Patara Okrostsklis Tba

Patara Okrostsklis Tba (პატარა ოქროსწყლის ტბა), meaning “Little Golden Water Lake,” is a remote high-altitude lake located in the Upper Svaneti region (Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti) of Georgia. It forms part of the Okrostskali Lakes system, situated pair-like with its larger counterpart, Didi Okrostsklis Tba (“Big Golden Water Lake”), within the rugged Khojali Range mountains. This area lies close to the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL) with Abkhazia, Georgia, adding to its remoteness and the complexities of visiting.

The lake itself is likely small, typical of glacial lakes found at high elevations, probably exceeding 2700 meters (approx. 8850 feet). It is fed by snowmelt, precipitation, and potentially glacial meltwater. Sources describe its water as having a deep, somewhat mysterious colour, contrasting with the turquoise hue often attributed to the larger Okrostskali lake. Surrounded by stark alpine terrain – meadows, rocks, and possibly snowfields or small glaciers – Patara Okrostsklis Tba offers dramatic, wild scenery.

Accessing this lake is an extremely challenging endeavor, suitable only for very experienced mountaineers and trekkers undertaking demanding, multi-day expeditions. Routes often start from remote areas like Khaishi and involve crossing difficult passes (potentially near 2900m), navigating steep slopes, potentially unmarked terrain, and dealing with significant remoteness. The trek often includes visiting both Okrostskali lakes. Due to the high altitude and heavy snowfall in the region, the lake is accessible only for a very short summer window, likely late July through early September. Given the current date (April 26, 2025), Patara Okrostsklis Tba and the surrounding high mountain terrain are completely inaccessible due to deep snow. Its primary significance lies in its pristine wilderness setting, its place within a unique pair of contrasting alpine lakes, and the challenge it presents to adventurous trekkers near a sensitive administrative boundary.

Identification and Location:

• Name: Patara Okrostsklis Tba (პატარა ოქროსწყლის ტბა); Small Okrostskali Lake.
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti (Upper Svaneti)
  • Municipality: Likely Mestia
  • Nearest Major Landmark: Part of the Okrostskali Lakes system, located near Didi Okrostsklis Tba in the Khojali Range mountains. Close to the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL) with Abkhazia, Georgia. Very remote.
  • Coordinates: Precise coordinates not readily available, but situated in the high mountains of western Upper Svaneti near the ABL (perhaps vicinity of 42.9° N, 42.2° E).
• Relationship to other bodies of water: The smaller of the two main Okrostskali Lakes. Fed by snowmelt/precipitation/glaciers. Likely connected via a stream to Didi Okrostsklis Tba or contributes to the headwaters of the Okrostskali River system, ultimately flowing towards the Enguri River.

Physical Characteristics:

• Surface Area: Data not available; described as small.
• Maximum Depth: Data not available.
• Average Depth: Data not available.
• Volume: Data not available.
• Elevation: High altitude; specific elevation data scarce, but likely in the range of $\approx 2700-2900\text{ m}$ (approx. 8850 – 9514 ft) above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Short, likely rocky.
• Water Source(s): Snowmelt, glacial meltwater, precipitation.
• Outlet(s): Likely a stream connecting to the larger lake or forming headwaters.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Glacial origin (cirque or moraine-dammed) in the high Caucasus mountains (Khojali Range).

Ecological Information:

• Flora (Plant Life): High alpine environment; primarily alpine meadows, rocky terrain, lichens, mosses. Limited vegetation due to altitude and harsh conditions.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Aquatic life expected to be very limited (possibly cold-adapted invertebrates). Fish highly unlikely due to isolation and conditions. Surrounding mountains are potential habitat for high-altitude species like tur, chamois, and mountain birds, though human presence is minimal.
• Trophic Level: Expected to be strongly Oligotrophic (very nutrient-poor).
• Water Clarity: Likely high, though its perceived colour is noted as darker/deeper than the larger lake.
• Water Temperature: Very cold; frozen for the vast majority of the year (likely October through late June/July).
• pH Levels: Data not available; likely near-neutral.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Data not available; likely high due to cold temperatures.
• Unique Ecological Features: Remote, high-altitude lake ecosystem near the ABL. Part of a pair of lakes with differing visual characteristics.
• Conservation Status: No specific protected status known, but located within a fragile high-mountain environment requiring careful stewardship. Proximity to the ABL may implicitly limit access.
• Invasive Species: Extremely unlikely.

Human Interaction and Significance:

• Historical Significance: Known to local Svan hunters or shepherds historically, but likely infrequently visited due to extreme remoteness.
• Current Uses: Destination for highly challenging, multi-day trekking expeditions undertaken by experienced mountaineers/trekkers, often as part of visiting both Okrostskali lakes. Offers extreme wilderness experience and unique views.
• Environmental Issues: Minimal direct human impact due to extreme inaccessibility. Main concerns are the sensitivity of the high-alpine ecosystem to any disturbance and the natural hazards of the terrain.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: No formal management structure apparent. Access is self-limited by difficulty and natural conditions. Awareness of proximity to the ABL is crucial for safety and legal reasons.
• Local Communities: Very limited direct connection due to remoteness. Adventure tourism involving local guides from Svaneti might be the primary link.

Interesting or Unique Facts:

• Name translates to “Little Golden Water Lake”.
• Forms a pair with the larger Didi Okrostsklis Tba, noted for having a different water colour (deeper/more mysterious vs. turquoise).
• Located in a very remote area of Upper Svaneti, near the ABL with Abkhazia, Georgia.
• Access requires extreme trekking skills, navigating difficult terrain and high passes.
• Frozen for most of the year, with a very short accessible season in late summer.
• Offers potential panoramic views, possibly including towards Abkhazia from nearby passes.