The Lekhura River

The Lekhura River: An Agricultural Artery in Shida Kartli

The Lekhura River (მდინარე ლეხურა) is a significant river in the Shida Kartli region of central Georgia, flowing through the Gori and Kaspi municipalities. Originating on the eastern slopes of the Likhi Range, it is a left tributary of the Mtkvari River. The Lekhura is a crucial lifeline for the agriculture of the Shida Kartli plain, one of Georgia’s most important fruit-growing and farming regions. Its waters are extensively used for irrigation, feeding a network of canals that sustain the famous apple orchards and grain fields of the area.

The river flows through a densely populated and historically rich landscape. It passes numerous villages and the important road that connects the main East-West highway to the city of Tskhinvali. The Lekhura valley is dotted with historical monuments, including medieval churches and the ruins of ancient fortresses, which speak to the region’s long history as a core part of the Kingdom of Kartli-Iberia. It is a working river, central to the economy and daily life of this ancient Georgian land.

ℹ️ General Information

• Name of River: Lekhura River (მდინარე ლეხურა)
• Location: Gori and Kaspi municipalities, Shida Kartli, Georgia.
• Length: 43 km (27 miles)
• Basin Size: 285 km² (110 sq mi)
• Source (Origin): Eastern slope of the Likhi Range.
• Mouth (Where it flows): Left tributary of the Mtkvari River.
• Main Tributaries: Small mountain streams.

📍 Geography & Course

The Lekhura begins in the forested foothills of the Likhi Range and flows eastward. Upon entering the Shida Kartli plain, its valley widens, and its flow becomes slow and meandering. The river’s course has been heavily modified by the construction of irrigation canals, which divert much of its water during the summer months.

🌿 Nature & Ecology

While the upper reaches of the valley are forested, the lower part is a predominantly agricultural landscape. The river corridor itself provides an important habitat for local wildlife, especially birds, acting as a green artery through the cultivated fields. The health of the river is vital for the sustainability of the region’s entire agroecosystem.

🏛️ History & Culture

The Lekhura valley is rich in history and is located near some of Georgia’s most significant sites.

• Ancient Heartland: The region is the historical core of Georgia (Kartli) and is filled with archaeological sites from the Bronze Age onwards.
• Nearby Monuments: It is located a short drive from major historical centers like Gori (with the Uplistsikhe cave city nearby) and Kaspi, with numerous small village churches in its own valley.

🚣 Activities & Tourism

• Cultural & Historical Tours: The area is a key destination for tours exploring the rich history of Shida Kartli.
• Agrotourism: The valley offers opportunities to experience Georgian agricultural life, especially during the fruit harvesting season.

🛤️ Accessibility

The Lekhura valley is highly accessible. The main road connecting Gori to the north runs parallel to it, and it is crossed by numerous local roads. The entire region is well-connected and easy to explore by car from Tbilisi.