Pshav-Khevsureti National Park

Pshav-Khevsureti National Park: Realm of Towers, Legends, and Wilderness

Welcome to Pshav-Khevsureti National Park, a realm of breathtaking beauty and living history nestled in the high mountains of northeastern Georgia. Bordering the Russian Federation (Chechnya), this park is one of the most remote and culturally unique protected areas in the Caucasus. It’s a land where dramatic, glacier-capped peaks and deep river gorges are watched over by ancient stone defensive towers, and where centuries-old traditions are still a part of daily life.

A UNESCO World Heritage Candidate

Established in 2014, Pshav-Khevsureti National Park aims to protect a unique combination of pristine high-mountain ecosystems and an invaluable cultural landscape. The fortress villages of Shatili and Mutso are architectural marvels, representing a historical tradition of community defense and resilience. In recognition of this, Shatili is on the Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage status. The park protects the habitats of iconic Caucasus wildlife, such as the East Caucasian Tur and the Bezoar Goat, which roam the rocky slopes, as well as the subalpine forests and meadows that burst with color in the short summer months.

A Valley of History and Courage

For centuries, the people of Pshav-Khevsureti were renowned as warrior highlanders who guarded Georgia’s northern frontier. Their isolation, enforced by the formidable mountains and the treacherous Datvijvari Pass (approx. 2,700m), which is snow-bound for more than half the year, helped preserve their unique dialect, customs, and pre-Christian beliefs intertwined with Christianity. A journey here is a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has all but vanished elsewhere.

Hiking Through Nature and Culture

The park is a paradise for hikers and adventurers. Marked trails connect historic villages, cross high passes, and lead to stunning natural wonders like the three colorful Abudelauri Lakes. Multi-day treks, such as the route from Shatili to Mutso or the challenging crossing to Tusheti, offer an immersive wilderness experience. Staying in a family-run guesthouse is the best way to experience the legendary hospitality of the Khevsur people and taste their traditional food.

A visit to Pshav-Khevsureti requires careful planning but rewards the intrepid traveler with an unforgettable experience of wild nature, profound history, and a resilient culture, all set against one of the world’s most spectacular mountain backdrops.

Park Overview at a Glance

Official Name:

Pshav-Khevsureti National Park (ფშავ-ხევსურეთის ეროვნული პარკი).

Protected Area Type:

National Park (IUCN Category II). Protects natural ecosystems and cultural landscapes while allowing for compatible tourism and education.

Established:

2014.

Managing Body:

The Agency of Protected Areas (APA) of Georgia.

Getting to Pshav-Khevsureti National Park

Location:

Georgia, Mtskheta-Mtianeti Region, Dusheti Municipality. Located on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, bordering the Russian Federation.

Coordinates:

Approximate center: 42°35′ N Latitude, 45°08′ E Longitude. Maps are available from the APA.

Closest Cities/Towns:

The main gateway villages are Barisakho and Shatili. The nearest major town is Dusheti.

How to Get There:

• By Car/Taxi: The only road access to Shatili is from Tbilisi via the Datvijvari Pass. The journey is ~150 km and takes 4-6 hours. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is essential. The pass is only open from roughly late May/early June to mid-October.
• Public Transport: Infrequent minibusses (marshrutkas) may run to Shatili in the summer, but schedules are unreliable. Hiring a private 4WD taxi is the most common method.

Closest Airport:

Tbilisi International Airport (TBS).

Landscape and Geography

Size:

Approximately 80,013 hectares (800.13 km²).

Topography:

Highly mountainous with deep, narrow gorges (Argun, Andaki), high-altitude plateaus, and glaciated peaks. The landscape features alpine lakes, such as the Abudelauri Lakes. Altitude ranges from 1,400m to over 4,000m.

Geology and Key Features:

Part of the Greater Caucasus range, composed mainly of shale and sandstone. The key features are the unique medieval fortress villages (Shatili, Mutso), defensive towers, glacial lakes, and dramatic mountain passes.

Hydrology:

The headwaters of the Pshavis Aragvi, Argun, and Andaki rivers. The park is rich in fast-flowing mountain rivers, streams, and alpine lakes.

Climate:

Harsh, high-mountain climate. Winters are long, cold, and extremely snowy, leading to the closure of the pass. Summers are short, cool, and often rainy. The weather is unpredictable and can change rapidly.

Why is Pshav-Khevsureti National Park Important?

Reason for Designation:

To protect the unique biodiversity of the high Caucasus ecosystems, preserve the invaluable historical and cultural landscape of Pshav-Khevsureti, and promote sustainable, community-based ecotourism.

Key Values:

An exceptional synthesis of wild nature and living cultural heritage. High biodiversity with numerous endemic species. Unique defensive architecture and ethnographic history. A prime destination for adventure and cultural tourism.

Worldwide Recognition:

• Shatili is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.
• Located in the Caucasus biodiversity hotspot.
• Part of Georgia’s Emerald Network sites.

