Gldani Lake (White Lake)

Gldani Lake: The Urban Fishing Oasis of Tbilisi

Gldani Lake, also known locally as the “White Lake” (Tetri Tba), is a small but well-known body of water located near the large residential district of Gldani in Tbilisi. While not a pristine natural wonder, it serves as an important and highly accessible urban recreational spot, especially for local fishing enthusiasts. The lake was artificially created and has been managed for decades as a fishing ground, stocked with species like carp, grass carp, and silver carp. Its shores are simple and largely undeveloped, offering a raw, urban-fringe nature experience. For the residents of the northern districts of Tbilisi, Gldani Lake is a convenient place to cast a line, have a picnic, or simply escape the concrete jungle for a few hours without leaving the city. It represents a different kind of lake experience—one that is deeply integrated into the daily life of the capital.

Identification and Location

• Name: Gldani Lake (გლდანის ტბა); also White Lake (თეთრი ტბა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Tbilisi
  • District: Gldani
• Nearest Major Landmark/Area: Located near the Gldani residential massif.
• Coordinates: Approximately 41.8050° N, 44.8250° E.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Small, approximately 0.15 square kilometers.
• Maximum Depth: Shallow, around 2-3 meters.
• Elevation Above Sea Level: Approximately 520 meters.
• Water Source(s): Artificially supplied by a canal.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Geology of Basin: Artificial basin.

Ecological Information

• Flora: Surrounded by fields and some scrubland. Reed beds line parts of the shore.
• Fauna: Heavily stocked with fish for recreational angling, including large specimens of carp and grass carp.
• Water Clarity: Typically low due to its shallow, muddy bottom and nutrient levels.
• Conservation Status: Managed as a private fishing lake.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Current Use: A very popular destination for local amateur fishing. Fishing is usually paid.
• Environmental Issues: Water quality and littering from visitors can be issues.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed by a private entity that regulates fishing and stocks the lake.
• Local Communities: A key recreational asset for the large population of the Gldani district.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Despite its official name, many locals know it as the “White Lake”.
• It is one of the most popular and accessible places for carp fishing within the Tbilisi city limits.