In Tbilisi’s historic Abanotubani district, the Chreli Abano, commonly known as the Sulfur Baths is a must-visit for spa and massage lovers. It offers warm, mineral-rich waters for relaxation, and you experience centuries of Georgian culture.
Overview of 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.
What are the Key Highlights of Chreli Abano?
- Private Bath Experience: Book your own private room complete with hot sulfur pool, cold plunge pool, and relaxation area – perfect for families or friends.
- Traditional Kisa Treatment: A bath attendant will exfoliate you with a special mitt until you’re as smooth as a baby’s bottom. Not for the shy or ticklish.
- Architectural beauty: Gaze at the distinctive brick domes peeking above ground while the actual baths remain mysteriously hidden below – these Persian-inspired structures are architectural icons of Old Tbilisi.
Timings & Entry Fee for Chreli Abano:
1. Timings: The sulfur baths timings are from 8:00 am to midnight, daily, allowing for both early-morning detox sessions and late-night relaxation.
2. Prices:
- Basic public bath: 3-7 GEL (₹90-210)
- Private rooms: 30-120 GEL (₹900-3,600) per hour depending on size and luxury level
- 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
Travel Tips & Essential Information for Chreli Abano:
- Bring Your Own Supplies: Pack flip-flops, towels, and toiletries unless you want to pay extra for rentals.
- Hydration: The hot water will make you sweat buckets. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your bath unless you fancy experiencing Georgian healthcare facilities as well.
- Modesty Matters: Public baths are usually gender-segregated. If that makes you uncomfortable, private rooms are also available. Some places provide disposable underwear that somehow manages to be both too big and too small simultaneously.
- How to Reach: Located in Old Tbilisi, the Abanotubani district is easily reachable on foot from Freedom Square or by taxi from anywhere in the city.
- Timing Your Visit: Morning visits mean fewer crowds and fresher facilities. Weekdays are less busy than weekends when locals join the soaking party.
- Language Barrier: Attendants typically speak limited English, so brush up on basic Georgian phrases.
- Post-Bath Activities: Give yourself time to enjoy the relaxed, slightly wobbly feeling afterward. The streets of Old Tbilisi around the baths are perfect for gentle exploration while your muscles thank you.
