Kotatba Lake

Kotatba Lake: The Solitary Tarn of the Trialeti Range

Kotatba Lake is a small, remote alpine tarn hidden high in the sprawling Trialeti Mountain Range, a destination for true adventurers seeking solitude. This pristine body of water, likely of glacial origin, is nestled in a landscape of rolling subalpine meadows, far from any settlements or major roads. Its beauty lies not in its size, but in its profound isolation and untouched nature. Reaching Kotatba requires a dedicated hike or an off-road vehicle, a journey that takes you deep into the pastoral highlands of Kvemo Kartli. The lake’s clear, cold waters reflect the vast, open sky and the surrounding green slopes, often grazed by shepherds’ flocks in the summer. It’s a place for wild camping and quiet contemplation, offering a powerful sense of being alone with the raw beauty of the Lesser Caucasus.

Identification and Location

• Name: Kotatba Lake (კოტატბა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Kvemo Kartli
  • Municipality: Tsalka
• Nearest Major Landmark/Area: Located in the central part of the Trialeti Range.
• Coordinates: Approximately 41.6550° N, 44.1833° E.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: A very small alpine tarn.
• Elevation Above Sea Level: High, approximately 2250 meters.
• Water Source(s): Snowmelt and underground springs.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Geology of Basin: Glacial cirque or nival depression.

Ecological Information

• Flora: Surrounded by high-altitude alpine and subalpine meadows.
• Fauna: The cold, nutrient-poor water is unlikely to support a significant fish population. The area is a habitat for mountain birds and is used for grazing.
• Conservation Status: Unprotected natural feature, preserved by its remoteness.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Current Use: A destination for experienced hikers, off-road enthusiasts, and wild campers.
• Environmental Issues: Minimal due to very low visitor numbers.
• Local Communities: The area is part of traditional summer pasture lands for local shepherds.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• It is a classic example of a high-altitude tarn, offering a pure mountain wilderness experience.
• The trek to the lake provides panoramic views across the vast, rolling landscapes of the Trialeti Range.