Telavi,a country town with a population of around 28,000 is the capital of Kakheti, the main wine growing region of Georgia. There are two good reasons for visiting this area, the old churches in the pleasant and green countryside, and the wine. The Kakhetians are known for their conviviality and rare is the visitor who can stay sober for long.

The main sight in the town centre is the palace of Herekle built in the 18th century. Its grounds now house a history museum, art gallery, the royal church of Herekle and the remains of a basilica.

Outside Telavi on can find many historic churches dating from the 6th – 17th centuries, including the Ikalto monastery, The cathedral of Alaverdi, the Shaumta monastery and the Gremi architectural complex. The house and gardens of Prince Chavchavadze, a famous 19th century poet at Tsinandali are not to be missed. Visits to the adjoining winery as well as wine tasting in other vineyards can also be arranged.

South of Telavi lies the David Gareja Desert, a wild and remote spot with rare plants and animals. Here, one can also find the David Gareja Monastery, said to be the holiest spot in Georgia. A world famous school of fresco painting thrived here and many of the surviving frescos date back to the 9th century.