Tabatskuri Lake

Tabatskuri Lake: The Volcanic Jewel of Javakheti

High on the windswept volcanic plateau of Javakheti, nestled between dramatic mountain ranges, lies the stunning Tabatskuri Lake. This is not just a body of water; it is a vast, deep blue eye staring into the sky from over 2,000 meters above sea level. Formed by ancient lava flows that dammed a river, the lake is a breathtaking example of Georgia’s geological wonders. Its shores are dotted with small villages, including Tabatskuri, inhabited by Armenian communities who have adapted to the harsh, beautiful environment, living a life intertwined with the lake’s seasonal rhythms.

The character of Tabatskuri is defined by its pristine, high-altitude environment. It is one of the deepest lakes in Georgia, with crystal-clear, cold water that freezes over for several months in winter, transforming the landscape into a vast sheet of ice. This volcanic origin gives it a unique ecosystem, making it a vital habitat for endemic fish species, including the famous Tabatskuri trout. For visitors, the journey here is an adventure in itself, traversing rough mountain roads to be rewarded with a sense of profound isolation and tranquility. The air is crisp, the views are immense, and the feeling is one of standing on the roof of Georgia, surrounded by raw, untamed nature.

Key Characteristics

Name and Location

• Official Name: Tabatskuri Lake (ტაბაწყურის ტბა).
• Location: Georgia, on the border of Samtskhe-Javakheti’s Borjomi and Akhalkalaki municipalities.
• Nearby Village: The village of Tabatskuri is located on a peninsula on the lake.
• Protected Area: Part of the Ktsia-Tabatskuri Managed Reserve.
• Coordinates: Approximately 41.60° North Latitude, 43.51° East Longitude.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Surface area is 14.2 square kilometers.
• Depth: One of Georgia’s deepest lakes, with a maximum depth of 40.2 meters.
• Elevation Above Sea Level: Approximately 1997 meters.
• Origin: Volcanic, formed by a lava dam.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Color and Clarity: Deep blue, with high transparency.

Hydrology

• Inflow/Outflow: Fed primarily by underground springs and snowmelt; has an underground outflow.
• Seasonal Changes: The lake freezes over from late December to late April.

Surrounding Environment

• Landscape: Javakheti volcanic plateau, surrounded by high mountains and subalpine meadows.
• Flora and Fauna: Rich in fish, including trout, carp, and barbel. The surrounding area is a habitat for various bird species.
• Climate: Harsh continental, with cold, long winters and short, cool summers.

Human Interaction

• Recreational Uses: Popular for fishing (requires a permit), hiking, and photography.
• Tourism: An off-the-beaten-path destination for adventure and nature lovers. Accessibility can be challenging.
• Cultural Significance: The villages around the lake represent a unique culture adapted to high-altitude life.
• Environmental Status: A protected area, crucial for biodiversity.

Visual & Experiential Details

• Scenery: Expansive deep blue water, volcanic cones on the horizon, stone houses of the village, and a vast, open sky.
• Atmosphere: A feeling of isolation, tranquility, and connection to a powerful, raw landscape.