Bochorna is a high-altitude mountain settlement in Georgia’s historic Tusheti region, located at 2,345 meters above sea level and known as Europe’s highest inhabited settlement.
Surrounded by the mountains of the Greater Caucasus, the village is distinguished not only by its elevation but also by its history, traditional architecture and remote natural environment.
Where is Bochorna located?
The village is located in Tusheti, in the municipality of Akhmeta, in Georgia’s Kakheti region. It is situated approximately 12 kilometers from Omalo, the main settlement and tourism center of Tusheti.
The remote location and difficult access have helped preserve the traditional character of the area, making Tusheti one of Georgia’s distinctive mountain destinations.
For more information about destinations and travel opportunities across the country, see our guide to Tourism in Georgia – Destinations, Attractions and a Complete Travel Guide.
The History of the Village
Bochorna has a long history as a mountain settlement. According to historical records, around 25 families lived in the village in the 1950s.
Like many other settlements in Tusheti, the village experienced significant depopulation during the Soviet period. By the 1980s, it had been abandoned.
Permanent life returned in 2014, when doctor Irakli Khvedaguridze became one of the best-known permanent residents of the area. His presence helped draw attention to the settlement and to the challenges of maintaining life in remote mountain communities.
Bochorna and Ushguli
Bochorna and Ushguli are both among Georgia’s most remarkable high-altitude settlements, but they are located in different regions of the country.
The Tusheti settlement stands at approximately 2,345 meters above sea level, while Ushguli is located in Svaneti at an elevation of roughly 2,050-2,200 meters.
For many years, Ushguli was considered the highest inhabited settlement in Europe. Today, Bochorna is generally identified as Europe’s highest inhabited settlement.
Travel News has previously covered Ushguli and the highest inhabited settlements in Georgia in more detail.
Ushguli is particularly famous for its medieval Svan towers and traditional architecture. The village of Chazhashi, part of the Ushguli community, is included within the UNESCO World Heritage property of Upper Svaneti.
The settlement in Tusheti offers a different mountain experience, shaped by the distinctive landscape and cultural traditions of the region.
Life in One of Georgia’s Most Remote Villages
Life in this part of Tusheti is closely connected to the natural environment and the seasonal character of the region.
In 2024, a 15-kilowatt solar power station was installed in the village with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the GEF Small Grants Programme. The project provided an important renewable energy solution for the remote settlement.
More information about the project is available in the UNDP Georgia report on solar power in Tusheti.
Tusheti itself has become increasingly popular among travelers interested in hiking, mountain landscapes, traditional villages and cultural tourism.
Why Visit Bochorna?
The village is particularly interesting for travelers looking for destinations beyond Georgia’s major tourist routes.
A trip to this remote part of Tusheti offers the opportunity to experience:
- high-mountain landscapes of Tusheti;
- traditional Tushetian architecture;
- remote mountain settlements;
- the culture and history of the region;
- spectacular views of the Greater Caucasus.
The journey to Tusheti is also part of the experience. The region is known for its remote roads, dramatic mountain scenery and seasonal accessibility.
For travelers planning a trip to Georgia, Tusheti represents one of the country’s distinctive high-mountain destinations.
A Unique Destination in Georgia
The settlement is more than a high-altitude village. Its history, location and connection with Tusheti’s traditional way of life make it an important part of Georgia’s mountain tourism landscape.
At 2,345 meters above sea level, it offers travelers a chance to discover one of the most remote and distinctive corners of Georgia while experiencing the natural and cultural heritage of Tusheti.
The destination is also part of the broader story of tourism in Georgia, where mountain destinations, cultural heritage and nature-based tourism play an important role.
For travelers interested in high-mountain destinations, Bochorna offers a rare combination of altitude, history, traditional architecture and untouched landscapes.
Conclusion
Bochorna is one of Georgia’s most distinctive mountain settlements. Located at 2,345 meters above sea level, it is known as Europe’s highest inhabited settlement and represents an important part of Tusheti’s cultural and natural heritage.
Its history, remote location and unique mountain landscape make it an especially interesting destination for travelers who want to discover a different side of Georgia.
Travel News will continue to cover Georgia’s regions, destinations and the development of tourism across the country.