Flora and Fauna: The Park’s Natural World

Ecosystems and Habitats:

Subalpine forests (mainly birch), rhododendron thickets, vast alpine and subalpine meadows, scree slopes, and rocky cliff ecosystems.

Key Plant Species:

Litvinov’s Birch, Scots Pine, Caucasian Rhododendron, and a huge diversity of alpine wildflowers that create colorful carpets in summer.

Key Animal Species:

• Mammals: East Caucasian Tur, Bezoar Goat (West Caucasian Tur in some sources), Chamois, Brown Bear, Grey Wolf, Eurasian Lynx, Roe Deer, and Wild Boar.
• Birds: Caucasian Snowcock and Caucasian Black Grouse are notable residents. Large raptors include the Bearded Vulture (Lammergeier), Griffon Vulture, and Golden Eagle.

Endangered/Rare Species:

The Bezoar Goat and East Caucasian Tur are of global conservation concern (Near Threatened). The Brown Bear and Lynx are protected under Georgian law. The Persian Leopard is thought to be extirpated but occasional sightings are reported.

Planning Your Visit

Visitor Center:

A visitor center is located in Shatili. Information can also be obtained from the central APA office in Tbilisi. It is crucial to register with rangers upon arrival.

Hours and Seasons:

The park is only accessible during the summer and early autumn (approx. June to mid-October) when the Datvijvari Pass is open.

Entrance Fees and Permits:

Check the APA website for current information. A permit from the Border Police is required for hiking and staying in the border zone (which includes Shatili and Mutso). This must be obtained in advance in Tbilisi or another regional center.

Trails and Routes:

The park has a network of marked and unmarked trails. Popular routes include:

• Shatili-Mutso Trail: A classic day hike between the two main fortress villages.
• Roshka to Abudelauri Lakes: A popular day hike to the three colorful alpine lakes. [Image of Abudelauri colorful lakes Georgia]
• Juta-Roshka via Chaukhi Pass: A challenging but spectacular multi-day trek.

Activities:

Hiking/trekking, horseback riding, cultural tourism (exploring villages and towers), photography, and birdwatching.

Accommodation:

• There are no park-run shelters. Camping is possible at designated or suitable locations.
• Family-run guesthouses are the primary form of accommodation in villages like Shatili, Roshka, and Juta, offering an authentic cultural experience. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Amenities:

Infrastructure is very limited. Guesthouses provide basic amenities. There are very few shops. Mobile phone coverage is extremely limited or non-existent in most areas. Water is available from springs but should be treated.

Safety Advice:

• Be prepared for sudden and severe weather changes. Always carry waterproof and warm clothing.
• The terrain is challenging. Sturdy hiking boots, a map, compass, and GPS are essential.
• Inform someone of your route and expected return time. Register with local rangers.
• Carry all necessary border permits at all times.
• Roads are dangerous; only travel with experienced drivers in 4WD vehicles.

Park Rules and Regulations

Code of Conduct:

Show deep respect for local culture, traditions, and private property. Many sites (shrines or “khati”) have specific rules, some prohibiting entry for women. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Strictly follow Leave No Trace principles.

Prohibitions:

Hunting is illegal. Lighting fires is restricted to designated spots. Do not disturb wildlife or livestock. Do not damage historical structures. Drones likely require a special permit.

Conservation and Management

Managing Body:

The Pshav-Khevsureti National Park Administration, under the APA.

Conservation Efforts:

Focus on biodiversity monitoring, anti-poaching patrols, developing sustainable tourism infrastructure in cooperation with local communities, and preserving cultural monuments.

Threats and Challenges:

Managing the impacts of growing tourism, poaching, maintaining difficult infrastructure, and the potential effects of climate change on the sensitive alpine environment.

Historical and Cultural Significance

A Brief History:

Historically, Khevsureti was a self-governing tribal region that served as a guardian of Georgia’s northern borders. Due to their isolation, the Khevsurs preserved unique medieval customs, laws, and a distinct material culture well into the 20th century. The National Park was created to safeguard this legacy.

Cultural Importance:

Immense cultural value. Shatili and Mutso are masterpieces of vernacular defensive architecture. The region is rich in folklore, poetry (the poetry of Vazha-Pshavela is deeply rooted here), and unique rituals. The traditional Khevsur costume, armor, and weaponry are significant parts of the collection at the Georgian National Museum.

Interesting Facts About Pshav-Khevsureti

Unique Features:

• An unparalleled combination of wild mountain landscapes and a remarkably preserved, living historic culture.
• Famous for its iconic medieval fortress villages, Shatili and Mutso.
• Accessible only in summer via the high-altitude, treacherous Datvijvari Pass.
• Home to the stunningly beautiful, multi-colored Abudelauri Lakes.
• The region served as a historical “shield” province, protecting the Georgian heartland from northern invaders.