Georgia souvenirs; What to buy, where to buy?!

Georgia souvenirs mean a cultural experience that takes you to the heart of the life of the people of this land. When visiting the sights of Georgia, especially the local markets of Georgia, it is as if you are traveling to the depths of history, tradition and unique flavors.

Georgian souvenirs are very diverse and include delicious foods such as chorchkhla, khinkali socks, traditional dishes and special handicrafts. By buying Georgian souvenirs, you will not only have a lasting memory of your trip, but you will also take home a part of Georgian culture so that you will never forget your trip.

From local wool hats to Georgian cheeses, each one tells us a story of this beautiful land. In this article, stay with Alibaba Tourism Magazine to tell you which are the best souvenirs of Georgia.

Famous souvenirs of Georgia

When many people decide to travel, the first thing they plan for their itinerary is to visit the sights of Georgia and shop in Georgia. But the fact is that trying the new taste of Georgian cuisine is an inseparable part of the trip. Georgian food is known for its spicy flavor.

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In famous Georgian dishes, cheese, garlic, fresh vegetables, especially coriander, and special Georgian spices such as blue fenugreek and Swaniani salt are used a lot. For example, Solgoni cheese, which is one of the best souvenirs of Georgia, stands out with its spicy and salty taste and strong aroma.

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Here are some examples of the best foods that you can give as souvenirs of Georgia:

– Churchakhla

Churchkhla is one of the best souvenirs of Georgia and one of the traditional Georgian foods, which is made with natural ingredients and without additives and preservatives. Another name for Churchkhla is “Georgian candy”. The main ingredients of Churchkhla include the thick and sweet juice of various fruits and nuts, especially walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts.

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The method of making chorchakhla is that they add wheat flour or corn flour to the juice of the fruits to make a jelly-like substance called tatara and add some flavoring like cinnamon or vanilla to it. Then the nuts are pulled into a thread using a needle, then the thread of the nuts is dipped in the sap and hung to dry.

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Chorchakhla has a pleasant combination of the natural sweetness of fruit juice and the taste of nuts. The taste of Chorchakhla, one of the best souvenirs of Georgia, depends on the raw materials and the type of juice used. Grape juice has a mild, fruity taste, while pomegranate juice has a mellow taste.

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According to the juice that is used, Churchakhla varies in yellow, orange, green, light brown, red and purple colors. The smell of this food is a combination of the aroma of grape juice or juice of other fruits and nuts, and it has a natural and good smell. By tasting Churchkhla, tourists experience a traditional and authentic taste of Georgia, which is different from industrial sweets.

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This food is light in weight and can be easily packed in a suitcase or bag. Under normal conditions and for short-term transportation in the luggage, there is no problem, but if the weather is very hot, the juices may melt a little and become sticky. In general, chorchakhla has a good shelf life due to the dryness of its juice and raw materials, and if it is stored in a cool and dry place, it can be used for several weeks without refrigeration.

– Georgian cheese

Georgian cheese is one of the most famous souvenirs of Georgia, which attracts the attention of tourists due to its special taste, great variety and its important role in the local cuisine of Georgia. There are different types of Georgian cheeses. The most famous Georgian cheese is Suluguni, which has a semi-hard texture, a mild aroma, and a salty taste.

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Georgian Sologoni cheese is white in color and is served fried or grilled with traditional Georgian dishes such as khachapuri. This cheese is made from smoked buffalo, sheep or goat milk, and the longer it stays in salt water, the harder it becomes and the stronger the taste.

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Some other examples of Georgian cheeses are:

Imeruli cheese, which is a fresh and soft cheese with a mild and slightly sour taste, is used in the preparation of Georgian dishes such as Imerti Khachapuri. Smoked Gouda cheese, which has a semi-hard texture and a smoky taste and special aroma; Kakheti Cheese, produced in the Kakheti region, has a spicy taste. This Georgian cheese is often a favorite of those who love strong flavors.

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The price of Georgian cheese varies depending on its type, weight and quality. For example, 1 kilo of Sologuni cheese is sold for approximately 25 Georgian lari in local markets. Of course, the higher the quality of the cheese, the higher the price. More special or smoked cheeses are slightly more expensive.

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Georgian cheese, especially semi-hard and smoked types, can be transported by plane to Tehran or other cities. Usually, these cheeses have a long expiration date and do not spoil at normal temperatures. It is better to buy Georgian cheese, which is one of the most delicious souvenirs of Georgia, in special vacuum packaging.

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It’s good to know that fresher cheeses like Imroli need to be kept in the refrigerator. So it’s better to try this cheese on your trip to Georgia and take cheeses that have a longer expiration date and don’t need to be kept in the refrigerator as souvenirs of Georgia. Georgian cheese introduces you to the special flavors of the Caucasus region, and besides being one of the most delicious souvenirs of Georgia, it is an opportunity to share the food culture of Georgia.

– Spice

Spices are one of the most popular souvenirs of Georgia that you can easily carry in your luggage. Buying special Georgian spices does not cost much, and it is a great choice because of its light weight and small space. By buying spices as a souvenir of Georgia, you can take the taste and aroma of Georgian cuisine home with you.

