding road very steep. Open to all motorized vehicles, however, strongly recommended for 4-wheel drive vehicles. At the summit there’s a police control, in the middle of nowhere.
The pass sits within the Ktsia-Tabatskuri Managed Reserve. Do not travel this road in severe weather conditions. Avalanches, heavy snowfalls and landslides can occur anytime, being extremely dangerous due to frequent patches of ice. At first is passable, but as it goes on is getting more difficult. The surface on this gravel road is often loose, especially along the sides of the road. You should have enough fuel and food. There are no petrol stations and shops available. This road tests the skill, and courage, of any driver. It’s definitely not for anyone suffering from vertigo or a fear of landslides.

The journey offers superb views. It’s definitely worth it. A drive not to be missed! The scenery is really beautiful, but our eyes cannot get off the road. Don't forget your camera with lots of film/memory, fully charged batteries and an empty memory card! The pass offers sweeping views of the Borjomi - Bakuriani landscape and breathtaking views of the Greater Caucasus including the peaks of Mount Elbrus and the Tabatskuri Lake.
Pic: Нариман Федосов