Chili Lake

Chili Lake (ჭილის ტბა) is a relatively small lake located just outside the western vicinity of Tbilisi, in the Mtskheta Municipality of the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, Georgia. Situated near the village of Mukhatgverdi (though sometimes associated with nearby Telovani village), it’s one of several lakes easily accessible from the capital, making it a popular spot for local recreation, particularly amateur fishing and picnicking. Believed to have originated from a landslide, Chili Lake occupies a depression fed mainly by atmospheric precipitation and groundwater. Unlike the high-mountain lakes of Georgia, Chili Lake sits at a moderate elevation and experiences the seasonal climate typical of the Tbilisi area. Its accessibility means it faces pressures common to peri-urban natural sites, including recreational impact and potential effects from nearby land use or development. While not large or renowned for unique ecological features like some other Georgian lakes, it serves as a valuable natural retreat and fishing spot for the residents of Tbilisi and surrounding communities.

Identification and Location

• Name: Chili Lake (ჭილის ტბა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Mtskheta-Mtianeti
  • Municipality: Mtskheta Municipality
  • Nearest Landmark: Located near Mukhatgverdi village and Telovani village, west/northwest of Tbilisi’s outskirts (like Didi Dighomi), and relatively close to the ancient capital city of Mtskheta. Often accessed via roads passing Mukhatgverdi Cemetery.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41°46′ N latitude, 44°40′ E longitude.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: Primarily an isolated basin lake, though it might have a small, possibly intermittent, outflow stream connecting to local drainage systems.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Small; specific, reliable figures for area are not widely cited but generally considered less than 1 square kilometer.
• Maximum Depth: Generally considered relatively shallow; precise maximum and average depth data are not readily available in common sources.
• Average Depth: Unknown.
• Volume: Unknown, likely small corresponding to its area and depth.
• Elevation: Moderate elevation. Sources vary, placing it between roughly 700 meters (approx. 2300 feet, consistent with Mukhatgverdi area) and up to 1130 meters (approx. 3707 feet, associated more with Telovani). The lower range seems more consistent with geographical context near Mukhatgverdi.
• Shoreline Length: Relatively short, reflecting its small size. Often characterized by grassy or reedy banks and surrounded by broadleaf forest.
• Water Source(s): Primarily atmospheric precipitation (rain, snowmelt) and groundwater. May receive inflow from small temporary streams during wet periods.
• Outlet(s): May have a small surface outlet stream or discharge via seepage/groundwater.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Often described as being formed by a landslide damming a small valley or depression.

Ecological Information

• Flora (Plant Life): Shoreline typically features grasses, reeds (Phragmites), cattails, and other wetland vegetation. Surrounded by broadleaf forest. Aquatic plants are likely present within the lake.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Known to support fish populations, making it popular for fishing. Common species may include Crucian Carp (Carassius), and potentially others adapted to warmer, possibly nutrient-rich waters. Carp fishing season often noted from late April to late August. Amphibians (frogs) and reptiles (like grass snakes) are likely present. Attracts various common bird species, though it’s not a major bird sanctuary.
• Trophic Level: Likely Mesotrophic (moderate nutrients) to Eutrophic (nutrient-rich), influenced by natural processes and potentially runoff from surrounding areas.
• Water Clarity: Variable, possibly moderate to low depending on season, rainfall, and biological activity.
• Water Temperature: Follows seasonal air temperature patterns typical for the Tbilisi area, warming significantly in summer and freezing over in colder winters (enough for people to walk on the ice sometimes).
• pH Levels & Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Specific data not readily available. Oxygen levels could fluctuate seasonally, especially if eutrophic conditions prevail or under ice cover.
• Unique Ecological Features: No major unique features widely reported; its main ecological role is as a local freshwater habitat within a forested landscape near the city.
• Conservation Status: Does not have a specific high-level conservation status like a national park or managed reserve, but falls under general environmental regulations.
• Invasive Species: Potential presence of introduced or widespread fish species is common in such accessible lakes.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: No major historical events are specifically tied to the lake, though the surrounding area near Mtskheta is historically rich. May hold local traditional significance.
• Current Uses: Widely used for recreational purposes, especially amateur fishing. Also popular for picnics, relaxation, hiking/biking in the surrounding forest, and enjoying nature close to the city. Some informal winter activities like walking on the ice occur. Not used for drinking water, irrigation, or power.
• Environmental Issues: Potential issues include littering from recreational use, possible pollution from nearby agricultural lands or development activities, eutrophication, and impacts on shoreline vegetation due to visitor pressure. Access roads can be poor, requiring off-road vehicles sometimes. Water level can fluctuate based on rainfall patterns.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed primarily at the municipal level. Efforts may focus on waste management and maintaining access. No large-scale restoration projects are widely known. Fishing might be subject to local regulations or restrictions at times.
• Local Communities: Serves as an important recreational resource for residents of Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Mukhatgverdi, Telovani, and surrounding villages. Provides a venue for local anglers and nature enthusiasts.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Believed to have been formed by a landslide.
• Its proximity to Tbilisi makes it one of the most accessible fishing and nature spots for city dwellers.
• Often mentioned alongside Lisi Lake and Turtle Lake as part of the recreational lake network around the capital.
• The surrounding area offers scenic views, sometimes including panoramas of Tbilisi and the Caucasus range from nearby higher points like Didgori Mountain.
• Freezes over in winter, offering a different kind of landscape and recreational opportunity (though walking on ice carries inherent risks).