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The most famous Georgian spices are: Khmeli Suneli, which is a combination of coriander, parsley, dill, local saffron and salt, and is used for meat dishes and soups. Svanetian salt seasoning, which is a combination of sea salt and aromatic spices such as dried garlic, blue fenugreek and local spices, has a strong and salty taste. Georgian saffron, which is a type of native saffron, is mostly used for coloring and has a mild aroma.

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In general, cilantro and dry fenugreek are the main ingredients in Georgian cuisine, which give a warm taste to the food. Also, dry bay leaf, cumin, summer savory, barberry, marigold, blue fenugreek seed and coriander seed are other Georgian spices that travelers take home as souvenirs of Georgia. Of course, it is better to know that Georgians have a special combination of different spices for local dishes that you can prepare in combination. More special spices like “Swan spice” or “Georgian saffron” usually have a high price.

– Local jams

Local jams are one of the most popular souvenirs of Georgia, which attract the attention of many tourists because of their unique flavors, attractive colors and pleasant aroma. These jams are prepared using fresh and often organic fruits and have a natural and aromatic taste.

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Georgian jams have a wide variety and are prepared from special local fruits. Some of the most popular types of Georgian local jams are walnut jam, raspberry jam, cranberry jam, apricot jam, fig jam, persimmon jam, and cherry jam. The combination of Georgian jam with local breads has a unique taste.

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The price of Georgian jams varies depending on the type of fruit, packaging, weight and quality. Georgian jams can be easily transported to Tehran or other cities. These products are usually packed in strong and resistant jars that are easy to carry in a suitcase.

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You do not need a refrigerator to store Georgian jam. As long as they are kept in a dry and cool place and the glass is not opened. After opening the lid of the jar, it is better to store it in the refrigerator so that it lasts longer.

Other souvenirs of Georgia

If you would like to buy souvenirs for yourself or your loved ones during your trip to Georgia, buying handicrafts is the best choice. Handicrafts represent the culture and traditions of the people of the destination country, and since they can be kept for many years, they are considered the best gift as souvenirs of Georgia.

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Some examples of the best souvenirs of Georgia are as follows:

– Countess

Kantsi is a traditional Georgian cup made from animal horns, usually cow or goat horns. These cups are part of the traditional Georgian party culture called Sopra. Kantsi is a natural horn, and usually the natural colors of the horn, such as cream, brown or black, are prominent in them. Some of them are decorated with traditional Georgian motifs, engravings or beautiful metal decorations.

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Kantsi is a cultural symbol and is bought as a souvenir of Georgia. Of course, animal lovers and environmentalists are against buying this type of souvenir, because it is made from natural animal horns.

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The size and weight of Kantsi is suitable and fits easily in the luggage. The price of Kantsi varies depending on its size, type and decorations. Silver and turquoise stones are used in the decorations of some kantsi, which have a higher price compared to the simple model.

– Georgian dagger

The Georgian dagger is another souvenir of Georgia that attracts the attention of tourists. Khanjali is a type of dagger that is very similar to the Persian machete. This Georgian souvenir has a long history. In the past, Georgian daggers were used everywhere in the Caucasus as cold weapons. The dagger is similar to the ancient Roman gladius sword and the Scottish dagger.

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The price of this souvenir depends on its material, size and engravings. Because the Georgian dagger is handmade and gold or silver is used in some of them, it has a high price. You may not be allowed to carry a dagger in your luggage, so you should check the rules of the airline and airport to be sure.

– Georgian silver and jewelry

Georgian silver jewelry is famous for its unique designs and high quality and is one of the most valuable souvenirs of Georgia. These ornaments are usually made of pure silver or a combination of silver and alloy. The designs are usually a combination of traditional and modern Georgian designs, and in some of them precious stones are used and in others non-original stones are used.

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Buying silver from Georgia can be an exquisite and lasting souvenir for your loved ones. Jewelry is easily portable and you won’t have any problems on the flight. The price of this Georgian souvenir varies, and if you choose silver jewelry, it is determined according to its weight.

– Carpets and rugs

Georgian carpet and rug “Pardagi” is one of the important handicrafts of this country, which has had a special place in the culture and life of Georgian people since ancient times. These carpets are woven from natural wool of Georgian sheep and high quality threads. The colors of Georgian carpets and rugs are varied and they are woven with geometric designs, pomegranates, animals and ethnic symbols of Georgia.

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Georgian carpets and rugs are usually bought in small sizes and for decoration as souvenirs of Georgia. The price of this Georgian souvenir varies depending on its quality, size and design. Because these carpets are hand-woven, they have a higher price. Due to their lightness, small carpets and rugs can be carried in luggage and do not cause any problems during air travel.

– Pebble stone

Another Georgia souvenir that you can buy as a keepsake is the Georgian Shabq stone (or Caucasus Shabq). This stone is mined in the Caucasus region and is known for its black color and special luster. “Jet” stone is used in making ornaments and handicrafts and has transcendental properties.

