Kakhisi Lake

Kakhisi Lake (კახისის ტბა) is a charming mountain lake situated in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of Georgia, specifically within the Borjomi Municipality. Located on the slopes of the Trialeti Range at an elevation of approximately 1752 meters (5748 feet) above sea level, it’s a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and campers, particularly those visiting the nearby resort towns of Borjomi and Bakuriani.

The lake itself is relatively small, covering an area of about 0.05 square kilometers (5 hectares), with a maximum depth reported to be around 10 meters. It is believed to have been formed by a landslide damming a small river or stream, giving it a unique origin story compared to purely glacial or volcanic lakes. Surrounded by dense coniferous and mixed forests characteristic of the Trialeti Range, Kakhisi Lake offers a serene and picturesque setting.

Fed by snowmelt, rainfall, and underground springs, the lake’s freshwater drains into a small river, likely the Kakhisistskali, which eventually joins the Mtkvari River system. It’s known among anglers for its trout population, making recreational fishing a common activity. Hiking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle tours are popular ways to reach the lake, typically starting from nearby villages like Chobiskhevi or Dabadzveli, or from Bakuriani. Due to its altitude, the lake freezes over in winter. The prime visiting season generally starts in late spring/early summer and lasts through autumn. Given the current date (April 26, 2025), Kakhisi Lake is likely just beginning to thaw or recently thawed after winter freezing. Access trails, especially at higher points or shaded areas, may still have snow patches, and dirt roads could be muddy and challenging, potentially requiring a 4×4 vehicle. Its accessibility relative to Borjomi and Bakuriani, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a favored spot for day trips and overnight camping adventures once the summer season fully begins.

Identification and Location:

• Name: Kakhisi Lake (კახისის ტბა)
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Samtskhe-Javakheti
  • Municipality: Borjomi
  • Nearest Major Landmark: Located on the Trialeti Range, relatively close to Borjomi town, Bakuriani ski resort, and villages like Chobiskhevi and Dabadzveli.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41.76∘ N latitude, 43.44∘ E longitude (approximate).
• Relationship to other bodies of water: Mountain lake; source of a small river (likely Kakhisistskali), which is a tributary within the Mtkvari River basin. Nearby (within 1km) are two smaller lakes sometimes called Chito Lake and Tsero Lake.

Physical Characteristics:

• Surface Area: ≈0.05 km2 (5 hectares or approx. 12 acres).
• Maximum Depth: $\approx 10\text{ m}$ (approx. 33 ft).
• Average Depth: Data not readily available, but likely significantly less than the maximum depth.
• Volume: Data not readily available, but relatively small given the area and depth.
• Elevation: $\approx 1752\text{ m}$ (approx. 5748 ft) above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Short, likely around 1-1.5 km. Surrounded by forest.
• Water Source(s): Snowmelt, rainfall, groundwater/springs.
• Outlet(s): Yes, a stream (likely Kakhisistskali) flows out of the lake.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Widely considered to be of landslide-dammed origin, located on the slopes of the volcanically and tectonically formed Trialeti Range.

Ecological Information:

• Flora (Plant Life): Surrounded by dense mixed forests, predominantly coniferous (spruce, fir, pine). Shoreline likely features typical forest undergrowth and moisture-loving plants. Wild berries (blackberries, raspberries) can be found nearby in summer. Some aquatic vegetation may be present in shallower parts.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Known to host Trout (making it popular for fishing). Other fish species might be present. The surrounding forests are habitat for typical fauna of the region, including deer, roe deer, foxes, potentially bears and wolves, various forest birds, and amphibians near the water.
• Trophic Level: Likely Mesotrophic, possibly leaning towards Oligotrophic, given its mountain setting and forested catchment, but specific studies are lacking.
• Water Clarity: Generally considered clear, though may vary seasonally.
• Water Temperature: Cold; freezes over in winter (typically December-March/April). Warms moderately at the surface in summer, possibly suitable for brief swimming.
• pH Levels: Data not available; likely near-neutral.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Data not available; presumably sufficient to support trout.
• Unique Ecological Features: Scenic mountain lake ecosystem embedded within a large forest massif. Important local habitat for trout.
• Conservation Status: Its proximity to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park suggests ecological significance, though it might lie just outside the main park boundaries. General conservation principles apply to the region.
• Invasive Species: No specific reports readily available.

Human Interaction and Significance:

• Historical Significance: Likely used by local populations for pasture or resources for a long time. The nearby village of Dabadzveli has historical churches. No major documented historical events specific to the lake are widely known.
• Current Uses: Primarily recreational: hiking, camping, picnicking, recreational fishing, nature tourism, horseback riding, off-road tours. It’s a popular destination accessible from Borjomi and Bakuriani. There’s often a small seasonal campsite area with basic facilities (cabins, cafe) operating in summer.
• Environmental Issues: Potential impacts from increased tourism, including waste accumulation, campfire risks, trail erosion, and disturbance to wildlife. Risk of illegal fishing or logging in the wider area needs management attention.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Management may fall under the Agency of Protected Areas if within park boundaries or buffer zones, or under the local municipality/forestry service. Regulations regarding fishing (licenses, seasons) and camping (fire rules) may apply.
• Local Communities: Provides opportunities for tourism-related income (guides, transport, guesthouses, food, local products) for nearby villages like Chobiskhevi and Dabadzveli. Dabadzveli is known as a “summer village” where locals move seasonally.

Interesting or Unique Facts:

• Widely believed to have been formed by a natural landslide damming a waterway.
• Known for its beautiful setting completely surrounded by forest.
• A popular spot for trout fishing.
• Accessible via hiking trails, horseback, or 4×4 vehicles from several directions.
• Freezes over completely during the winter months.
• Located near two other small lakes, Chito and Tsero.