Khalde

The village Khalde is located in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, Mestia municipality, a community of Kala, to the south of Chkhutneri ridge, in Khaldechala valley, 1900m above sea level.

How to get to Khalde?

To get to Khalde you will need to get to Mestia by private car or public transport. There are flights from Kutaisi to Mestia and from Tbilisi to Mestia as well. It is 40 km from Mestia to village Khalde. You will need an off-road vehicle to go through it. It is also possible to hire a taxi in the center of Mestia.

Infrastructure

Khalde is quite a small, mountainous village. It does not have a proper infrastructure,however, you can find a guesthouse and a restauran there, where it is possible to stay at night and enjoy delicious meals.

Local and foreign tourists often visit the village. Hikes are usually set up to the Khalde Glacier, which is located 6 km far from the village. It is also possible to take the Khalde-Ushguli route.

History

The village Khalde was an initiator during the rebellion against the Russian Empire. The villagers fought till death during the revolt, that is why the village, with its towers, was completely destroyed. After Khalde became empty, the Russian government prohibited to inhabit Khalde, and named it "New Iphrari". Svans mention the heroes of Khalde with great respect. There is a remarkable song written about them called "Gaul-Gavkhe".