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This natural stone has been formed over many years from rotten wood that has been under extreme pressure. If you are looking for a special and long-lasting souvenir, buying jewelry made of Caucasian stone is a great choice.

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In terms of transportation, this stone is easily portable, because it has a small size and you can put it in a handbag. The price of Georgian stone depends on its quality and size. Of course, the place where you go to buy Georgian souvenirs has an effect on its price. Prices are usually higher in large shopping centers. It is better to go to the local markets of Georgia to buy souvenirs so that you can get a little discount by bargaining.

– Woolen hats

Caucasian woolen hats, which are one of the most famous souvenirs of Georgia, have two types. One of them, called papakha, is a hat with long fur, usually made of karakul sheepskin. The hat is cylindrical and covers the temples and forehead.

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Another model of Georgian Kubanka hats is called “kubanka”. This hat is similar to papakha, but the fur is short and made of camel hair. Woolen hats are one of the cultural and traditional symbols of the Caucasus region and Georgia and are considered one of the most special souvenirs of Georgia. These hats fit in a suitcase and hand bag and do not cause any problem to carry, but they are a little bulky.

– Traditional tablecloths

Another souvenir of Georgia is traditional tablecloths. Georgian tablecloths are light and take up very little space. It is a good choice for travelers who have a lot of luggage and want to buy a lot of souvenirs. These tablecloths are often made from high-quality fabrics such as linen or velvet and are decorated with authentic Georgian designs and patterns, including pomegranate shapes, flower bushes, traditional Georgian symbols and even Georgian landmarks.

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Georgian tablecloths are available in Georgian markets in different sizes and types, from small for coffee tables to large for dining tables. In addition to decorative use at home, these tablecloths are a valuable and lasting gift. The price of tablecloths usually varies according to the size, material and type of design and ranges from 20 to 150 lari. Of course, some tablecloths that are handmade and embroidered by hand have a higher price.

– Scarf and woolen socks

Traditional Georgian woolen scarves and socks are popular souvenirs and represent the culture and handicrafts of the people of this region. These products are mainly made from natural sheep or goat wool and are soft, warm and durable. In addition to keeping warm, Georgian scarves are also used in traditional ceremonies and celebrations in Georgia.

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Handmade woolen socks can also be a good choice to give as souvenirs of Georgia. Georgian woolen scarves and socks are reasonably priced and do not take up much space in your luggage due to their lightness and compactness, and are a good choice for Georgian souvenirs.

– Khinkali socks

Georgian Khinkali sock is one of the interesting and creative souvenirs of this country, which is inspired by the famous Georgian traditional food, Khinkali. These socks are usually made of cotton yarn or a combination of cotton and polyester, which are soft and comfortable. Of course, Khinkali woolen socks are a good choice for autumn and winter.

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Khinkali socks are leggy and come in a variety of colors. But these socks are decorated with the image of khinkali, which is one of the most famous dishes in Georgia. These images are printed or woven on socks and are suitable for everyday use or gifting, as they are light and small and have a reasonable price.

– Brass and copper dishes

Buying brass and copper dishes, if they are small in size, will not cause any problems. But if you want to buy in large quantities or in large sizes, you may have trouble carrying these containers and you may have to pay extra. Brass and copper dishes are among the most popular souvenirs of Georgia due to their traditional designs and high quality.

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These containers include glasses, pitchers, teapots, cups, trays, vases, decorative plates and things like that. Dishes that have hand engravings usually have a high price. The price of brass and copper dishes depends on the size, design and quality of its construction.

Where to buy Georgian souvenirs?

With its traditional markets and luxury shopping centers, Georgia is a wonderful opportunity to explore and buy various souvenirs. The 10 best places to buy Georgian souvenirs in Tbilisi are as follows:

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• Dry Bridge Market: known as the market of peddlers and antique sellers.
• Tbilisi Mall: the first and largest modern shopping center in Georgia.
• Galleria Tbilisi shopping center: in the city center with luxury brands and various restaurants.
• Fabrika Design Market: a creative place with art and handmade products.
• Samgori Market: to buy agricultural products and local foods.

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• East Point Mall: a modern complex with shops, cinema and entertainment.
• Tbilisi Central Bazaar: suitable for buying Georgian spices, Georgian cheese, jam, tea and local products.
• Lagidze Market: To buy traditional drinks, bread and local sweets.
• Rustaveli Avenue: full of attractive shops and galleries.
• Karvasla shopping center: a modern market with a focus on traditional Georgian handicrafts and souvenirs.

Alibaba recommendations for buying Georgian souvenirs

• It is better to choose small and small souvenirs such as spices, shawls, socks, or Georgian table cloths to carry more easily and not have excess baggage on the flight.
• When buying local foods such as chorchakhla, jam or Georgian cheese, taste it and pay attention to their expiration date.
• Shop at local markets, as prices are more reasonable than luxury malls and you can haggle.
• Shop local Georgia souvenir shops and booths to support local artists and producers.
• Specialized markets are the best place to buy special products such as copper dishes, carpets or jewelry.
• If you buy valuable items, get an invoice to be sure of the product’s authenticity.
• Buy jewelry or handwoven rugs from reputable stores.