Qeleti Lake

Qeleti Lake: The Remote Volcanic Eye of the Keli Plateau

High on the barren, windswept Keli Volcanic Plateau (currently in the occupied territory of South Ossetia), Qeleti Lake is a destination for the most dedicated mountaineers. It is one of several volcanic lakes in this remote, high-altitude region, a sibling to the more famous Qelitsadi. The lake occupies a volcanic caldera, and its deep blue waters create a stunning contrast with the stark, treeless landscape of red and grey scree. Reaching Qeleti is an expedition, a multi-day trek across challenging, unmarked terrain at altitudes exceeding 3,000 meters. The weather is unpredictable and severe, even in the very short summer window when the area is free of snow. For the few who have made the journey, Qeleti represents the ultimate wilderness experience—a glimpse into a primordial, geological landscape that feels utterly removed from the modern world. Currently, it is inaccessible from Georgian-controlled territory.

Identification and Location

• Name: Qeleti Lake (ყელეთის ტბა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia (in the occupied territory of South Ossetia)
  • Region: Shida Kartli
  • Municipality: Java
• Nearest Major Landmark/Area: Keli Volcanic Plateau.
• Coordinates: Approximately 42.4800° N, 44.2500° E.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: A moderately sized alpine lake.
• Elevation Above Sea Level: Extremely high, over 3000 meters.
• Water Source(s): Snowmelt.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Geology of Basin: Volcanic caldera.

Ecological Information

• Flora: The landscape is a high-altitude volcanic desert, almost completely devoid of vegetation.
• Fauna: The extreme conditions do not support fish life.
• Conservation Status: Located in an occupied territory, its status is undetermined.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Part of a remote highland region historically used by shepherds.
• Current Use: Inaccessible for tourism from Georgian-controlled territory.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: No management is possible under the current political situation.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• It is one of the highest lakes in the Caucasus.
• The Keli Volcanic Plateau, where the lake is located, is a unique geological area with numerous volcanic cones and lakes.